Waiting for a Tow Truck?

Staying Safe While Waiting For A Tow Truck?

Car breakdowns while on the road is a situation that no driver ever wants to face. It leaves you stranded and exposed to various risks. Luckily, truck towing services can save the day. While this may sound welcoming, the tow truck will take time to arrive. As you wait for assistance, you should take some road safety measures to protect yourself and other road users.

Turn your hazard lights on

This is the first you need to do when you get stranded on the road. It would be best if you made other drivers aware that your vehicle is experiencing an issue. Turning on your hazards:

• makes your car visible
• will alert other road users of your situation
• gives drivers time to slow down or get over

Get off the road

If possible, you should move your vehicle off the road. If you stay on the road, you may cause obstructions and traffic jams. Worse still, other cars may crash into your vehicle if left on the road, especially if you are in a blind spot.

Set up reflective warning signs

It is wise to carry flares, orange cones, or other signs to catch the eye of other drivers. You will want to place these in front and behind your car to warn other road users of your stationary vehicle. These warning signs are especially crucial at night or if you are in a blind spot. Alerting drivers to your presence will help prevent them from crashing into you and you vehicle.

Avoid free rides from strangers

While struck on the road, you may have several people offer you a ride. Even if you are feeling anxious to get help, it is best to be cautious. You are better off waiting with your vehicle, rather than catching a ride into town. Since you have already called for assistance from a towing company, be patient and wait for them.

Don't leave your car unattended

Out of boredom, you may think of taking a walk while waiting for the tow truck. You may also run of patience and decided to seek assistance elsewhere. For example, if the cause of your troubles was running out of fuel or burst tire, you may think of going to the nearest service station to seek help. However, this is not recommended. A police officer may think your car abandoned and leave you a ticket. Someone with malicious intent may try to break into your car or steal it. Also, the tow truck may arrive while you are gone. Therefore, if you have contacted a trusted and reliable company, patiently wait for them to arrive.

Don't panic

Maintaining calmness is probably the most important safety tip to remember while waiting for a tow truck. While this is easier said than done, panicking can make you do things that put you, your car, or other road users at risk. For example, you may panic and hitch a ride from a stranger, which puts you at risk. This also leaves your vehicle unattended. Due to panic, you may fail to observe the necessary safety protocols, such as making your vehicle visible by turning on hazard lights. Just stay calm and remember that help is on the way.

A car breakdown can be frustrating and scary, especially if you are in a remote place. However, observing the above road safety tips can ensure your safety as you wait for your towing company to arrive. If you find yourself in need, we are always a phone call away!