Roadside Breakdown Tips

Things you should know when waiting for a tow truck.

1. Ensure your vehicle is as far off the road as possible to avoid slowing down traffic and possibly cause an accident. If you cannot remove your vehicle far enough away from the road and traffic, leave your car and wait at a safe distance.
2. Turn on your hazard lights or place warning triangles so other motorists can see you.
3. If you have a phone, call someone you know and call for a tow truck.
4. For your safety stay inside your car with the doors locked. (unless your car is too close to traffic) or stay in a nearby building with a view to your vehicle so you see the tow truck when it arrives. Again, keep the doors locked.
5. If anyone approaches your vehicle only partially open your window. Avoid opening it all the way.
6. Collect items you do not wish to leave in your car. Your car is going to a garage for repairs.
7. Where possible keep enough money for a cab fare and phone calls. A book or magazine to read will help the time pass while you are waiting.
8. Don't raise the hood on your vehicle, a sign that you have broken down. If the tow truck is coming, you don't need other people's help, so keep your hood down. It will also block your view.
9. If you have friends coming to your rescue, make sure they park behind your vehicle. This will allow the tow truck access to the front of your car for hook up and transportation.