Our experienced team of car accident attorneys has helped many Missourians get the compensation they deserve after being involved in a car accident.
Roadside emergencies! No one ever plans on ending up stranded on the side of the road, but it happens to even the most experienced drivers. Whether you have a flat tire or a dead battery, being prepared for a roadside emergency can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help you stay safe if you find yourself in a bind:
Keep a Roadside Emergency Kit in Your Car
One of the best things you can do to prepare for a roadside emergency is to keep a roadside emergency kit in your car. At a minimum, your kit should include items like a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, flashlight, reflective triangles, and flares. Having these items on hand can help you safely deal with various roadside emergencies.
For example, if your car breaks down in the dark, you can use the flares or reflective triangles to warn other drivers of your location. If someone is injured, you can use the first-aid kit to provide basic care. And if your car catches fire, the fire extinguisher can help you put out the flames. In short, a roadside emergency kit is an essential tool for any driver. So make sure you always have one close at hand.
Don’t Panic
If you find yourself in a roadside emergency, the first thing to do is stay calm. This can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that panicking will only worsen the situation. If you can keep a level head, you’ll be better able to assess the situation and take steps to resolve it. Once you’ve taken a deep breath and calmed yourself down, the next thing to do is evaluate the situation.
Get as Far off the Road as Possible
If you notice car trouble and have to stop on the side of the road, it’s essential to get as far off the road as possible. This will help keep you and your passengers safe and minimize the risk of causing an accident. It’ll also give you a chance to call for help without disrupting traffic flow.
If possible, drive to a rest area, gas station, or other safe location. If you can’t make it to one of these places, pull as far off the road as possible.
Warn Other Motorists
As you pull off the road into a safe location, turn on your hazard lights to warn other motorists. Also, if it’s safe to do so, set up flares or reflective triangles around your vehicle.
Don’t Exit Your Car Until It’s Safe
Getting out of your car immediately may seem like the best course of action when you have a roadside emergency, but it can be dangerous. If you’re on the side of a busy highway, exiting your car can put you at risk of being hit by a passing vehicle. And even if you’re on a quiet road, there’s always the possibility that another driver may not see you and could collide with your car. If possible, it’s best to stay inside your vehicle until help arrives. If you need to get out of your vehicle, make sure to do so carefully and watch for oncoming traffic.
There’s no telling when a roadside emergency will strike, but being prepared can make all the difference. Make sure you keep the tips highlighted above in mind, so you’re always ready for whatever comes your way. Remember, safety should always be your top priority for roadside emergencies.
Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm
Are you in Missouri and looking for a law firm specializing in car accidents? Look no further than The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. Our experienced team of car accident attorneys has helped many Missourians get the compensation they deserve after being involved in a car accident. We’re here to help you, too. Contact us today for a free consultation.