{"id":514,"date":"2024-02-16T22:58:49","date_gmt":"2024-02-16T22:58:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.acceptanceinsurance.com\/blog\/?p=514"},"modified":"2024-03-21T09:56:17","modified_gmt":"2024-03-21T09:56:17","slug":"what-to-do-if-your-car-breaks-down","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.acceptanceinsurance.com\/blog\/what-to-do-if-your-car-breaks-down\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down"},"content":{"rendered":"

What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down: 6 Roadside Safety Tips\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n

No one ever expects their car to break down, but with 69 million cars breaking down in the U.S. each year<\/u><\/a>, chances are it could happen to you. Being prepared can help get you back on the road more quickly. Do you know what to do when your car breaks down? If not, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Here are some tips on what to do if you find yourself in this situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Turn On Your Hazard Lights<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

To keep yourself and others safe, the first thing you should do is turn on your hazard lights and place your car in park. This will warn other drivers that you have stopped, and they should use caution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Call For Help<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If you have a cell phone, the next thing you should do is call for a tow truck or roadside assistance. Vehicle breakdowns represent over 80% of all automobile incidents in the U.S.<\/u><\/a>  There are plenty of towing companies out there who will be able to help you get you and your car off the road and to a safer location. They may also be able to help you get your car to a repair shop for inspection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Stay In Your Car<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

After you\u2019ve called for help, the best thing to do is to stay in your car. It’s not safe to get out of the car to wander around or to sit and wait on the side of the road. So, if you can, stay inside your vehicle and wait for help to arrive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. If You Have to Get Out Of Your Car, Use Caution<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

If you absolutely must get out of your car, be very careful. Stay as far away from the road as you can. If you must cross the road, be sure to look both ways before doing so. Always be mindful of any passing cars. If possible, have someone stay with your vehicle while you get help. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Be Prepared<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

The best way to prevent a breakdown is to keep your car in good working order by getting regular oil changes and tune-ups. This can help you avoid getting stranded on the side of the road.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Get Roadside Assistance Coverage<\/strong> <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Roadside assistance can help you get back on the road quickly and safely. If you’re in a remote area, call for roadside assistance. If you’re in a populated area, you may be able to find help nearby. Look for a service station, tow truck, or police officer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Once you’ve found help, stay in your car, and wait for assistance to arrive. If you must leave your car, be sure to let the roadside assistance provider know where you are going and when you’ll be back. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Roadside assistance providers can help you with a variety of problems, including: <\/p>\n\n\n\n