You can’t predict when your car will break down, but you can make a plan of action to ensure you’re prepared for a range of vehicle problems. In addition to finding a reliable auto towing service, the following steps will keep you safe and calm.

What Should You Do If Your Car Breaks Down?

1. Turn on Your Hazards & Pull Over

Depending on where you’re driving— a highway or a quiet back road— this step might come with unique challenges. Regardless, immediately turn on your hazard lights, so your fellow drivers will know why you’re driving strangely and avoid you. If you’re on the highway, merge slowly to the rightmost lane and then into the right shoulder. For a less urgent issue, get off the highway and pull into a parking lot. Similarly, on residential roads, pull into a nearby parking spot, but don’t pull over near sharp turns or bridges.

2. Be Careful About Exiting the Vehicle

Once you’re pulled over, take a deep breath or two, and communicate with your passengers about the next steps. At night, make sure your car is visible to oncoming traffic with hazard lights, dome lights, and (if you have them) emergency triangles. As an added measure, pop your hood: it’s a common sign of a breakdown. If you decide to step out of the vehicle and evaluate the situation, take your time to make sure the coast is completely clear.

3. Call for Help

In some cases, like a flat tire, you may be able to fix your vehicle on your own; however, exiting your vehicle on a busy highway is dangerous, in which case it’s better to buckle up and call an auto towing service. If your engine is smoking or showing other signs of danger, exit the car and keep a safe distance from it. Stay at this ideal distance until your tow truck arrives.

Get reliable auto towing service whenever you need with Turpin’s Wrecker Service in Hiawassee, GA. For more than 30 years, they’ve offered knowledgeable and dependable service to customers with stranded vehicles. They offer both long- and short-distance towing, and 24-hour service because they know there’s no predicting when you might experience car trouble. In addition to towing, their experts can diagnose and repair your vehicle issues. Visit their website for more information on their services, or call (706) 896-4138