Driving behavior on the highway, aptly demonstrated.
Safely Handling a Car Breakdown on the Highway: Tips from Auto Club Europa (ACE)
When faced with a car breakdown on the highway, it's essential to act quickly and safely to minimize risks for you and other road users. Auto Club Europa (ACE) offers the following guidance:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location: Relocate your vehicle as far off the road as possible, such as the emergency lane or a designated breakdown area.
- Turn on your hazard warning lights: Activate your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers of your predicament.
- Exit the vehicle safely: Exit the vehicle on the side away from traffic for maximum safety, and ensure all passengers do the same.
- Use high-visibility clothing or a reflective vest: If available, wear a reflective vest or other high-visibility clothing, especially in poor light or heavy traffic conditions.
- Place a warning triangle: Position a warning triangle at an appropriate distance behind your vehicle to warn approaching traffic. Follow the guidelines for urban, rural, and motorway distances as outlined in the bullet points.
- Contact the roadside assistance service provided: Rather than attempting to fix the issue yourself on a busy highway, call the roadside assistance service, such as ACE, for professional help.
These precautions help protect you and other road users from accidents and allow professional services to handle the breakdown efficiently. ACE stresses the importance of staying visible and safe while waiting for assistance and relying on authorized rescue agents to manage vehicle recovery.
For additional safety measures, ACE recommends:
- Never stay in the car during a breakdown: It could be dangerous in case of a rear-end collision.
- Call roadside assistance once the warning triangle is in place and everyone is at a safe distance.
By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safer experience for everyone on the road during a car breakdown.
If you encounter a car breakdown on the highway, consider acquiring more high-visibility clothing or a reflective vest to further enhance your safety. Additionally, while traveling and embracing different lifestyle choices, investing in a reliable car could prove valuable for unexpected situations like car breakdowns, ensuring a smoother journey.
