If you drive long enough, it is only natural that you will have to deal with at least one roadside emergency. You will discover that most drivers have been stranded on the side of the roadside at some point in their life. Since this is practically inevitable, you will need a game plan to counteract this risk.
If you aren’t entirely sure how to equip yourself, however, there’s no need to be concerned. The following article will give you a comprehensive introduction to the subject. So, here is what you need to know to deal with virtually any roadside emergency:
Know Your Emergency Numbers
You should know exactly who you can call during a roadside emergency. This way, you will be able to reach out for help without too much of an issue. However, don’t just store these numbers on your phone.
Instead, make sure that you have these written down and stored in your car. This will act as a failsafe if your phone stops working or runs out of battery. Then, you will still be able to reach all the necessary individuals regardless of where you are.
Always Have an Emergency Kit
One of the reasons that people panic when they have to deal with a breakdown is because they worry about being stranded. And, depending on where you are, this can be a concern. After all, several breakdowns do take place in remote areas.
Due to this, it is a good idea to have an emergency kit to encourage yourself that you will be fine. Such a kit can contain dry rations as food, several bottles of water, blankets, a first-aid kit, and anything else that you may think that you need.
Considering that this is the digital age, it is a good idea to stock up on some other items as well. This could include a USB phone charger or even personal locator beacons. With these, you can continue to be in touch with anyone that you need to.
Make Yourself Visible
It is easy enough to think that other drivers will be able to spot an enormous hunk of metal on the roadside. However, you will be surprised to learn just how difficult your vehicle can be to spot. At nighttime, other drivers may find it even trickier to see you.
Needless to say, this can put you at a disadvantage. If people can’t see you, they won’t be able to take the proper precautions to avoid hitting your car. Not to mention, it can be difficult to flag other people down if you need assistance.
Thus, one of your first instincts should be to make your vehicle as visible as possible. Emergency LED lights can go a long way in helping you to do this. They are often more effective than old-fashioned luminous triangles.
Make sure to place these lights several feet behind, in front of, and to the side of your vehicle. If you can make your way to the roof of the car, place one on top as well. This light will make it easier for other drivers to spot you from a greater distance.
Now, there is a chance that you may need to leave your vehicle and work on some repairs. Due to this, you should try to make yourself more visible as well. Consider stashing some light-reflecting vests in your car. This will drastically reduce your chance of getting hit by other drivers.
Stock Up on Necessary Supplies and Tools
Most drivers don’t bother with keeping too many tools in their car. This is often because they don’t know how to handle most roadside emergencies that occur. Now, this is fair enough. After all, you can’t be expected to have the same knowledge and experience as a mechanic.
Despite this, there are a few issues that you should be able to manage by yourself. For instance, you can certainly fix a flat tire by yourself. So, you should stock up on the necessary tools such as a spare tire, jack, tools to remove nuts and bolts, or a tire repair kit.
Another common occurrence is a dead car battery. Such a problem can be especially tiring because it requires the help of another individual. The good news for you is that car battery chargers take the hassle out of this kind of problem. Keep one of these in your car and you will be able to provide your vehicle a jumpstart all by yourself.
The exact tools that you should keep in your car should depend on your capabilities. In case you do have extensive knowledge and skills, then stock up on more tools. This way, you may be able to handle the problem by yourself and get on the move again.
Stay With Your Vehicle
If you are in the middle of nowhere, it can be tempting to leave your vehicle and look for help. However, it is far better to stay with your vehicle. If your vehicle has broken down, you should safely exit the vehicle. This means making sure that the car is in the park position.
Then, you (and your family) should exit the vehicle from a door that is away from the oncoming traffic. If you are traveling with any pets, keep them in the vehicle. Make sure that you and the other passengers stay on the side of the road.
In the event of extreme weather, it may be safer for you to stay in your vehicle. Put on your hazard lights and make sure that everyone is wearing their seatbelt. Contact the required emergency services immediately.
These are the top tips for dealing with a roadside emergency. Although it can seem that this may not be a problem that you will face, you can’t be certain. As such, it is far better to be prepared to deal with a situation like this. You will then be able to extricate yourself from the problem with the greatest of ease. This will keep you and your family a great deal safer.
