4 Things To Do If Your Car Breaks Down

You rely on your car to get you where you need to go. That's why it can be a nightmare when your car suddenly breaks down. Here are four things you should do if your car breaks down on the road.

1. Try to drive to a safe location.

If you're driving and your engine suddenly cuts out, you only have a few seconds before your car stops. If possible, try to drive your car to the shoulder lane or another safe location. This is especially important if you're on the freeway, intersection, or an area with fast-moving traffic. Remember to turn on your hazard lights as soon as possible, in order to alert other drivers to your presence.

2. Stay in your car.

Once your car has broken down, stay in your car if you're on the street. Cars driving by aren't necessarily looking for pedestrians, and some drivers may be distracted by texting. You'll be the safest if you remain in your vehicle until help arrives, so stay inside your car unless you need to leave to find a phone.

3. Call a tow truck service.

Your first priority should be moving your car to a safe location and getting it off the street. Your car is more likely to be involved in a collision the longer it remains broken down on the road. Call your local tow truck service to come move your car. If you're close to your home, you can ask the tow truck driver to take you there. If your house is more than a few miles away, you might want to ask them to drive you to a nearby auto repair shop instead. Tow truck companies charge by the mile, so you don't want to take your car farther than absolutely necessary.

4. Get your car repaired.

It's difficult to get around without a car, so you'll probably want to get your car repaired as quickly as possible. If you had your car taken to your house, you will have to call a mechanic that makes house calls. Otherwise, the auto repair shop your car was taken to will be able to handle the repairs. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may have to leave your car in the repair shop for a few days. Just remember to take your wallet, cell phone, purse, and any other belongings out of your car before going home.

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