If your car breaks down on the road, the first and foremost priority should be to ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers. If possible, pull over to a safe location, such as the side of the road or onto the shoulder, and turn on your hazard lights. Stay inside the car, if possible, and if you must get out, wear a reflective vest and stand away from the road, behind a guardrail or ditch.
Call for help by using a cell phone, flagging down a passerby or using an emergency call box on the highway. If you have a road service or emergency roadside assistance plan, be sure to utilize it. Make yourself visible by placing road flares or warning triangles around the car, especially if it’s dark or visibility is poor. Avoid accepting rides from strangers, and keep a charged cell phone and a car emergency kit in your car to prepare for future breakdowns.
How can I tell if my car breaks down on the road?
Pay attention to your car’s behaviour and address any issues as soon as possible to avoid a car breaks down on the road. Here are some other signs to look out for:
- Vibrations: If you feel excessive vibrations while driving, it could indicate a problem with the wheels, tires, or engine.
- Fluid leaks: If you notice fluid leaks under your car, it may indicate a problem with the engine or transmission.
- Uneven tire wear: If you notice uneven tire wear, it may indicate a problem with the suspension system or wheel alignment.
- Unusual smells from the exhaust: If you smell gasoline or oil fumes coming from the exhaust, it may indicate a problem with the engine.
- Squeaking or rattling belts: If you hear squeaking or rattling from the belts under the hood, it may indicate a worn or loose belt, which can lead to engine problems.
- Excessive smoke: If you see excessive smoke coming from the exhaust, it may indicate a problem with the engine or oil system.
By being vigilant and aware of these signs, you can prevent a car breaks down on the road and ensure that your car is running smoothly.
What steps can I take to minimize safety risks if my car breaks down on the road?
If you find yourself stranded on the road due to car trouble, it’s crucial to take proactive measures to ensure your safety. To make your situation unique, here are some additional steps you can take:
- Check for visible problems: Before calling for help, inspect your car for any visible issues. If you find a flat tire, check if you have a spare and the tools necessary to change it.
- Gather information: If you need to call for help, have the make, model, and license plate number of your car ready, as well as your location and the nature of the problem.
- Stay calm: In a stressful situation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Try to stay calm and think logically about your next steps.
- Consider alternative modes of transportation: If your car is inoperable and you are unable to wait for a tow truck, consider alternative modes of transportation, such as a taxi, public transportation, or a rideshare service.
How can I stay safe if my car breaks down on the road?
Here are the steps to stay safe if your car breaks down on the road:
- Pull off the road to a safe location, such as the shoulder if possible.
- Turn on your hazard lights to signal other drivers of your situation.
- Set up a warning sign, such as a triangle reflector, to alert other drivers.
- If you are unable to move the car off the main road, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck.
- If you are able to exit the vehicle, remain in a safe place away from the car until help arrives.
- Keep a charged cell phone with you in case you need to call for help.
- Be cautious of other drivers and traffic when exiting your car.
- Stay visible to other drivers and avoid standing in the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What to do if car breaks down on highway in India?Â
Ans: If your vehicle breaks down on a highway in India, the first and foremost priority is to ensure the safety of all passengers in the car. Find a secure location to park the vehicle and turn on the hazard lights or place a warning sign to alert other drivers of the situation. Try to move the car to a safer spot off the main road. If the car cannot be moved, call for assistance from your roadside provider or a reputable tow truck service to have the car transported to a repair facility.
Q2. What to do with the broken down car?Â
Ans: In the event of a car breakdown on the road in India, after ensuring the safety of yourself and your passengers, the next step is to find a secure location to park the vehicle. Turn on the hazard lights or place a warning sign to signal other drivers of your situation. If it’s feasible, try to move the car to a safer location away from the road. If not, reach out to your emergency road service provider or call a tow truck to have your car transported to a repair shop.
Upon arrival at the shop, a thorough assessment of the damage should be conducted to determine the necessary repairs. If the problem requires expert attention, seek the help of a reputable mechanic. In cases where the damage is beyond repair, it is important to have the car disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner.
Q3. Can you leave a broken down car on the street?Â
Ans: No, it is not advisable to leave a broken down car on the street. Leaving a car unattended on the street can be a hazard to other drivers and a potential target for theft or vandalism. Additionally, it is illegal to leave a car unattended on the street in many cities.
Q4. How can I stay safe if my car breaks down on the road?Â
Ans: If your car car breaks down on the road, the first priority is to ensure the safety of all passengers. Pull off the road and onto the shoulder if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and set up a warning sign to alert other drivers. If you are unable to move the car off the main road, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck. If you are able to exit the vehicle, remain in a safe place away from the car until help arrives.