Traveling With A Child With Disabilities? Use These Tips To Keep Them Safe During A Roadside Breakdown

As a parent of a child with disabilities, you have learned to be prepared for anything. Yet one of your worst fears is being stranded on the side of the road with no way to get your car started again. Since keeping your child safe is your highest priority, be prepared before you leave the house by knowing these steps for handling a roadside emergency with a disabled child in tow.

Pack an Emergency Bag

Most people carry an emergency bag for their vehicle with jumper cables and flares. However, you should also stash a bag in your car with things your child may need if your trip is unexpectedly delayed. Grab a bag and pack it with items such as extra diapers, medications, snacks and portable mobility aids that may be used if you have to transfer to another vehicle. Then, skip storing it in the trunk since that could be damaged in an accident. Instead, place it behind the passenger seat where it will be easier to access in an emergency.

Prevent Common Car Problems

Many roadside emergencies are preventable, and you can avoid being stranded by focusing on basic maintenance. For example, check your car's tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature has been fluctuating. Take your car to the shop for routine maintenance such as oil changes, and ask them to check for signs that your car may need further auto repair. It is also important to keep in mind that roadside assistance services can sometimes repair the problem on the spot so that you can get your child safely back on the road.

Stay Safe While Waiting

In addition to packing an emergency bag and keeping your car well-maintained, you need to know how to prevent a secondary accident while waiting for your roadside assistance to arrive. Begin by maneuvering your car out of traffic to a safe place on the side of the road. Then, avoid exiting your car if you are still on a busy road or highway. While you wait, increase your visibility to other cars by turning on your hazards, setting flares and keeping your interior lights on.

Roadside emergencies are never easy under any conditions. Yet having a child with disabilities in your care makes it ever more important to handle the situation correctly. When you call for your rescue, make sure to let them know a person with disabilities will be with you so that they can also be prepared to implement strategies that keep everyone safe. 

For more car safety and preparedness tips, contact a company like Collins Service Center.

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