A car breakdown is a fairly common occurrence and can happen to any of us at the most unexpected time. You cannot also predict where this happens. Before you know it, your vehicle breaks down in the middle of nowhere in the middle of the night.
In situations like this, some people end up making unwise decisions that can possibly expose them to more danger. With that said, it is just right that you educate yourself with basic knowledge on how to survive a car breakdown. That way, you’ll know what to do when this happens to you.
Car Breakdown Survival 101
Have an emergency roadside kit ready
Just like what they say–it’s better to come prepared than sorry. Before a breakdown happens, make sure that you’ll have a way to straighten out the situation the best you could. You can do this by having an emergency roadside kit in your trunk. Inside this kit are all the necessary tools and equipment you may need to fix your car yourself or just help you survive while waiting for roadside assistance.
There are pre-assembled emergency roadside kits available in most hardware stores, but you can also find a lot online. You can also add more tools to your kit to ensure that you got everything you may need during a breakdown.
Here are some of the most important items that your emergency roadside kit must have:
-
first aid kit (including isopropyl alcohol, bandages, cotton swabs, tweezer, etc.)
-
toolkit (including screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches, etc)
-
non-perishable food
-
drinking water
-
blankets
-
flashlights
-
road flares
-
reflective triangles
-
tire gauge
-
engine coolant
-
mobile battery pack
-
motor oil
Get out of harm’s way, but stay visible
The first thing you should do when your car breaks down in the middle of the road is always pulling it over to a safer side of the road or the highway. Make other drivers aware of your situation by turning on your hazard lights or setting up the reflective triangles you have in your emergency roadside kit.
Another thing to remember is that if the incident happens at night, try your best to keep your car visible. This gives a better opportunity for passing patrols and other motorists to notice your situation and hopefully offer you some assistance.
You can maintain your visibility by turning your headlights and interior lights on. Do this while your vehicle is running, so your battery won’t get drained.
Call for professional help
Even though you have a toolkit and car repair essentials in your trunk, there are certain issues that only trained and licensed mechanics can fix. That’s why it is advisable to call for roadside assistance immediately when your car breaks down. Depending on your situation, your roadside assistance company will either send mechanics to your location or have your vehicle towed to their shop.
If you are traveling and are not familiar with any roadside assistance company in the area, you can just simply make a quick Google search to see the list of companies that can potentially service your vehicle.
Be Prepared for Car Breakdowns and Stay Safe
A car breakdown can happen to you at any time. Better it hits you on the face, make sure that you are well-informed on what to do during situations like this. Car breakdowns are already pretty stressful. Don’t make the matters worse by making foolish decisions. Make sure that you are prepared and stay calm, so you’ll remain safe.
