What to Avoid if Your Vehicle Breaks Down on the Expressway

What to Do (and NOT Do) When Your Vehicle Breaks Down on the Expressway

Ah, the expressway—where the pace is fast, and the stakes can be even higher. Whether you’re on your daily commute, heading for a weekend getaway, or just running some errands, the last thing you want is for your vehicle to break down. But if it ever does, how you handle the situation can make all the difference. So, let’s untangle what actions are essential and which ones are best avoided.

The Big Question: What Should You NOT Do?

Picture this: you’re cruising along, music playing, windows down, and suddenly, your car starts sputtering and comes to a halt. Now, what’s your first instinct? Before you make a move, let’s think about the one thing you absolutely should refrain from doing: Moving your vehicle to the left side of the roadway.

Why is that? On many expressways, the left lane is usually the fast lane—filled with speeding cars zooming by at, let’s be honest, adrenaline-pumping speeds. If you find yourself in that lane, you’re putting both yourself and other drivers in peril. It’s like trying to swim against a strong current—who’s coming out on top there?

Positioning Yourself Safely

So, instead of making that risky left lane dash, what’s the best course of action when your vehicle goes kaput? Move to the right shoulder, if at all possible. It’s like taking the safer, calmer route on a road trip. The right shoulder is where you’ll find some peace from the hectic flow of traffic, and it’s also a much better spot for waiting for roadside assistance.

Steps to Take Once You're Safely Off the Road

Okay, you’ve moved to the right side—great! What's next?

1. Activate Your Hazard Lights: This is a quick and simple task that could save your life. By turning on those blinky lights, you're not only alerting the other drivers that something's up, but you’re also preventing further potential accidents while you wait. It’s like a big neon sign saying, "Help, please!"

2. Check for Injuries: Are you feeling alright? Make sure to take a moment to assess yourself and any passengers. If you've sustained any injuries, well, that’s when you need to call for help, pronto!

3. Call for Roadside Assistance: Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, it’s time to reach out for some help. Whether you’ve got a roadside assistance plan or are calling a friend, this will get you back on the road as soon as possible.

The Importance of Safety Awareness

Being safe is key, not just for you but everyone else sharing the road. The measures above—not moving to the left, activating hazards, checking for injuries, and calling for help—aren't just protocols; they’re life-preserving actions. It’s important to remember that in moments of distress, staying calm and focused can be your best friend.

A Little Extra Knowledge Never Hurts

Let’s also talk about some common misconceptions. You might think, “I’ll just flag someone for help!” or “I can fix this myself!” While those could be viable options in a less dangerous scenario, expressways are not the place for DIY repairs. Trying to fix your vehicle on a high-speed thoroughfare? That’s like walking a tightrope without a safety net. Instead, stick to the steps outlined above.

And speaking of safety tips, here’s a fun fact: did you know that many newer vehicles come equipped with safety features designed to assist in case of a breakdown? From automatic hazard lights to emergency calls, technology really has your back.

Wrap Up: Keep Your Calm and Drive Safe

At the end of the day, driving is part art, part science, and a whole lot about common sense. When you face the unexpected, your knowledge about how to react can truly make a world of difference. Whether you’re cruising on the expressway or facing a sudden halt, always prioritize safety first. So keep your head cool, know what to do, and don’t let a breakdown ruin your day.

Next time you hit the road, remember these tips, and you’ll be ready for anything the highway throws at you—broken downtimes included! Drive safely!