A car breakdown can turn a good day into a challenging one in very little time. Although breakdowns typically happen unexpectedly, you can still be prepared so that you don’t have to panic. If you keep the following steps in mind the next time you experience a breakdown, you’ll be able to safely and efficiently get your car back on the road.

Get Out of Traffic

When your car breaks down, the most important first step is to try to get out of the flow of traffic. Make sure to pull fully into the shoulder of the road so that other cars don’t run into you. If your car won’t move at all on its own, you may have to push it in the right direction. This is much easier when you have help from several other people.

Turn Your Hazard Lights On

At the first sign of trouble, you’ll want to immediately reach for your vehicle’s hazard lights. This alerts other vehicles that you plan to slow down soon so that you reduce your risk of being rear-ended. You don’t want to lose your lights when you need them most. So it’s a good idea to test them from time to time before you hit the road.

Take Time to Assess

After you turn on your hazard lights, you’ll want to get your vehicle to the side of the road. Get as far off the road as possible without putting yourself at risk of going over an embankment. Once you’re safely stopped, take a few moments to assess your situation to determine what type of assistance you’ll need to get yourself safely to your destination.

Know Who to Call

In many cases, you’ll need a professional towing service to assist you when you have a breakdown. To ensure that you can make the necessary calls, you’ll want to be sure that your phone has sufficient charge any time you leave your home. In addition to a tow truck, you might also want to call a trusted friend or relative. They can offer additional advice and support if needed. 

Stay With Your Car

Except in rare cases, it’s best to stay with your car until you’re sure that it’s safely on its way to the mechanic. Staying with your car will help prevent any potential theft that could take place on the side of the road. Additionally, if you’re in an unfamiliar area, staying in your car will prevent you from getting lost.

Carry Some Supplies

To further ease the burden of a car breakdown, it’s always a good idea to carry some emergency supplies. While you hopefully won’t need emergency supplies, you’ll be glad that you have them if you do run into a problem. These supplies can include an emergency blanket, road flares, a first aid kit, and other items. With these supplies and the confidence that comes from being prepared, you’ll be ready to face any problem that you might face while on the road.

No one wants to deal with a breakdown, but there are several steps you can take to prepare yourself for the worst-case scenario. You’ll be thanking yourself should a breakdown situation arise. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your safety on the road.