What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on a Busy Highway

Welcome to a comprehensive guide on what to do if your car breaks down in the middle of a busy highway. This article will cover essential procedures and tips to ensure your safety and the safety of others, along with necessary precautions when using emergency services.

Emergency Procedures When Running Low on Power

If you find yourself without power while driving on a highway, the first step is to take immediate action to prevent a dangerous situation. Here are some steps you should follow:

Shift to Neutral: If you feel the car is losing power, immediately shift into neutral to conserve any remaining throttle. Activate Hazard Lights: Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that something is wrong with your vehicle. Avoid Using the Brakes: Refrain from using the brakes unless absolutely necessary. Using the brakes will slow your car down, but it can also create a dangerous situation in heavy traffic. Slowly Move to the Shoulders: Gently steer to the right, towards the shoulder or the emergency lane, and continue slowly until you are safely off the main traffic flow.

Once you are off the highway, you can address the issue more safely. However, if the problem persists or worsens, you may need to call for professional assistance.

Contacting Emergency Services

Knowledge of how to contact emergency services is crucial, especially in urban areas like Oklahoma where numerous highways intersect. Here are some methods:

Use a Dedicated Cell Phone: Consider carrying a dedicated 911 cellular phone in your car. This ensures easy access to emergency services in case of an unexpected breakdown. Emergency Services Hotline: Familiarize yourself with the local emergency services hotline. In Oklahoma, the city of Tulsa might have specific protocols for responding to highway emergencies. Stay Informed: Always keep updated on local emergency response procedures. Knowing when and how to call for help can be vital in ensuring a quick and safe response.

Calling a Tow Truck and Police Assistance

If you need to call for a tow truck or additional assistance, here are some guidelines:

Call 911 for Immediate Help: If you are in a position where you are creating a risk of injury to yourself or others, call 911 immediately. Contact Local Tow Truck Services: Use a reliable tow truck service to help you get your vehicle off the highway. Many companies offer roadside assistance, which can be very helpful. Report to Highway Patrol: If you need to report the breakdown to a police officer on patrol, they can assist in directing traffic and providing updates on traffic conditions.

It's important to stay calm and follow the instructions provided by emergency services. They will guide you through the process of safely getting your vehicle off the highway and back to a safe location.

Preparedness and Proactive Measures

To avoid being caught off guard by a breakdown, it's essential to take proactive measures:

Check Vehicle Before Long Trips: Regularly check your vehicle's battery, spark plugs, and other critical components to ensure they are in good working order. Keep a Basic Toolkit: Keep a fully functional toolkit in your car, including spare tires, a jack, and handy tools like a flashlight and multi-tool. Store Essential Emergency Items: In the event of a breakdown, it's crucial to have food, water, and other essential items. Consider packing them in a small bag or container.

In conclusion, understanding the proper procedures and emergency response protocols can make a significant difference when your car breaks down on a busy highway. Whether you call 911, a tow truck, or local highway patrol, knowing the steps to take can help ensure your safety and that of others on the road.