4 On-Road Emergencies And How To Handle Them
When you're driving, you try to be a cautious and conscientious driver. Unfortunately, sometimes accidents can happen despite your best intentions. When they do, it's important that you know what steps you should take. Here are four potential on-road emergencies and how to handle them:
1. Your car breaks down.
If your car breaks down, it's important that you try to get it to a safe location. If possible, drive your car into the shoulder or the right lane, in order to avoid the possibility of a collision. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. Above all, make sure you stay in your car, especially if you're on a highway. Next, call a tow truck to get your car safely to your home or to an auto repair shop.
2. Your engine light turns on.
The warning lights on your car's console are a way to keep informed about the state of your vehicle. If one of the warning lights turn on, you should never ignore it. If your engine light turns on, don't panic. According to Consumer Reports, it's okay if you continue driving your car to your intended destination. However, you should take it to your mechanic to get your car evaluated as soon as possible.
3. You get a flat tire.
If your tire has low pressure due to being punctured, your first indication may be the warning light on your console. If you discover that you have a flat tire, you should pull over to the side of the road immediately. Using a car jack and the spare tire kept in your trunk, you can change your tire. Make sure to periodically check the spare tire in your trunk to make sure it's inflated in case you ever need it.
4. Your windshield breaks.
If your windshield becomes chipped or cracked while driving, you should take care of it as soon as possible. You don't need to pull over to the side of the road unless the damage is obscuring your vision. Once you get home, you should call a glass repair service to fix your car. Fortunately, a mobile glass repair service will make a house call and fix your windshield right in your garage, so you don't need to worry about taking your car to an auto shop.
Mechanical failures can happen while you're driving, but you don't have to worry. Just make sure to take care of any repairs as soon as you can. This list will help you figure out what to do if your car malfunctions while you're driving.