Waiting to be towed can be pretty stressful. To be safe while doing so, first move your vehicle out of traffic and make sure you are visible for other drivers. Take a proper look around and keep all doors locked from unwanted guests.
Keep your family or friends informed about what is happening and where you are. Make sure to keep your phone charged to call the tow truck service and someone in case of an emergency.
While you wait, be sure to gather important details, such as the location and description of your vehicle, which can help expedite the arrival of assistance. By following these safety tips, you will feel more secure and in control during what can be a daunting experience.
Assessing the Situation
When waiting for a tow truck, it is highly important to evaluate the situation. This means making sure of your immediate safety, identifying where you are, and preparing to wait safely. These steps will significantly increase your safety and comfort during the wait at the roadside.
Ensuring Immediate Safety
First, take care of your immediate safety. If possible pull your vehicle to the side of the road, away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to make yourself as visible as possible to other drivers.
If you are on a freeway or busy highway, leave your car. If you cannot safely remain in your car, try to find a safe location as far away from the road as possible, such as a nearby restroom or behind a guardrail. Also, remember to always be prepared and to be aware of your environs to avoid danger.
How to Determine Your Location
Knowing your location is everything when you are waiting for help. Use the GPS or map app on your phone to determine where you are. Look for road signs, mile markers, or landmarks that can help you describe your location to the tow service.
If you need assistance, clearly communicate your location. If you cannot speak, send a text with your location details to a friend or family member. This can expedite the help you receive.
Getting Ready to Wait Safely
While you wait for the truck, take the necessary steps in order to keep yourself safe. If you have an emergency kit, this will be the time to use it. Make sure you have a flashlight for visibility, water, and anything that could help while you wait.
If you remain in your car, lock the doors. If you get out, keep your valuables locked and out of sight. Avoid confronting aggressive or suspicious people. Stay calm and think about the fact that help will soon arrive.
Visibility and Signaling
When stranded, make your vehicle visible to other traffic. Good signaling prevents accidents and also helps a towing service find you easily. Take every means to make your presence noticeable and known to others.
Using Hazard Lights
Immediately activate your hazard lights once you stop. This keeps other traffic around you informed that you have car trouble.
Location Hints: If possible, move away from the road and any traffic to increase your safety while waiting.
Lights Duration: Make sure your lights are on appropriately before using them. Ensure that both the front and back lights are flashing simultaneously.
Consider keeping your hazard lights on to be seen, especially if you expect to be waiting for an extended period of time. Just avoid draining your vehicle’s battery, especially in cold weather.
Setting Up Safety Triangles
Safety triangles can greatly increase your visibility. If safe to do so, set them up at least 100 feet behind your vehicle.
Triangle Placement: Place the first triangle close to your car, while the second one is approximately 100 feet ahead on the road.
Reflective Features: Consider triangles that have reflective surfaces for maximum visibility, especially in night or low-light conditions.
Always use triangles according to the code in your state. This would serve as a warning for other approaching vehicles to reduce speed and go around the stopped vehicle.
Wearing Reflective Clothing
Wearing reflective clothing increases your visibility if you need to step outside your vehicle. High-visibility vests or jackets work best.
Material Choice: Use bright-colored clothes with reflective strips so that one can easily view you.
Emergency Kits: Keep a vest in the car emergency kit for easy access.
While waiting for help, avoid being too far away from your vehicle. If you need to check on the traffic or guide the tow truck, don your reflective gear.