Whether you’ve popped a tire while cruising down the highway, or your vehicle has experienced sudden mechanical problems, every driver will likely need roadside assistance at one time or another. Being stranded on the side of the road is not just an inconvenience, but it can also pose issues for your safety. According to the team at Northgate Towing, one of the premier vehicle recovery and tow truck companies in Cincinnati, OH, there are some simple steps you can take to stay out of harm’s way the next time your vehicle breaks down.

Here are the top three things you need to know to stay safe when waiting for roadside assistance:

• Steer Clear of Traffic: You should always try to get your vehicle as far from traffic as possible after breaking down. If your car experiences a minor mechanical problem, you might have time to safely navigate your vehicle off the road and into a service station. Often, however, vehicles may experience sudden problems that prevent them from making it to a safe location. In these cases, steer to the shoulder and put on your hazard lights to make yourself noticeable to avoid other motorists.
• Always Be Prepared: You never know when or where your car will break down. That’s why you should always have the proper gear stored in your car for a worst-case scenario. Make sure your vehicle is outfitted with a spare tire and jack, blankets—in case you break down while it’s cold—jumper cables, and hazard markers to help alert other motorists of your vehicle at night or in inclement conditions.
• Have a Trusted Towing Company’s Information Handy: It’s always smart to have a towing company’s information handy before you need roadside assistance. Find a reliable tow truck company in your area that offers services such as jump starts, lock out service, and vehicle recovery, and keep their number in your phone as well as in your vehicle, so you know who to contact for help when you need it.

When you break down, it is imperative to get help quickly from a specialist you can trust. Next time you need roadside assistance, call the experts at Northgate Towing at (513) 825-8036 or visit them online to learn more about all of their vehicle recovery options.