What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down: A 90-Second Safety Checklist
Hey there, readers! Imagine you’re driving down the road, and suddenly your car comes to a halt. It’s a nerve-wracking situation, right? Well, every second counts in such moments, and that’s why we’ve put together a quick checklist of what to do in the first 90 seconds when your car breaks down or you’re in an accident.
Safety Tip #1: Turn on Hazard Lights (0 seconds): The moment you realize your car is in trouble, don’t wait – turn on your hazard lights. These are the blinking lights that tell other drivers that something’s wrong with your vehicle.
Safety Tip #2: Find a Safe Spot (15 seconds): If it’s safe to do so, steer your car to the safest location away from moving traffic. Think about the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot.
Safety Tip #3: Be Visible (30 seconds): Visibility is crucial. If you have one, set up a reflective triangle or any warning sign behind your car. This helps other drivers notice you better, reducing the risk of accidents.
Safety Tip #4: Stay Calm and Call for Help (45 seconds): Take a deep breath and stay calm. Use your phone to call for help – whether it’s a friend, family member, or roadside assistance. If you’ve got roadside assistance coverage, you can find the number on your insurance card. They’ll know what to do.
Safety Tip #5: Exit Safely (60 seconds): If it’s safe to get out of your car, do so from the passenger side. Stand a good distance away from the road. However, if it’s not safe, stay inside your car with your seatbelt securely fastened.
Safety Tip #6: Document the Scene (75 seconds): Take out your phone and snap photos if you can. These pictures could be valuable later, especially if there’s any damage to your car or if you need to show what happened. This step is particularly important if you’ve been in an accident.
Safety Tip #7: Be Prepared Always be prepared for unexpected situations. Keep an emergency kit in your car stocked with water, snacks, a flashlight, some first-aid supplies, and blankets. If you live in a snowy area like Ohio, consider adding a bag of sand and a shovel for those wintry months.
Conclusion: Remember, folks, when your car breaks down or you find yourself in an accident, following these steps can keep you and others safe. Remember, cars can be fixed, but lives are irreplaceable. So, always prioritize safety first, and you’ll be in good hands. Drive safely!