What Happens If You Break Down? Here’s How To Handle Things…

Although the risk of suffering a vehicular accident on the road is much lower when the necessary measures have been taken both for the vehicle and when driving, it is always necessary to consider what to do in the event of a breakdown. If you have kids or are often running people around, then you need a reliable motor. But sometimes, things go wrong! 

What are the most common incidents and what can you do about them?

Tire puncture: In the less serious case, the air pressure inside the tire gradually decreases, so you have time to edge the vehicle. Immediate measures must be taken to avoid an accident since reducing the tire pressure also lowers the speed of the vehicle regardless of applying the accelerator more fully, for which it is recommended to slow down gradually, turn on the flashing lights and with all caution carry out the manoeuvre to pull over and stop in a safe place to change the tire. This can avoid sudden acceleration of the vehicle. Make sure you always have the spare tire in perfect condition in the trunk, if possible. 

Tire burst: An extreme case is that the tire blows out, and if this happens, it is advisable to hold the steering wheel firmly and try to gradually guide the vehicle to a safe place and at the same time brake slowly avoiding depressing the brake pedal fully, which can have serious consequences. Once the vehicle is stopped, the flashing lights must be turned on and the tire changed.

Physical failure of suspension and steering elements: Some elements of the vehicle are subjected to great efforts and vibrations, which can become fatigued, so much so that at any moment they could suffer a breakage or damage. You have to be alert as it can be from something simple such as screws loosening, to a potential problem with the entire engine. It’s vital to know.

Correct location of warning devices: If the road is one-way, place a warning triangle 30 meters behind the place where the vehicle is located, placing it in the center of the lane it is occupying. Place another approximately 90 meters from the right side of the lane, this will help channel traffic. 

Your car needs to be towed: If you need to have your car towed to a garage then it is best to look at towing services and keep numbers nearby just in case you need to use them. 

Above all, however, you must be sure that you keep calm in the event of any type of emergency or accident. You should always be sure to keep your kids in good car seats as well as have all your documents to hand. Be sure to look up your insurance policy to report what happens to your car. While making the call, turn on the indicators to prevent the cars coming from behind from hitting you. Make sure you are in a safe spot or flag someone down to assist you.