What To Do When Your Car Breaks Down
Highlights
- Performing self-repair can further damage the car
- IF something is wrong immediately pull over to the side of the road.
- You should remember and abide by one thing - do not leave your vehicle!
One of the most challenging situations for a driver is a car break down in the middle of the road. As a car owner, you should prepare yourself for such a situation.
Knowing the proper steps to handle a car breakdown can help you be proactive at the scene. We've compiled a guide on what to do when your car breaks down. So, read ahead and be a responsible car owner!
Try to Get Your Vehicle Off the Road
A car breakdown often leaves you stranded in the middle of the road. However, you might still be able to move your car for a bit. Whenever you sense a breakdown, immediately pull over to the side of the road. Additionally, alert the other companions in the car about the situation.
Call for Help
Once your car has been moved to a safe location off the road, place a call to road assistance or the dedicated helpline. You can also take the help of a local mechanic. These days, most auto brands offer roadside assistance. Also, make sure that you have the emergency numbers handy for situations like these.
Signal Passing By Vehicles
If you cannot reach out to road assistance, you can signal other drivers and ask for help. Even if support is on the way, you still have to alert other drivers if your vehicle is halted in the middle of the way. You can alert the drivers by:
- Putting flares, reflectors, flags
- Popping the hood of your vehicle
- Turning on the hazard lights
Don't Leave Your Vehicle
If you ever face a car breakdown, you should remember and abide by one thing - do not leave your vehicle! During a car breakdown, do not make the mistake of leaving the car to seek help or for any other reasons. The safest option for you is to remain in the car till help arrives.
Refrain From Performing Self-Repairs
Most people are tempted to take a DIY approach when struggling with a car breakdown. Remember that you should leave the car repair to the professionals. Performing self-repair can further damage the car and result in higher repair bills. So, unless you have some experience, we suggest you refrain from trying to self-repair.
Assess the Situation
Instead of jumping out of the car to seek help or trying to self-repair, you should assess the situation. You should enlist all your options and keep yourself calm in the case. If anyone is hurt, try to address the injury until help arrives. Meaningfully assessing the situation can help you convey the problem to the professional better.
To avoid such a situation, make sure you take your vehicle for regular maintenance and servicing!