Most car owners keep their vehicles in top condition and even choose a vehicle they think will be durable in whatever type of weather or road conditions. Sometimes they rely on what they hear from automotive ads, but sometimes they rely on their local mechanics and gear heads.
But they know that the most important thing is to stay focused when driving. They avoid any distractions, but even then you will find yourself in a sticky situation. You will get involved in a road emergency, not sure what to do next. Here are ways to respond efficiently and deal with road accidents.
Guide your vehicle off the road
Engines can cut off suddenly for different reasons. In this case, turn on the hazards lights and slowly begin to pump your brakes. This will alert other drivers to understand that your automotive is having issues.
The power steering stops after the engine stalls. For this reason, the steering will be heavy, but you still can steer. Therefore, try to move your vehicle to the roadside. Apply the brakes of the car and gradually steer towards the roadside. However, the power brakes may disappear at any time, so stop soonest possible, use the emergency brakes if need be. You can now call the automotive industry for help.
Do not stop in the middle of the road
You do need a firm grip on that wheel and move slowly to a safer location. Automotive industries advertise that you should always keep your tires inflate, including the spare ones. Check the air pressure monthly. Tires will blow up due to lack of inflating your tires, thus leading to overheating. At the same time, ensure the sidewalls are in excellent condition, with no cracks or bulges.
Make the vehicle noticeable
The sooner you realize a problem with your vehicle, the better. Turn on the hazard lights to alert others that you are in trouble. Pull off to the main road and place that triangle sign, from the boot of your vehicle, on the street. Place it a few meters away to ensure other road users have ample time to notice an emergency. In case you don’t have anything to use as a warning signal, tie or hang some white cloth on the door or antenna of your vehicle and after you get help, visit an automotive industry for the triangle sign.
Leave the vehicle with caution
In case the vehicle instantly stops operating while in the traffic, exit cautiously and go to a more secure location. Don’t go far away from your car. A place where you can still watch your vehicle as you wait for assistance to come. You can also leave a short note on the windshield to alert the emergency crew or police that there has been an emergency. It is advisable to exit through the passenger’s door, don’t use the driver’s door.
Use the car horn
Faulty brakes can be fatal, especially when on the highway. If the system light begins to indicate a brake failure, make way to the closest automotive garage immediately. In case the brakes stop functioning, blow as a signal warning to other drivers and pedestrians on the road. However, avoid swerving on the street unless you are trying to escape an accident.
When you suddenly get an engine stall, or a tire blows, or probably another vehicle swerves into your way, staying calm is the way to go.
