First Steps to Take When You Break Down on the Highway

What to Do First: Moving to Safety

Picture this: you’re cruising on the highway, the wind in your hair, your favorite playlist pumping through the speakers. All’s well until—bam! Your car starts sputtering and feeling like it might give up on you. What’s the first thing that comes to mind?

The Right Move: Shift to the Shoulder

Hold up! Before you panic, let’s break down what you should really be doing. The very first action you should take when facing vehicle trouble is to move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road, if at all possible. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? But why’s this the best first step?

You know what I mean? Being stuck on the highway can feel chaotic, especially with those speedsters zipping past you. By getting your vehicle out of the lane, you’re not just eliminating risk for yourself—you’re protecting other drivers, too. A vehicle that’s safely tucked away on the shoulder? That’s where you want to be first.

Why Safety Comes First

You see, staying on the roadway means you're risking an accident not only for yourself but also for that driver coming up fast behind you. We’ve all been there—rushing, barely paying attention. The last thing you want is for an unexpected incident to occur. But once those tires hit the shoulder, things change.

Let's Get Practical: After the Move

Once your car is safely positioned on the shoulder, it’s time to assess the situation. So, what do you do next? Sure, this is when you can turn on your hazard lights—let’s make sure those folks see you! But hold on: dialing up roadside assistance can come afterward. First, you need to assess if you can continue driving (if it’s a minor issue) or if help is truly needed.

Moving your vehicle gives you the breath of fresh air you need—a pause from the chaos. You’re now capable of looking over your engine, checking for warning lights, or simply breathing. What a relief!

The Big Picture: Planning for the Unexpected

But let’s not just stop there. While it may feel like a distant thought when you’re cruising, it’s wise to always have a plan for the unexpected. Here are a few tips to keep in your back pocket:

• Check your tires regularly. Flat tires can happen to anyone, but it’s easy to reduce risk with routine tire checks.
• Keep emergency numbers handy! Having your roadside assistance number saved on your phone means you’ll save time when it matters most.
• Consider keeping a roadside emergency kit. Think flares, basic tools, and some snacks—those peanut butter crackers could save your day!

Wrap Up

So, the next time you’re dealing with vehicle trouble on the highway, remember: get that car to the shoulder first. Let’s keep yourself and everyone else on the road safe, okay? Knowing what to do in advance turns a stressful situation into one you can handle calmly and effectively. Drive safe!