Emergency Advice: What to Do When Running Out of Gas on the Highway

Running out of gas on the highway can indeed be a stressful situation, but knowing the right steps to take can significantly reduce the risks and ensure your safety. This guide will walk you through the essential actions to handle such an emergency effectively and safely.

Stay Calm

The first and most critical step is to stay calm. Panicking can cloud your judgment and make a potentially dangerous situation even worse. Taking a deep breath and focusing on your actions can help you make sound decisions.

Signal and Move to Safety

If you start to run low on gas, the safest course of action is to signal and move to the right shoulder of the highway as soon as it is safe to do so. This typically involves:

Activating your turn signal to indicate your intention to move over. Moving slowly and safely into the shoulder or a nearby exit.

As you come to a stop, do so in a way that ensures you are not obstructing any traffic.

Turn on Hazard Lights

Once you have pulled over, switch on your hazard lights. This serves as a clear signal to other drivers that your vehicle is disabled and needs assistance. It helps prevent accidents and potential injuries.

Stay in Your Vehicle (Most of the Time)

On a busy highway, it is usually safer to stay in your vehicle, especially if the shoulder is narrow. Rolling down your windows and holding your arms up may also help deter any potential hazards while waiting for help.

Call for Help

Use your phone to contact roadside assistance, a friend, or family member for help. If you do not have service, you may need to walk to a nearby exit or gas station. Consider downloading an app or keeping a spare gas can in your vehicle in case you need to refuel or walk to a station.

Consider Emergency Services

If you feel unsafe or in a dangerous situation, do not hesitate to call 911 for assistance. It is always better to err on the side of caution when your safety is at risk.

Get Fuel Safely

If you decide to walk to a gas station to get fuel, be cautious. Carry a gas can if possible and always walk on the shoulder facing oncoming traffic to ensure your safety. If Uber is available, call a driver to get to a gas station for you. They can locate you using the GPS from your phone and may offer to fill your can and take you to the station.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

Keep an eye on traffic and stay aware of your surroundings at all times. This can help you avoid additional risks and ensure that you are reacting appropriately to any changes in the environment.

Plan Ahead for Next Time

After resolving the situation, take note of what went wrong. Consider keeping a spare gas can in your vehicle or using an app to track your fuel levels more closely in the future. Proper planning can prevent similar situations from occurring again.

Popular Solutions and Ideas

Some additional strategies include:

Contacting AAA or your insurance company, which may offer free roadside assistance. Walking to the nearest exit and finding a gas station to refuel. Utilizing Uber to get a driver close to the location where you are stranded.

Remember, the key is to remain calm, assess your situation, and take the appropriate actions to ensure your safety and the well-being of others on the road.