What To Do When Your Vehicle Breaks Down at Night
How to Handle a Vehicle Breakdown: Advice from a Towing Company in Calgary
Suppose you are driving home one evening, late at night, and suddenly, your vehicle starts to break down. The engine stalls, the lights dim, and then it stops. The road is dark and empty, and you have no idea what to do next. Sounds scary, right? But don’t panic! From this blog, you will learn the tips on what to do when your car breaks down during nighttime. Take a breath, follow these steps, and you’ll be fine until someone, like towing company in Calgary, comes to help.
8 Important Tips for Dealing with a Car Breakdown at Night
1. Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely
The first thing to do is stay calm. Worrying won’t help. Take a deep breath and push your vehicle to the side of the road. Get to the shoulder if possible, or wherever away from the roadway as much as possible.
If your car is still rolling a bit, use that little bit of rolling as a boost lights (the blinking red lights). This tells other drivers that your car is not in movement.
2. Turn on Your Hazard Lights
Your hazard lights help other drivers see your car. This is super important at night because it’s harder for people to notice a stopped car in the dark.
If your lights are not working, try using a flashlight or even your phone’s flashlight to make yourself visible.
3. Wait for Towing Company in Calgary Inside Your Car (If Safe)
It’s usually safer to stay inside your car and lock the doors, and keep your seatbelt on, especially on busy road or highways.
Only get out if you’re in danger, like if smoke, fire, or if your is stop where another vehicle could hit you. If you must leave, do so carefully and stand far from the road.
4. Call for Help
Now it’s time to get emergency help. Here’s who you can call:
- Roadside Assistance: If you have a service like AAA or roadside help from your car insurance, call them. They can send a tow truck.
- Police (911): If you feel unsafe or your car is blocking traffic, call the police. They can help keep you stay safe while waiting for a tow truck.
- A Friend or Family Member: Let someone know where you are. If you’re unsure of your location, check your phone’s GPS or look for nearby road signs.
- Towing Company: If you need a tow, call a towing company in Calgary. They can come to your location and get your car to safety.
If you don’t have a phone signal, stay calm and wait for another driver or police officer to pass by.
5. Use Emergency Tools (If You Have Them)
If you have a roadside emergency kit, now is the time to use it. Some helpful items include:
- Reflective triangles or flares – These make your car easier for other drivers to see.
- A flashlight – Useful for checking your car or signaling for help.
- A spare tire and jack – If you know how to change a flat tire, you can do so safely.
6. Watch for Strangers
Sometimes, a stranger might stop and offer help. While many people are kind and mean well, it’s important to be careful.
- If someone offers to help, stay inside your car and talk through a small window opening.
- Don’t take a ride from a stranger.
- If you feel unsafe, call 911 immediately.
7. Wait for Help
Once you’ve called for professional help, all you need to do is wait. It might feel frustrating, but it’s better to stay patient than make risky choices.
While waiting:
- Stay warm if it’s cold (use a blanket if you have one).
- Don’t leave your car unless you really have to.
- Keep your phone battery charged as much as possible.
If you’re stuck for a long time, try to stay awake and alert. Remember, the towing company in Calgary will be on their way to help you soon.
8. Prevent Future Breakdowns
Once you’re safe and your car is fixed, think about how to avoid this situation next time. Here are some tips:
- Keep your car in good shape – Regularly check your battery, oil, and tires.
- Fill up on gas – Don’t wait until your tank is almost empty.
- Carry an emergency kit – Keep a flashlight, phone charger, and basic tools in your car.
Conclusion
Breaking down at night can be scary, but if you stay calm and follow these steps, you will be fine. Always turn on your hazard lights, call for help, and stay inside your car if it is safe. Call for help, whether it’s roadside assistance, or a towing company in Calgary, or a towing service, and give your exact location. While you wait, stay alert and conserve your phone’s battery.
By being prepared and following these simple steps, you can handle any breakdown with confidence. Stay safe and always drive carefully.
