No one wants to be driving down the highway and have their car break down. Unfortunately, this does happen, and when it does, it requires pulling off to the side of the road and arranging to have the vehicle towed to an auto repair shop so it can be fixed. While being in this type of situation is frustrating, it is important to react properly when you need to have your car towed. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when they are upset and sitting on the side of the road. If you need to have your car towed after it breaks down, avoid these common errors:
Failing to Make Other Drivers Aware of Your Vehicle
Even if you're able to get your vehicle over to the side of the highway, you still need to make sure that other drivers are aware that your car is on the side of the road, both for your safety and the safety of others on the road. Once you are on the side of the road, immediately turn on your hazard lights. Some drivers have flares or reflective triangular warning signs in their trunk—if you have either of these things, carefully place them behind your vehicle. In addition to keeping the situation safer, making your vehicle more visible will also help the tow truck driver locate you.
Getting Out of Your Vehicle
One of the most common errors that people make when their vehicle breaks down on the side of the highway is getting out of their automobile to wait for the tow truck. While this may be your first instinct, the side of a highway is a very dangerous place for a pedestrian. You are much safer staying inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on. The only time you should leave your vehicle is if there is smoke or the vehicle catches fire.
Leaving Personal Belongings in the Car
When you need to have your vehicle towed to an auto repair shop, you should never leave your personal belongings inside the car. Tow truck companies typically do not take any responsibility for personal belongings, nor do auto repair shops. Thus, if you leave your personal belongings in the vehicle and they are lost or damaged, you will be out of luck. Once the tow truck driver arrives, take the time to collect all of your belongings before exiting the vehicle.
For more information about towing your car after it's broken down, contact a local towing company.
Share8 October 2020
When planning a road trip, there are several things to plan for. Not only do you have to worry about where you are going, but you have to consider everything along the way. Who would you call if the car was to break down along the road? What if you got a flat tire and couldn't get the tire off of the car? Planning for these emergencies can take some of the stress off of things as they happen. Visit my blog to find out what you should do before leaving your home to ensure that you are prepared for all of the roadside emergencies you could face.