What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down - Eric's Towing & Car Care

A car breakdown can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. While it's always stressful, knowing what to do can keep you safe and get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Follow this step-by-step guide to handle a breakdown safely and effectively.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Get to Safety

Your safety is the top priority. If your car starts showing signs of trouble:

• Turn on your hazard lights immediately
• Try to pull over to the right shoulder, as far from traffic as possible
• If on a highway, exit at the next ramp if safe to do so
• If you can't move your car, stay inside with your seatbelt on
• Never stop on the left side of the road or in a travel lane

Step 2: Make Your Vehicle Visible

Once you're safely stopped, make your vehicle as visible as possible to other drivers:

• Keep hazard lights on
• Raise your hood if it's safe to exit the vehicle
• Place reflective triangles or flares 100 feet behind your car
• Tie a white cloth to your antenna or door handle
• If it's dark, turn on interior lights

Step 3: Assess the Situation

Try to determine what's wrong with your vehicle:

• Won't start: Could be battery, starter, or fuel system
• Overheating: Steam from hood, high temperature gauge
• Flat tire: Car pulls to one side, thumping sound
• Engine problems: Strange noises, loss of power
• Electrical issues: Lights dimming, dashboard warnings

Step 4: Call for Help

Don't attempt repairs on a busy road. It's safer to call for professional help:

• Call 911 if there's immediate danger or injuries
• Contact Eric's Towing & Car Care: (506) 327-5235
• Call your insurance company if you have roadside assistance
• Have your location ready (highway markers, street signs, landmarks)

Step 5: Wait Safely

While waiting for help to arrive:

• Stay inside your vehicle if you're near traffic
• If it's safe, wait outside away from the road
• Keep your phone charged and easily accessible
• Stay hydrated and dress appropriately for weather
• Be cautious of strangers offering help

Common Breakdown Scenarios

Dead Battery

Signs: Engine won't turn over, lights are dim or don't work, clicking sound when turning key.

What to do: Call for jump-start service. Don't attempt to jump-start your car near traffic.

Flat Tire

Signs: Thumping sound, car pulls to one side, visible flat tire.

What to do: Only change a tire if you're in a safe location away from traffic. Otherwise, call for roadside assistance.

Overheating

Signs: Temperature gauge in red zone, steam from hood, sweet smell of coolant.

What to do: Turn off engine immediately, turn on heater to help cool engine, call for towing. Never remove the radiator cap when hot.

Prevention Tips

While you can't prevent all breakdowns, regular maintenance can reduce the risk:

• Keep up with regular oil changes and tune-ups
• Check tire pressure monthly
• Replace old batteries before they fail
• Keep your gas tank at least 1/4 full
• Address warning lights promptly

Emergency Kit Essentials

Every vehicle should have an emergency kit:

• Fully charged phone and car charger
• Emergency contact numbers
• Reflective triangles or flares
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Blanket and water
• Basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers)
• Jumper cables
• Tire pressure gauge

Remember: Safety First

No repair is worth risking your life. When in doubt, call for professional help. Eric's Towing & Car Care has the equipment and expertise to handle any breakdown safely, so you can get back on the road quickly and safely.