Whether it's a flat tire, a dead battery, or something more significant, the time may come when your car breaks down and leaves you stranded in a parking lot or on the side of the road. When that happens, Nieman's Service in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, has some safety suggestions to help you avoid trouble. The following tips should keep you safe while you wait for the towing company to send a truck.

What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down

1. Turn on Your Hazard Lights

The first step is to let other motorists know you are there and the car is broken down. Turn on the hazard lights, so they know to drive around you.

2. Engage Emergency Brake

Engage the emergency brake and turn the wheel away from the road—toward the curb, if there is one. This is particularly important if you've broken down on a hill. These measures will prevent the car from accidentally rolling into traffic.

3. Call the local Police Department

It is important to notify the local police department if your vehicle is disabled on or alongside a roadway. Dispatch will send a unit to check on the situation, and ensure you are safe while you wait for assistance from a tow truck. 

4. Call a Tow Truck for Roadside Assistance

Call a towing service and describe your difficulty. Let them know what kind of problem you have, whether it's an empty tank, a blown tire, or a more serious problem so they know what tools and materials to bring with them. Try to be as specific as possible with your location. Doing so will ensure the driver can locate you as soon as possible. 

5. Keep Doors Locked

Once you've called for assistance, lock the doors and stay in the car, even if other drivers offer to help. When the tow truck arrives, make sure it has the name and logo of the towing service you called. This will keep you safe from potential scam artists or other predators.

If your vehicle breaks down and you need roadside assistance or towing, contact the experts at Nieman's Service. They offer fast response times and dependable service. Visit their website to connect with them online, or call (715) 423-4250 for more information.