Who’s to say you won’t end up with a flat tire, run out of gas, or have an engine malfunction on a dark, dreary night? Anyone can find themselves stranded on the side of the road, and that can be an overwhelming situation if you are not prepared.
To help you stay safe, we have gathered a list of essential precautions while you wait for the tow truck to arrive for assistance.
Let’s get into it.
Crucial Safety Tips While Waiting For Tow Truck
Stay Visible
As soon as you begin to experience a car malfunction, turn on your hazard lights and pull to the side of the road. This will alert passing drivers, allowing them to safely pass by your incapacitated vehicle. Hazard lights are also crucial for the tow trucks to identify you — especially at the end of a dark road or in low visibility conditions.
Preserve Phone Battery
You may want to scroll on your phone as you wait in boredom; however, you need to keep your phone charged. Only use your phone during an emergency, as you would need it to keep in touch with the tow truck company and contact them for any urgent situations.
Communicate Clearly
If you want to speed up the help, you need to be as specific as possible about your location. Clear communication with a precise location using landmarks will ensure the tow truck reaches you as quickly as possible.
ALSO READ: Why Do You Need Towing Services
Beware of Strangers
Don’t allow your judgment to be compromised by unusual circumstances. A passer-by may seem kind and genuine as they offer you help, assistance, or a lift, but it could be potentially harmful. Stay inside your car and keep the doors locked to ensure safety.
Safe Waiting Areas
Not only should you stay inside the vehicle because of stranger danger, but it is also often the safest option to be seated with your seat belts buckled in case of an impact. Do not try to exit your vehicle on a busy road; if you need to, use the door that is farthest from the traffic. Do not sit in the vehicle if it is smoking or behaving unusually. If you have been in an accident, staying outside — away from the traffic — may be a better choice in case of another collision, which could be harmful.
Inform Loved Ones
To add an extra layer of security, inform your friends and loved ones about your situation. Keeping them informed keeps you grounded and supported in a challenging situation. They can check up on you and, if they are unable to reach you, contact emergency services. Also, share your location and the details of your towing company with them.
Trust Your Instincts
Be aware of your surroundings. Be calm and patient, and maintain your composure. Contact authorities immediately if you feel unsafe or threatened. Don’t be afraid to let your operator know of the urgency of your situation.
Keep Loved Ones Safe
If you have children or pets onboard, make sure they are at the safest spot whether it is inside the vehicle or outside. Keep them close to you, and if it is dark keep a light shining on them. Secure your dogs on a leash because the last thing you would want them to do is escape from your arms into the traffic.
Essential Strategies for Preparing for a Tow Truck
Before we wait, make sure your car is prepared and ready to be towed when the tow truck arrives. Here’s what you need to do:
Call a Trusted Tow Truck Service
Ensure that your car will be in safe hands. Do your research before calling the towing company by taking a good look at the tow truck website and looking at the reviews.
Make it Convenient
Car tows can be a hassle, but to make the tow truck company’s job easier and to speed up the process, the following can help:
- Remove any necessary items from the car that you may need, such as your home keys or important documents.
- Separate your car keys from other keys so handover can be more convenient.
- If the weather allows, keep the windows shut to avoid attracting attention from passers-by and to save the tow truck company time, as they won’t have to do it later.
Take Pictures of Your Car
It’s a great idea to take photos of your vehicle for insurance claims. However, if you don’t need them for insurance, then taking pictures provides peace of mind as it documents any dents or scratches that you might not have noticed but may want to check later.
Need a Tow Truck in Edison, NJ?
We hope these tips help you in staying safe during a potentially dangerous and stressful situation. Having a roadside assistance plan can make all the difference on your next journey. By taking these precautions, you stay prepared no matter what the road throws your way.
If you are stuck on the side of the road and need a tow truck, Edison Towing and Flatbed Services are available to assist you. For an emergency response, please contact us.
