Blog - DeBoer's Sussex County New Jersey Expert Auto Service and Repair Blog

Roadside Safety 101: How to Stay Safe If You’re Stranded

Written by Bill DeBoer | Sep 30, 2016 7:58:00 PM

No one expects to be stranded at the side of the road, which leaves many car owners unprepared in the event of an emergency and unsure of proper roadside safety. You may be aware you need to get your car to an auto repair shop in Sussex County as soon as possible, but how do you stay safe until you are able to move the car? If your vehicle is not driveable, follow these tips to stay safe until help arrives.

Pull Off the Road

While it isn’t always possible, it’s essential to pull off the road as far as you can to prevent an accident. Be sure to use your turn signal when you pull off and turn your hazard lights on once you are stopped safely to the side. If you have safety cones, place them behind your vehicle to help enhance visibility. If you are unable to pull off the road, put your hazards on and don’t leave your vehicle.

Call for Help

Whether you are calling your roadside assistance program or you are directly contacting your car service shop in Sussex, it’s important to make the call as soon as possible. This will ensure help will arrive in a timely manner and you aren’t in danger for too long. It is always a good idea to contact the local police department as well. They can send emergency services to your aid to help keep you safe until your Sussex car repair shop can send help and get your car towed or otherwise repaired.

Stay with Your Vehicle

It can be tempting to walk away from your car while it’s disabled; however, we advise you to stay with your car unless it is putting you in danger. If you must exit the car, leave through the door away from the road and stay out of traffic. Never walk down a freeway if you can avoid it because this is a major safety hazard. You are far safer remaining in your vehicle until help arrives and you are advised to do so unless under emergency situations.

When your car breaks down, it may be against your instincts to stay with it, but it’s important to your safety. This is especially true if you become stranded on the freeway or another equally busy roadway. Following these tips will ensure you get assistance as quickly as possible, as well as stay safe.

If you’ve been stranded and you need someone to fix your car, contact us. DeBoer’s Auto is a leading auto repair shop in Sussex County, serving our customers with roadside assistance and more.