What To Do In A Roadside Emergency
With the Fourth of July holiday fast approaching, more cars will be on the road than ever. Heavy travel time, unfortunately, means that more accidents will likely occur. One of the biggest dangers comes from unpredictable stops on a highway. Roadside emergencies can result from a flat tire, running out of gas, or a mechanical breakdown.
Whatever the reason for your roadside emergency, safety needs to be your paramount concern. Follow these tips to help keep you safe during a roadside emergency:
- Pull over to safety: Pull over as close to the side of the road or ditch as possible. Otherwise, you will be at risk of being sideswiped or hit by a passing vehicle. It’s also safest to stay in the car and not get out. If you do have to get out, exit from the passenger side of the vehicle.
- Call for help: If you have an operable cell phone, you should call for help immediately.
- Display distress signals: You should make your vehicle as visible as possible. Hazard lights and flares can help. Any visual apparatus than can help alert approaching motorists that you are on the side of the road will help. You could also raise the hood of your car or tie a white cloth to your antenna.
- Use caution: Lock your doors and wait for help. When strangers approach, exercise caution to evaluate their demeanor. If they appear suspicious, remain in the car with the doors locked and call for help.
Most Tennesseans will have safe travels this summer, but if you run up against some unexpected circumstances, contacting an experienced personal injury attorney and keeping these tips in mind will help you stay safe and get back on the road.