Getting stuck in the middle of the road with a broken-down car is an unpleasant experience. It’s even more stressful if it happens late at night or in an unfamiliar place. But don’t panic, there are some steps you can take to ensure your safety and get back on the road quickly. Although situations like these can be stressful, these steps can help you stay safe and get help quickly.
Try and Move the Vehicle off the Road
This is the first step if you’re stranded on the side of the road. If it’s safe to do so, indicated and try to move your car off the road and onto a shoulder or parking lot nearby. This will help make sure that other drivers can safely pass by your vehicle and reduce any potential traffic hazards. Furthermore, transporting your car or caravan to a nearby parking lot or roadside rest area will provide more space for you to work on the vehicle in a safer environment. Again, be sure to only move the car if it is safe to do so.
Turn Your Hazard Lights On
Once you have safely moved your car off the road, turn on your hazard lights. This will signal to other drivers that there is an issue with your vehicle and they should proceed cautiously. Also, leave a warning triangle or reflector behind to continue signalling the issue to other drivers on the road. The hazard lights can also be used to signal for help if you are in a remote area or there is no nearby telephone. If your car stops on a UK motorway, do not put out a warning triangle or attempt repairs as passing traffic may collide with your vehicle.
Raise the Hood to Signal That you Need Help and Contact Road Assistance
Raising the hood of your car is an internationally recognized sign to signal that you need help. If you are unable to move the car off the road and/or there is not a nearby parking area, raising your hood will signal other drivers that assistance is required. Furthermore, it’s important to contact roadside assistance or a tow service as quickly as possible. They will be able to provide the necessary assistance and help you get back on the road quickly. On a UK Motorway, it’s not safe for other vehicles to stop and help. Instead, call National Highways on 0300 123 5000 or 999 for assistance.
Stay in Your Car and Make Sure All Doors are Locked While Waiting for Help
Once you have safely moved your car off the road and contacted roadside assistance, it’s important to remain inside your vehicle until help arrives. Make sure all doors are locked while waiting for help or a tow truck. This will ensure that you are safe and secure in case another driver tries to approach your car or if there is an issue with the tow truck. If you’re on a UK motorway, if it is safe to leave the car, only do so on the side furthest from the traffic. Get behind the safety barrier and keep away from moving traffic.
Avoid Getting Out of the Car If Possible, as This May Be Unsafe
Finally, it is important to avoid getting out of the car if possible. Exiting your vehicle may be unsafe if there are other drivers nearby or if you are stranded in an unfamiliar area. It’s best to remain inside your vehicle and wait for help. More so, keep your doors locked and have all the necessary documents with you in the car. In the event of a roadside emergency, it’s important to remain calm, follow these steps, and contact roadside assistance as quickly as possible. This will help ensure your safety and get you back on the road quickly.
Getting stuck in the middle of the road with a broken-down car can be an unpleasant experience. But by following these steps, you can ensure your safety and get back on the road quickly. Try to move the vehicle off the road if it is safe to do so, turn on your hazard lights, raise your hood to signal that you need help, and contact National Highways, roadside assistance or emergency services as soon as possible. Additionally, remain inside your car with the doors locked while waiting for help, and avoid getting out of the car if it is not safe to do so. By following these steps, you can get back on the road quickly and safely.
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