What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Finding yourself stranded on the highway with a broken-down car can be a nerve-wracking experience. Knowing what to do in these situations is crucial for your safety and peace of mind, whether due to a flat tire, a mechanical issue, or a dead battery. This post guides you through the necessary steps to take when your car breaks down and whether to call for a reliable roadside assistance service.

Stay Calm and Ensure Safety First

When your car starts to malfunction on the highway, staying calm is the most important thing to do. Panic can cloud your judgment and lead to mistakes. Here are the first steps you should take:

1. Turn on Your Hazard Lights: This will alert other drivers that your vehicle is experiencing issues and that they should proceed cautiously.
2. Steer to Safety: If possible, try to coast your vehicle to the shoulder of the road or another safe location away from traffic flow. Avoid stopping in the middle of the road or on a low-visibility curve.
3. Exit the vehicle Carefully: If it’s safe, exit the vehicle on the side away from traffic. Ensure all passengers do the same and move safely, ideally behind a barrier or far away from the roadway.

Call for Roadside Assistance

Once you're safe, your next step should be to contact roadside assistance. Having a plan in place can significantly reduce the stress of a breakdown.

• Know Who to Call: If you have roadside assistance coverage through your insurance, a membership service, or Adams Towing, have the contact information readily available.
• Provide Accurate Information: Be prepared to give the roadside assistance provider details about your location, the issue with your car, and any specific services you might need, such as a tow or a jump-start car service.

Adams Towing offers prompt and professional roadside assistance, ensuring you won't be stranded for long.

Communicate Your Location Accurately

Being able to pinpoint your exact location is essential for quick assistance. Here's how you can do it:

• Use Road Signs: Look for mile markers, exit signs, or any identifiable landmarks nearby.
• Check Your GPS: Use your phone or car's GPS to determine your coordinates.
• Describe Your Surroundings: If you cannot provide a specific location, describe any landmarks or road features you see. This can help the towing service locate you faster.

Wait Safely for Help

While waiting for assistance, remaining safe is vital, especially in a high-traffic area. Here are some tips:

1. Stay Visible: Keep your hazard lights on and, if you have them, place reflective triangles or flares around your vehicle.
2. Stay Inside Your Vehicle: If you're in a safe spot, it's often best to stay inside your car with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
3. Avoid Strangers: Be cautious of anyone who stops to offer help. It's usually safer to wait for the professionals.

Know When to Use a Jump Start Car Service

A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a breakdown. Knowing when to call for a jump start can save you time and frustration.

If your car won't start and the lights are dim or not working, it's likely a battery issue.

It's better to call a professional unless you're confident in your ability to jump-start a car safely. Adams Towing offers a reliable jump-start car service that will have you back on the road in no time.

Take Actionable Steps Then and There

Breaking down on the highway is an inconvenient and stressful experience, but knowing the right steps to take can make it much easier to manage. Stay calm, move to a safe location, and contact a trusted roadside assistance provider like Adams Towing. Having our number on hand ensures you'll receive prompt, professional help whenever needed. Call (813) 650-4447 anytime in need.