Whatever cargo you’re carrying, if you’re driving a semi-truck, having it break down in the middle of the road may be one of your worst-case scenarios. Car issues are always unpleasant, but when you have an itinerary to adhere to, it can be even more stressful. Even if your situation ultimately requires heavy-duty towing, there are things you can do to keep yourself, your semi, and your cargo safe in the meantime.

4 Ways to Safely Handle a Semi-Truck Breakdown

1. Look for the Safest & Widest Spot

Once you notice something’s malfunctioning, look for the widest spot on the shoulder of the road with the most visibility. Whenever possible, turn on your flashers and ease towards it. Having an ample amount of space will also make things easier for the heavy-duty towing company.

2. Let Other Drivers Know You’re Stopped

Once you’ve stopped, place flares or warning triangles around your truck. Altering circumstances require different placements. If you’re stopped on a two-way highway, you should have one flare or marker 100 feet ahead of your vehicle, and two behind you at 10 feet and 100 feet. You don’t need to do this when in a residential area or business district, but you should still keep your flashers turned on.

3. Contact Your Company’s Dispatcher

After setting the markers, call your company’s dispatcher or driver manager and inform them of the situation. They’ll help you find a nearby repair shop and give you further directions about what to do while you’re waiting.

4. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

If you want to minimize the likelihood of needing heavy-duty towing in the future, make sure to commit to a maintenance schedule. This is true for any vehicle, but even more critical for semi-trucks given how much time they spend on the road.

If your semi truck breaks down in the Greater Cincinnati, OH or Northern Kentucky area, call Quality Towing and Equipment Moving at (513) 777-6622. Specializing in heavy-duty towing, this West Chester company has served the region for over than 20 years. Fully-licensed and insured, they’re available 24/7, so you know you can rely on them at any time. Aside from semis, they can also haul flat-bed trucks, vans, buses, and even small planes! To learn more about their towing capabilities, visit their website.