What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down On Road

Driving along the road and having your car break down can be a very scary experience. Many drivers don't know what they should do if this happens, but you should always be prepared, no matter how short your regular commute and driving route is. I myself had a highway breakdown last year where my older car lost electrical power during the evening rush. I was able to safely pull over onto the shoulder and wait for a tow truck, but couldn't turn on my hazard lights due to the electrical issue.

The National Safety Council (www.nsc.org) has some tips that can help if your car breaks down on the highway.

If you start to experience trouble, slowly and carefully take your foot off the accelerator. Carefully try to get your vehicle to the breakdown lane or the side of the road. If you're on the interstate, try to reach the nearest exit. Make sure to signal to the drivers around you what you're intending to do and watch your mirrors closely.
Once you're safely off the road, make sure your car is visible to those around you. Put reflectorized triangles behind your car, use your hazard signals and if it's dark, turn on your cabin dome light.
If you have a tire that needs to be changed, make sure you can do it safely and away from traffic. No schedule concerns or the like should take precedence over being able to do things safely.
If the car is beyond repair, you will need professional help. Don't try to flag down other vehicles. Call your service provider from your cell phone if possible. Raise up your hood to let people know that are in need of assistance. Tie something white to your radio antenna or hold it out the window to let police officers or tow truck drivers know that you're in need of assistance. Do not stand behind, or next to your vehicle. If the car is in the roadway, stand completely away from it until help arrives.
If the car is safely away from traffic, wait inside the vehicle with the doors locked for help to arrive. Use your phone to call for assistance. If someone walks up and offers to help, crack the window and ask them to call the police for you.
Look for unformed police officers or other emergency personnel. All interstate highways and major roads will be patrolled regularly. Some highways may even have "call-for-help" phones.
It's not advisable to walk on an interstate, especially in inclement weather. However, if you can reach a source of help on foot without jeopardizing your safety, try to walk there. Keep away from traffic and walk on the right side of the road. Never, ever attempt to cross a multi-lane, high speed highway.

What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down On the Highway