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SAFETY FIRST: WHAT TO DO WHEN WAITING FOR A TOW TRUCK
Admin • Mar 08, 2018
An unexpected breakdown can catch anyone off guard. Fortunately, you can always call for a tow truck to transport your vehicle to the nearest shop. In the meantime, it'll take some time for your tow truck to arrive. To keep yourself and fellow passengers safe, here are a few things you should do while you wait.
MOVE OFF THE ROAD
Move your vehicle out of traffic's way if it's possible to do so. If your vehicle can safely move under its own power, then pull over onto the shoulder of the road or into a nearby parking lot. Be wary of soft shoulders or steep drop-offs when pulling over to the side of the road.
If you choose to pull into a parking lot, then make sure it's relatively busy and well-lit. Busy restaurants and shopping centers are prime candidates for a safe place to pull over. Don't forget to leave plenty of space for the tow truck driver to safely hook or load your vehicle.
If your vehicle can't move under its own power, then you may still be able to push it over to the side of the road. You'll need an extra set of hands to help, either to push the vehicle or steer it toward a safe spot. Be aware of traffic and pick a safe moment to move the vehicle.
MAKE YOUR VEHICLE VISIBLE
Turn on your car's hazard lights so other drivers will be able to see your vehicle. On most cars, you can find the hazard lights button on the top center half of the dashboard. Other cars may have this button on the top or side of the steering column.
If you have an emergency roadside kit, then there's a good chance that you'll have reflective triangles or road flares on hand. Placement of these warning devices will depend on the type of road you're on. For example, if you're on a two-lane road, then place one flare or triangle four paces away from the vehicle on the traffic side of the shoulder and place the remaining devices 40 paces ahead of and behind the vehicle.
REMAIN IN YOUR VEHICLE
As a general safety precaution, you should stay in your vehicle while waiting for a tow truck to arrive. Your vehicle is usually the safest place to be, especially if you're immobilized with no way to pull over. The only exception is if your vehicle is leaking fuel or smoldering.
If you need to leave your vehicle, exit through the passenger side when traffic is clear and walk a safe distance away from the side of the road. Some roadside kits come with a high-visibility jacket you can wear to make yourself easily seen while waiting outside of your vehicle.
REFRAIN FROM ACCEPTING RIDES
Not everyone is a Good Samaritan, and it's not uncommon for those with bad intentions to take advantage of motorists in need. If a complete stranger offers you a ride, politely turn them down and remain with your vehicle. Since you've already called for a tow truck, there's no need to hitch a ride with someone you don't know.
BE AWARE WHEN THE TOW TRUCK ARRIVES
For safety reasons, you'll need a way to verify who comes to your rescue. Ask for the dispatched driver's name as well as tow truck's license plate. Most tow trucks have easily identifiable markings and the drivers may also have nametags identifying themselves. Some tow truck companies send text messages when a driver comes in close proximity to your vehicle.
Keeping the above tips in mind can help you stay safe while waiting for a tow truck to arrive. Whenever you need a tow or roadside assistance, you can count on Rusko's Service Center
to be there.
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