Your car breaks down and you park it on the side of the road. Mechanical issues might not the only problem you encounter, though. Perhaps you got out of the car to change a flat tire. Or maybe you stayed in the car awaiting assistance. Without warning, another vehicle hit yours, injuring you.
Other vehicles may not see your car in time to stop, particularly in certain circumstances. If the other driver is drowsy, inattentive, impaired by alcohol or drugs, inexperienced, traveling in poor weather conditions or driving on a dark street, you might get seriously hurt.
If your car breaks down, you may become flustered. You need to stay calm and focused until help arrives. A few simple suggestions may save your life or the life of your passenger.
Taking steps to prevent breakdowns before they happen is a sensible, proactive thing to do. Your car should always be in good working condition and have routine maintenance.
What to do when your vehicle breaks down
- Get the car away from traffic to the right-hand shoulder of the road. Turn the wheels to the right in case your car gets hit by another car so it won’t be pushed into the flow of traffic.
- Remain inside the car with your seat belt fastened. If you have to get out, do it from the passenger side. Be careful when you exit the vehicle. If the engine is on fire, get out immediately.
- Activate your hazard lights.
- Call for a tow truck or 911 if it is an emergency.
- Be cautious if strangers want to help you. Remain inside the car with the doors locked and windows rolled up.
Having your vehicle break down can be extremely unnerving, especially if you are alone at night. Try not to panic. If your car gets struck by another vehicle while you are stopped on the side of the road in Wisconsin and you sustain a back injury, you may choose to seek compensation.
