Getting a car stuck in a ditch may cause you stress and panic, especially at night or during a bad storm. There are a few tips to remember that will help you stay calm until roadside assistance arrives to get your vehicle out of the trench. Here are some steps to take if you find yourself stuck in a ditch.

What to Do If You Get Stuck in a Ditch

1. Stay Safe

Safety is your number one priority. Before doing anything, ensure everyone inside the car is okay. Turn on your hazard lights so that other vehicles can see you, and engage the parking brake in case the ground underneath is unstable. If there are injuries or you feel the car is in a precarious position, call for roadside assistance or emergency services.

2. Clear the Snow

If you find yourself in a ditch during winter weather, you may be able to free yourself despite the slippery circumstances. Before moving, clear snow and ice from your tailpipe as well as piles of snow around your car. If you don’t have a shovel, any sharp object will do. Once the wheels are free of snow, try to straighten them out and shift into the lowest gear to begin moving out of the trench.

3. Check Traction

Your tires need traction to get out. You may not have sand or cat litter on hand to help your tires grip the ground, but there are other items you might have that can work. Cardboard or your floor mats will do the trick. If your vehicle is rear-wheel drive, place them behind your rear tires, and if your car is front-wheel drive, place them in front of the car. Your floor mats might get ruined, but you will be free to make your way home.

4. Adjust the Weight

Sometimes the ditch isn’t as deep as you think, and driving out is just a matter of adjusting the wheels and weight of the car. Unload any unnecessary items and disengage the parking brake after ensuring it’s safe to do so. Check oncoming traffic and slowly begin to accelerate, but avoid gunning the engine. You can also alternate between drive and reverse to gain momentum at a careful pace until you are out.

5. Call for Roadside Assistance

When your attempts fail or if the situation is too dangerous, call for roadside assistance. Towing services and emergency personnel will have the equipment to help you get out safely and without excessive damage to your vehicle. They will also bring you to an auto repair shop when necessary.

For 24-hour roadside assistance in Russellville, Danville, and Morrilton, AR, call Cogswell Towing. Since 1949, the towing company has been the reliable choice when accidents, breakdowns, and other troubles occur. The towing service is one business in the Cogswell Motors family, which also includes a collision center with a team of professional technicians to help with your auto body issues. When you need a tow truck, call (479) 968-4665. Visit their website for their full list of offerings.