99TravelSafe.com
17 - If Your Car Breaks Down
The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
IF possible always try to drive your car to a safe place, out of the way of other traffic, but a well lit spot.
Turn your wheels away from the road and put on the emergency brakes
Switch on the hazard lights and lift the bonnet to indicate that you have broken down.
Call for assistance from a garage, nearby pay phone or using a mobile, never 'hitch a lift'. If you are unable to get any help, call the police.
Switch on your hazard lights and if it's dark or the light is bad, keep your side lights on, pulling over as far to the side as possible.
Leave your car by the passenger door and wait well away from the carriageway, not forward of the vehicle.
If staying in the car is unavoidable, wait in the passenger seat so that other drivers will assume the driver has gone to a telephone.
When you've made contact give as many details as possible i.e. your location, car make and registration, try to describe what the fault is. If you are stuck in a remote area or feel in danger make sure to let them know.
Do not under any circumstances open the door to strangers.
If someone stops offering help, communicate with them through closed windows. Only open the door to someone you know and trust, or who has shown you identification.
If you are NOT in a secure area it is best to leave the automobile and head to a secure area to contact a roadside assistance provider or other help. Use your mobile phone.