Getting stranded on the side of the road—it’s one of those things you never want to happen to you, but sooner or later, it probably will. But while drivers can get stranded for many reasons, not all of them are dire. As long as you know who to call for roadside assistance, you’ll be back on the road as soon as possible. Below, the experts offer some common issues that may cause drivers to require roadside assistance.

Top 5 Common Reasons Drivers Need Roadside Assistance

1. Running Out of Gas

Not all dashboard gas gauges are completely reliable. It’s not a huge problem—especially for drivers who always stay topped off—but it can be misleading. To avoid unexpectedly running out of gas, try to keep your tank at least a quarter full at all times.

2. Battery Issues

Car batteries can lose their charge for many reasons, such as if you leave your lights on all night, have dirty battery terminals, or your battery is past its usable lifespan. To prevent unexpected outages, remember to charge your battery every five years. But if your battery ever leaves you stranded, know you can always get a jump-start from a reliable towing service.

3. Flat Tires

A combination of poorly maintained roads and weak tires can often lead to getting a flat. While you can’t always control road hazards, you can avoid flats by maintaining tire pressure, regularly rotating your tires, and avoiding potholes and debris. If you need help replacing a flat tire, call a towing service for roadside assistance.

4. Overheating

The sight of smoke rising from the hood can be downright terrifying. If your vehicle ever overheats, pull over and turn off the engine until it cools back down. Alternatively, you can also leave the engine running for a few minutes while blasting the heater, which will help remove excess engine heat.

5. Malfunctioning Brakes

Perhaps even more terrifying than overheating is finding yourself unable to stop. If your car brakes unusually slowly—or not at all—it’s not safe to continue driving. Pull over immediately and call for roadside assistance. To avoid this issue in the first place, change out your brake pads according to your manufacturer’s specifications and follow other maintenance procedures.

Discount Towing & Recovery in Mountain Home, AR, is the trusted service local residents call for roadside assistance. If you ever find yourself in a bind, be sure to save their number to your phone today: (870) 425-1775. More information about the roadside assistance and towing service is available on their website.