One of those unforeseen circumstances that might make a pleasant day difficult is a vehicle breakdown. A breakdown can leave you stuck and in need of a tow, whether you’re on a desolate stretch of highway or in the center of a busy city. This article will walk you through how to be ready for Towing services in the event of a vehicle breakdown, so you can make sure you’re ready for such scenarios. When help is most needed, being prepared can save you money, time, and stress.
1. Stay Calm and Ensure Safety
Remaining composed and ensuring safety is the first and most important thing to do in any breakdown emergency. If at all feasible, carefully move your car to the side of the road and away from traffic. To make other cars aware of your predicament, turn on your hazard lights. Use whatever reflective triangles or road flares you have to improve your car’s visibility. If you are unable to move your car, stay inside and make sure your seatbelt is on.
2. Have Essential Tools and Supplies
It’s a good practice to have a basic toolkit and some essential supplies in your vehicle at all times. These items can be invaluable during a breakdown:
Jumper Cables: If your vehicle won’t start due to a dead battery, having jumper cables can be a lifesaver.
Tire Changing Kit: A spare tire, jack, and lug wrench are essential for changing a flat tire.
Flashlight: A flashlight with extra batteries can help you see and be seen in the dark.
First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit can be useful for minor injuries while you wait for help.
Basic Tools: A set of basic tools, including pliers, screwdrivers, and an adjustable wrench, can be handy for simple repairs
Blankets and extra clothing: These can keep you warm in case you have to wait for an extended period.
Water and Non-Perishable Snacks: Staying hydrated and having a little food on hand can help you stay comfortable.
3. Stay Informed
It helps to know what has to be done for maintenance on your car before you find yourself in a breakdown. Keep an eye out for manufacturer-recommended maintenance regimens in your owner’s manual and make sure you follow them. Understanding your vehicle’s needs can help you prevent breakdowns due to lack of maintenance.
4. Know Your Location
In case you do experience a breakdown, knowing your location is crucial. Pay attention to road signs, landmarks, and mile markers. Use mapping tools or GPS on your smartphone to find your exact position. When you need to contact someone for help, especially if you’re in a foreign place, this information can be of great assistance.
5. Have a Roadside Assistance Plan
Consider having a roadside assistance plan. Many auto clubs, insurance companies, and even credit card companies offer roadside assistance as part of their services. These plans can provide you with peace of mind, as they typically include services like towing, jump-starts, lockout assistance, and fuel delivery. Be sure to keep the contact information for your roadside assistance provider readily available in your vehicle.
6. Keep a Spare Key
Losing or locking your keys inside your vehicle is another frustrating situation that can leave you in need of assistance. Keep a spare key in a secure location outside your vehicle, such as a magnetic key holder attached to the underside of the chassis. Make sure the spare key is well protected to prevent unauthorized access to your vehicle.
7. Regularly Inspect Your Vehicle
Performing regular vehicle inspections can help you catch potential issues before they lead to a breakdown. Check your tires, brakes, fluids, and lights regularly. Pay attention to any unusual sounds or warning lights on your dashboard. Being proactive about vehicle maintenance can prevent many breakdowns.
8. Carry a Phone Charger
In today’s digital age, a charged smartphone can be a lifeline in a breakdown situation. To guarantee that your phone is always ready to use, have a power bank or car charger in your car. A functional phone is necessary for making help calls and contacting roadside assistance if you become trapped and want assistance.
9. Know What to Do in Case of a Flat Tire
Flat tires are a common cause of breakdowns. Knowing how to change a flat tire is a valuable skill. Familiarize yourself with the process and practice it before you need to do it on the side of the road. Having the necessary tools and a spare tire is essential, as mentioned earlier.
10. Maintain a Full Gas Tank
The avoidable problem of running out of gas can result in a breakdown. Make it your routine to always have at least half of your petrol tank full, particularly when you’re going far distances or through isolated locations. Being gas-starved can leave you stranded in an awkward place.
11. Have Contact Information Handy
It’s wise to keep a list of contact information handy. This should include the contact details for your roadside assistance provider, your insurance company, and trusted Local towing services. Having this information ready can save time in the event of a breakdown.
12. Understand Towing Coverage
If you have towing coverage as part of your auto insurance or a separate roadside assistance plan, be familiar with the specifics of your coverage. Understand the limits, coverage areas, and any additional services included, such as free tows up to a certain mileage. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions when you need them.
What to Do When a Breakdown Occurs
When a breakdown occurs, follow these steps:
Pull over to a safe location: As mentioned earlier, ensure your safety by pulling over to the side of the road and using hazard lights if needed.
Stay in your vehicle: It’s generally safest to remain in your vehicle while waiting for assistance, especially if you’re on a busy road.
Contact roadside assistance: If you have a roadside assistance plan, call your provider for help. They can arrange for towing services if needed.
Contact a trusted towing service: If you don’t have roadside assistance or if your situation requires towing that exceeds your coverage limits, contact a trusted local towing service. Be prepared to provide your location and details of the breakdown.
Document the situation. Take photos of your vehicle and its surroundings, and make notes about the incident. This documentation can be valuable when dealing with insurance claims.
Communicate clearly: When speaking to a towing service, roadside assistance, or insurance provider, be clear about your location and the services you need. Provide them with all relevant details to expedite the process.
Follow through with insurance: If you need to file an insurance claim related to the breakdown, ensure you complete all necessary documentation and provide any requested information promptly.
Conclusion
Being ready might help reduce some of the stress that comes with experiencing a car breakdown. Maintaining composure, carrying necessary equipment and supplies, and being aware of your surroundings will help you be ready for any eventuality and receive the help you require. Remember to maintain your vehicle, keep a roadside assistance plan or towing coverage, and understand your insurance policy to minimize potential expenses and inconveniences in case of a breakdown.
