Winter Breakdowns

One of the most aggravating things all drivers experience is a major, mind-melting, traffic-halting breakdown — and it’s only made worse by snow, slush, and cold. In your frustration to call a tow truck and get out of the way of other cars, though, you may not be thinking clearly enough to respond safely. The National Safety Council recommends the following to keep you safe when your car breaks down:

Get off the road – safely. Move to the right shoulder, out of the way of oncoming traffic. If you’re unable to exit the road, keep as far to the right as you can and stay in the vehicle.

Warn other drivers. If it’s safe to leave your vehicle, get out reflective triangles or flares and place them behind the vehicle. Raise the hood, too, to let other drivers know your car is disabled.

Get help. Don’t take a ride with another motorist – ask them to call or contact someone at the next exit. If it’s safe to walk along the side of the road, start moving.

Join an automobile club. Most clubs give you peace of mind by covering expenses for tows and road service calls. Some even allow you to select the garage or repair shop you’d like to use. But before you join a club, check your owner’s manual – your car company may already provide free or expedited tow services, complete with its own toll-free phone number.