What Should You Do if You Find Yourself Stranded on the Side of the Road?

Safely Handling Waiting on the Side of the Road

No one wants to deal with the thought of being stuck on the side of the road. Whether it’s due to running out of fuel, a vehicle malfunction, an accident or inclement weather, it is always good to have a plan of action in case such a problem arises. Mike Ward Maserati near Denver, CO, would like to share with you great advice that we have found useful in our planning for these situations. Even if we hope to never have to use these tips, having a set plan is important to safe vehicle operation all year long in Colorado. 

What To Do If You Find Yourself Stranded

Know the Route – Before you set out on the road, take the time to understand the route you will be taking to your destination. Regardless of if it’s a routine trip for you, or going to a completely new location, taking a moment before you leave will make it easier to relay proper information to personnel if required. 

Pull Over If Possible – Potential trouble on the road like an overheating engine or tire issue can often be sudden. In any instance where the vehicle is becoming too dangerous to drive or experiencing a failure, always pull off the road as far as you can go. This will allow you and the appropriate personnel to safely navigate around your vehicle and not inhibit traffic. Also, engaging your vehicle’s hazard lights is advisable as this will alert other drivers to an issue. 

Don’t Exit Driver Side Doors – Even if you have managed to get your vehicle significantly away from traffic, it is not advised to have anyone exit through driver side doors. Use passenger side doors to safely exit the vehicle as you will be walking away from the busy roadway. 

Contact Assistance – After you have safely gotten you and your vehicle out of traffic, take a moment to assess the situation. Afterward, make sure to contact whatever emergency personnel is required to handle the situation. Whether it’s a tow truck or an ambulance, making these calls your priority is a smart idea. Make sure that the responders are given as detailed information as possible. Things such as street names, noteworthy landmarks, and anything else that can help pinpoint your location quickly will help everyone involved. 

Wait – If it is not dangerous to do so, stay in your vehicle until the appropriate assistance arrives.  Make sure to keep everyone in their seat belts or car seats while waiting. It is advised to keep your doors locked until the emergency response reaches your location. If it is preferable to exit the vehicle, always move away from the vehicle and traffic.  Do not ever stand behind or in front of the vehicle!  If you have a roadside emergency kit prepared, this will make the period between contacting assistance until they arrive much less stressful for everyone in the vehicle.  If you must wait outside the vehicle, never do so behind the car.  

(Photo Credit: iStock)