No one wants to face a breakdown on a busy road, but it can happen to anyone. Whether you’re commuting, on a road trip, or running errands, being prepared and knowing what to do can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll share practical steps to ensure your safety and manage the situation effectively.
Stay Calm & Pull Over Safely
The first step during a vehicle breakdown is to stay calm. Panicking can lead to rushed decisions, which may put you and others at risk. Instead, focus on safely getting your vehicle out of harm’s way.
- Use your indicators to signal to other drivers that you’re pulling over.
- Steer your vehicle to the shoulder of the road, an emergency lane, or as far off the road as possible.
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your stationary vehicle.
- Apply the parking brake to secure your car.
By acting decisively and calmly, you can minimise the risk of accidents and ensure you’re not blocking traffic unnecessarily.
Prioritise Visibility
Visibility is critical when you’re broken down on a busy road. Other drivers need to see your vehicle clearly to avoid potential collisions. Simple actions can make a big difference in ensuring you’re noticed.
- Keep your hazard lights on at all times.
- Use a reflective warning triangle if you have one, placing it at least 30 metres behind your vehicle.
- Wear a reflective vest or bright-coloured clothing while outside the car if it’s safe.
These steps protect you and alert others to proceed with caution as they pass.
Avoid Standing on the Road
One of the biggest dangers during a breakdown is being too close to passing traffic. Standing on the road or too near your vehicle can put you at significant risk, especially on busy highways or narrow streets.
- Remain inside your car if it’s positioned safely and away from traffic.
- If you must exit the vehicle, move to a safe spot, such as behind a roadside barrier or far away from the roadway.
- Avoid standing near the rear of your vehicle, particularly if traffic is heavy.
Remember, your safety comes first. Stay as far from moving vehicles as possible.
Contact Emergency Services or a Towing Service
Once you’re safely positioned, it’s time to seek help. If your car is inoperable or poses a danger to traffic, contacting a professional towing service is crucial. Mick’s Towing Service Pty Ltd offers reliable emergency towing on the Gold Coast, providing quick assistance.
When contacting help, be prepared to provide:
- Your exact location, using a GPS app or notable landmarks to guide the service.
- A description of your vehicle, including make, model, and colour.
- Details about the issue include smoke, flat tyres, or unusual sounds.
By being clear and precise, you ensure a faster and more efficient response.
Prepare for Future Breakdowns
The best way to handle breakdowns is to prepare for them before they happen. Maintaining an emergency kit in your car and ensuring it’s regularly serviced can save you time and stress.
Include these items in your car’s emergency kit:
- Reflective warning triangles & a vest.
- A fully charged mobile phone & a car charger.
- A basic tool kit, jumper cables, & a flashlight with spare batteries.
- Bottled water, a first-aid kit, & non-perishable snacks.
Additionally, schedule regular maintenance checks to keep your vehicle in optimal condition. Address small issues like low tyre pressure or battery health promptly to prevent them from escalating into bigger problems.
Rely on Us for Emergency Towing on the Gold Coast
Experiencing a vehicle breakdown on a busy road can be stressful and hazardous. At Mick’s Towing Service Pty Ltd, we offer prompt and professional towing services across the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Northern NSW. Contact us for more information or to request our expert towing services on the Gold Coast. Stay safe, and let us handle the rest!
