What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway: Stay Safe and Get Help Fast
Breaking down on the highway can be a nerve-wracking experience. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine trouble, or something unexpected, knowing how to handle the situation calmly and safely is key. These steps will guide you on what to do when faced with a highway breakdown, keeping you and your loved ones secure until help arrives. Plus, we’ll explain how Dugger Services can provide the fast and reliable roadside assistance you can count on.
1. Prioritize Safety
The first and most important consideration during a breakdown is your safety and the safety of others on the road. Follow these safety tips to minimize risks:
- Pull Over Safely: Gradually guide your vehicle to the far-right shoulder or an emergency lane. If you’re close to an exit or rest area, aim to pull off the highway completely. Turn on your hazard lights as soon as you notice something is wrong, making yourself visible to other drivers.
- Avoid Sudden Stops: Reduce your speed slowly and steer carefully to avoid sudden movements, which could confuse or startle other drivers.
- Stay in Your Vehicle (If Safe): It’s usually safer to stay inside your vehicle, especially on a busy highway. Keep your seatbelt fastened and lock the doors. If you need to exit, do so on the side away from traffic and maintain a safe distance from moving vehicles.
- Signal for Help: Raising your hood is a universal signal of car trouble. Place reflective triangles or flares behind your vehicle if you have them to increase visibility.
2. Assess the Situation
Once you’ve secured your safety, take a moment to assess the issue.
- Identify the Problem: If it’s safe, try to determine what caused your breakdown. A flat tire, overheating engine, or warning light can help pinpoint the issue. However, avoid attempting repairs on the highway, as it can be extremely dangerous.
- Take Note of Your Location: Look for mile markers, exit signs, or other landmarks to help pinpoint exactly where you are. This information is crucial when calling for help.
3. Call for Help
Getting expert assistance as quickly as possible will make a huge difference during a breakdown.
- Contact Roadside Assistance: If you have a roadside assistance plan, now is the time to call. Dugger Services offers 24/7 emergency roadside assistance, ensuring you’re never stranded without help.
- Call 911 (If Necessary): If you’re in a high-risk situation, such as being stuck in traffic lanes or experiencing a collision, call 911 immediately.
- Provide Accurate Information: When speaking with assistance providers, be ready to share your exact location and describe the problem as clearly as possible. This will help them send the right resources quickly.
4. Managing Children in the Vehicle
Breaking down with children in the car adds another layer of stress, but preparation can help keep everyone calm.
- Reassure and Occupy Your Children: Use calming words to assure them that everything is under control and help is on the way. Keep them occupied with books, toys, or games to distract from the situation.
- Keep Them Secure: Make sure all children remain buckled in their car seats or seatbelts while inside the car or when moving to a safe spot.
- Visibility Is Key: If it’s dark, use a flashlight or your phone’s light to signal your location to other drivers and responders.
- Explain the Situation: Depending on their age, briefly explain what has happened and how roadside assistance will solve the problem.
5. Prepare an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit can make a difficult situation much easier. Having essential items on hand increases your comfort and safety during a breakdown.
Must-Have Items for Your Car Emergency Kit:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Reflective triangles or flares
- Jumper cables
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
- Blanket
- Rain poncho
- Phone charger
Preparing this kit in advance ensures you’re ready for the unexpected. You’ll thank yourself later for taking the time to be proactive!
6. Why Choose Dugger Services for Roadside Assistance?
Having a reliable partner like Dugger Services in your corner can turn a stressful situation into a smooth recovery. Here’s why they’re the best choice for roadside assistance in Arizona and New Mexico:
- 24/7 Availability: Emergencies don’t wait for convenient times. Dugger Services offers 24/7 roadside assistance, so you’re never left stranded no matter when trouble strikes.
- Fast Response Times: Their experienced team understands how important it is to act quickly. They’re dedicated to providing prompt and efficient support to get you back on the road fast.
- Local Expertise: Dugger Services is a family-owned business with deep roots in the community. Their knowledge of local roads, landmarks, and conditions ensures accurate support wherever you are.
- A Family Tradition of Care: With two generations of experience, Dugger Services understands the importance of keeping your family safe during a breakdown.
Stay Safe and Stress-Free with Dugger Services
A highway breakdown doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying calm, prioritizing safety, and relying on a trusted service like Dugger Services, you’ll get back on the road in no time. Keep their number handy, prepare your emergency kit, and remember these tips to handle any highway challenge with confidence.
For dependable 24/7 roadside assistance, contact Dugger Services and experience the peace of mind you deserve.
