Your car broke down, and you just finished calling the towing company. At this point, what you need to do is to ensure your personal safety—and that of your passengers, if you have any—above anything else. Car breakdowns can happen at any time, so it’s best to keep these safety tips in mind while waiting for help.

Here’s what you should do next:

• Get Yourself Off the Road: Drive or push your vehicle onto the shoulder. Most highways reserve a lane exactly for this purpose, and other drivers know to avoid it. This is especially critical during the daytime, when hazard and warning lights may not be immediately noticed by oncoming traffic. If you cannot move your vehicle to the emergency shoulder, stay inside your car.

• Use All Available Illumination: After pulling to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and place your emergency triangle several feet up the road to warn other drivers of your plight. If you have extra illuminating materials, such as reflective aluminum or blinkers, use them all to enhance your car's visibility.

• Call the Police: If your car becomes disabled in the midst of fast-moving traffic, you can call the police for help. An officer can direct cars around your vehicle while you wait for the towing company, helping to ensure your safety and that of other motorists. The presence of a police officer is also comforting if you happen to break down in an unsafe area.

Do you need a towing company in or around Rochester, NY? Griff's Auto Service is an AAA-approved car servicing company with 45 years of experience repairing all brands of vehicles. If you need repairs or general auto services, call (585) 227-8700, or visit the company's website to get a quote.