What Should I Do In The Event Of A Breakdown?
Millions of car breakdowns occur every year; often proving frustrating and unsettling experiences especially if you have young passengers or are unsure of what to do.
Much of the stress of a breakdown can be relieved by planning ahead many breakdowns can be avoided by ensuring the car is regularly serviced and well maintained. As such there is basic car maintenance that can be carried out by the driver. Checking the engine oil tyre pressure and the condition of the brakes could prevent the frustration of a breakdown and the expense of repairs.
Before taking any journey there are a few items that can be invaluable in a breakdown situation and should be stored in your car. These include a warning triangle a fully charged mobile phone and blankets.
When a breakdown occurs first make the vehicle as visible as possible by activating hazard lights and try to move the car to a safe location by the side of the road. If its possible try to pull the car off the road or motorway completely. If the breakdown does occur on the motorway try to stop the car as near to an emergency phone as possible these are connected to the Police Control Centre and can be used to locate your vehicle.
A warning triangle is a useful tool to store in your boot and can be positioned a suitable distance behind your car to warn other drivers of your predicament. However be careful as it can be dangerous to try and position the warning triangle when broken down on the motorway.
Motorways or busy roads present the biggest risk to the passengers of broken down vehicles. Therefore never wait inside the car or next to it if broken down near heavy traffic. To prevent harm to passengers of another car colliding with the broken down vehicle all occupants must leave the car. Exit via the passenger door on the left hand side and move well away from the road.
In addition never wait on the hard shoulder of a motorway instead move onto the grass or embankment next to the road. Drivers can also risk their own lives from remaining by their vehicle and attempting to fix the problem themselves.
During the winter months it is important to keep a sleeping bag or thick blanket in your car to keep you warm in the event of being stranded simply because the temperature can drop significantly at night.
Most importantly ensure you have adequate and up to date breakdown cover. Often breakdown cover is included within online car insurance quotes or you may be able to negotiate a percentage discount off breakdown cover when booking car insurance online.
Of course there is much to consider with what to do in the event of a car breakdown but it pays to be prepared.
About the writer: Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote but should be considered professional content.
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