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.
How to Choose the Right Towing Service?
When your car breaks down, you want help which is fast, friendly, and fair. But not all towing companies are the same, some are great and others may have some issues which may not meet your requirements. Here’s how to pick a good towing company in Calgary:
Licensed & Insured
Choose a company that’s allowed to work in Alberta and has insurance. This means they’re trained and responsible, and you’re protected if anything happens to your car while it’s being towed.
Open 24/7
Breakdowns don’t only happen during business hours. A good towing company is available anytime, it may be day or night, weekday or weekend they will be there to help you.
Good Reviews from Real People
Before you call, check what others are saying. Look up the company on Google or Facebook. Lots of positive reviews? That’s a good sign. If people complain about slow service or surprise fees then keep looking for other companies.
They Tell You the Price Upfront
A trustworthy towing company will tell you how much it’ll cost before they come. No guessing, no surprise bills. Just ask when you call.
More Than Just Towing
The best companies can help with more than just towing. Some can boost your battery, change a flat tire, bring you gas, or unlock your car if your keys are stuck inside.
They Show Up Fast
If you’re stuck in the cold or on a dark road, time matters. Good towing companies won’t leave you waiting. They’ll give you an ETA (estimated time of arrival) and stick to it.
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.
Choose a towing business you can rely on. Verify that they are insured, licensed, and open 24/7. Select a business that offers additional services and has clear pricing. A reputable towing company will be there quickly when you need them most.
By being prepared and following these simple steps, you can handle any breakdown with confidence. Stay safe and always drive carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do if my car breaks down at night?
Stay calm, pull over safely, turn on your hazard lights, and call for help. Stay in your car if it’s safe.
2. Can I choose the towing company?
Yes, you can choose which towing company you want to use. Don’t feel pressured by the first one that arrives.
3. How can I make my car visible at night?
Use your hazard lights. If they don’t work, use a flashlight or your phone’s flashlight.
4. Is it safe to get out of my car during a breakdown?
It’s safest to stay in your car. Only get out if there’s danger, like fire or smoke.
5. How do I choose the right towing company in Calgary?
Pick a licensed, insured company with good reviews, 24/7 service, and clear pricing.
6. What emergency tools should I keep in my car?
A flashlight, spare tire, jack, and reflective triangles are good to have.
7. How long will I wait for a tow truck?
A good towing company will give you an estimated time of arrival when you call.
8. How can I prevent future breakdowns?
Check your car’s battery, oil, and tires regularly, and keep your gas tank filled.
9. Should I trust strangers who stop to help?
Be cautious. Stay in your car, and don’t accept rides from strangers.
