A broken-down car at night means you’ll have to wait an eternity for a tow truck. It’s hard to see, cars speed up and people feel more anxious. A few easy steps can prevent you, your passengers, and other road users from being hurt until help arrives. Take the safety steps described next until you see the truck’s lights in the distance.
Get Visible
The most important thing is to ensure your car stands out to other drivers. Push the button that looks like a triangle, it’s the hazard light button. When you see orange flashing lights, you know your vehicle has stopped and there’s a concern. They advise drivers to be more careful.
Don’t just press the button and walk away; make sure they are functioning correctly. If your hazard lights don’t work, switch on your parking lights or headlights on low beams when it is safe and won’t bother other drivers.
Pull Over Smart
If you notice you’re having problems, move your car off the main traffic lane. If it’s possible, drive to a shoulder, an emergency lane, or a place with grass on the roadside. If you are far from any moving vehicles, you are less likely to get hurt. Stay on the hard part of the road to avoid getting stuck somewhere difficult.
Once you are done, put your car into park (or into gear with the handbrake pressed if it’s a manual), so it won’t roll. If you have other people in the car, have them leave through the door that is farthest from the traffic, if it is safe.
Step Away and Be Aware
Once your vehicle has come to a stop, step away from it immediately. Drivers often find it hard to see pedestrians when it gets dark. Move well away from your car and stand far behind any guardrails or barriers. When the road is curved or slopes, be careful where you stand. Watch for the noises made by vehicles moving closer to you.
Put on your reflective clothing, for example, a safety vest – if you have it. You should carry warning triangles or flares, set them behind your vehicle (at a safe space, as the instructions state) to help other drivers see you from further away. Keep in mind, you’ve arranged for a tow truck; fixing your car in these dark and hazardous conditions is not necessary.
Stay Secure
It’s not safe to step away from your car. If the road is crowded or the shoulder is narrow, and if it’s raining, snowing, or very windy, it’s best to remain inside your locked car wearing your seatbelt. If possible, open a window a little and use your hazard lights. Keep your battery charged so you can easily let the driver know where you are and what’s around you. Let them know what car you’re driving and your current location. When you feel unsafe, staying in your locked vehicle until help arrives is usually the right thing.
