Becoming A Responsible Towing Patron

At some point, most people will experience a vehicle breakdown. Whether close to home or in an unfamiliar area, the fact remains that knowing how to handle a car breakdown is undeniably important. By being aware of both what to do and what not to do in the event that your car breaks down, you can resolve the situation as quickly as possible while keeping yourself safe.

DO Take Precautions to Keep Yourself Safe

First and foremost, you must know what steps to take in order to keep yourself, your passengers, and other motorists safe. Specifically, this means moving your car to the side of the road if possible, increasing your visibility with road flares or cones (especially at night), and raising your vehicle's hood. This will indicate to others on the road that you're experiencing car troubles.

If possible, you should also turn your car's hazard lights on. Be sure to exercise caution any time you go to exit or enter your vehicle as well, especially if you're in a high-traffic area (such as on the shoulder of a freeway).

DO Stay With Your Car and Contact a Towing Company

Furthermore, don't make the mistake of trying to leave your car. Not only is walking along the side of the road dangerous, but you'll want to be at your car in the event that a police officer or state trooper comes by to offer assistance.

The only exception to this would be a situation where you've run out of fuel and are within close walking distance of a gas station. Now would also be a good time to call a local emergency towing company (or to contact your roadside assistance company, if you have one).

DON'T Leave Any Debris at the Scene

Finally, if you end up performing any repairs on the side of the road (such as replacing a flat tire with a spare), make sure you don't leave any debris or old car parts behind. Not only is this disrespectful and bad for the environment, but you could very well be fined if you get caught doing it.

These days, law enforcement agencies (especially state troopers) have been cracking down on instances of littering such as this.

Encountering vehicle problems is never fun, but the good news is that help is only a phone call away. In the meantime, be sure to keep these tips in mind to keep yourself safe and out of trouble. To learn more, or if you have other questions, try contacting a company like Big D Towing.