What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down
A harsh truth that all vehicle owners have to come to terms with is that no matter how well you take care of your car, Jeep, truck, or motorcycle, it’s going to break down right when you don’t want it to. Flat tires, cracked radiator, alternator, battery, muffler: you name it, eventually, after enough use, these parts will wear out. If you’re lucky, you won’t be on any dangerous roads or facing harsh weather when your car breaks down. However, no matter the situation, we’ve compiled a list of six tips for staying safe if your car breaks down.
Move your vehicle to the side or off the road
Ever see a car stranded in the middle of the street? Not only does it congest traffic, but it’s also incredibly dangerous for you and your passengers as cars pass you on both sides. Move your vehicle as far to the side of the road as possible to avoid any further damage, such as a sideswipe collision.
Call for help
Contact the police or OPP to help you move your car if you’re unable to do so. They’re there to help and can assist by pushing your vehicle with theirs, offering assistance, and more.
Contact roadside assistance
If your car won’t operate any longer, say because the radiator cracked, you’ll need a tow. Contact your insurance agency to see if they have any roadside assistance offers available to help you or contact AAA if you have a membership.
Get on the other side of the barrier if you’ve broken down on a highway
It may take some time for help to arrive, so it’s best to get yourself safe. At any time other than winter, it’s best to get on the other side of the barrier on the highway to avoid any potential accidents. People drive distracted and may crash into your vehicle. However, if your vehicle does break down this winter, stay inside your car and make sure to pack blankets in case the car won’t turn on and the heat won’t work.
Stay with your vehicle
Oddly enough, some people will just leave their car and go elsewhere to try and find help. It’s best to stay with your car so that you don’t get lost or stranded while you’re walking.
Use road flares and reflective gear
Always keep these handy in your vehicle to alert other drivers that your car isn’t running properly and to avoid it. Additionally, it helps police and roadside assistance to find you quicker and easier.
A car breaking down can be an annoyance at a minimum. Following this simple guide will keep you and your family safe if you run into an issue while on the road. If your car breaks down and you can’t repair it, contact our Dodge dealership in Ontario to see our full lineup of Dodges, Jeeps, and Chrysler vehicles. In order to minimize future breakdowns and save yourself some trouble, choose vehicles from our trustworthy dealership – we’ll be happy to find the right new vehicle for you!