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| Photo: Crash Services |
It can happen to anyone. You’re in your car, driving along,
minding your own business, maybe singing along to the radio, when suddenly your
car makes a funny noise and stops. Or you hit something and get a flat tire.
Do you know what to do?
Move your car to the shoulder of the road or a safe location
out of the flow of traffic if you can, especially if you’re on a highway. If your car dies right in the middle of the
road, stay in the vehicle.
If this happens during the day, put on your emergency
blinkers (4-ways) to alert other drivers that you’re having car trouble. If it’s
at night, open the door not facing traffic so your interior overhead light comes
on.
If your tire is flat, don’t try to change it unless you’re in
a safe location and the flat tire is on the side away from traffic.
Call for emergency assistance. If you belong to AAA or
another motor club, give them a call and they can send a tow truck. They’ll ask
your location and what’s wrong with your vehicle, so if it’s something other
than a flat tire, try to pinpoint the problem before calling.
You should have an emergency kit in your car for times like
these—breakdowns can happen to anyone, at any time, so it’s always good to be
prepared. According to the DMV’s website, an emergency kit should include:
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher (ideally a small one that's easy to store)
- Road flares (if not already in your tire-changing tools)
- Jumper cables
- Rain ponchos
- Tarp
- Flashlight and extra batteries.
- Rags
- Duct tape
- Scent-free baby wipes
- Drinking water and non-perishable snacks.
- Multipurpose tool
A breakdown can be a harrowing experience, but if you stay calm, put safety first (yours as well as your passengers'), and follow the steps above, you'll make it through the incident just fine.
Would you add any other tips to the list? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
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