What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down

Car Problems in Colorado Springs?

Knowing what to do and how to stay safe are imperative. Here are the steps you need to take if you’re faced with this dilemma.

1 – Turn your hazard lights on

To warn drivers that something is wrong with your car, this is the first thing you should do.

 2 – Pull over to the right shoulder

If your car is still running, the right shoulder is the safest place to be. If in a residential area, try to find a parking space or a lot nearby.

3 – Prevent car from rolling 

Turn your wheel away from the street and pull your parking break. Especially when on a hill, this will keep your car safe—and other cars, too.

4 – Triple-check before you get out of the car

Be positive the road is clear before you open your door, especially on a busy highway. If you feel safer staying in your car, go with your instincts and stay. However, if your engine is smoking or you see flames, you must leave the car.

5 – Call for help 

Have a roadside assistance provider? Give them a call for a tow-truck. There also might be a local roadside assistance provider. Or, you can call 911 to receive help.

6 – Set up flares 

To indicate that your car is out-of-service, use flares. Put one ten feet behind your car, and if it’s safe, another one 200-feet behind that.

7 – Pop the hood

This is the universal sign that your car is broken down. If you can safely exit the car, pop your hood to let other drivers know what’s going on.

8 – Wait for help

Although you may want to try and fix your car yourself, it’s safer if you wait for towing.

Wondering how your car got to be in this position? It’s possible that your battery died, and these are the most common cause for a car breakdown—especially in the winter. Lost keys are also a need for towing. The other cause of a breakdown can be damaged tires or wheels, alternator faults, issues with the motor, or fuel problems. Make sure to check each of these things in your car before you go on a lengthy road trip. In order to keep your car moving, it’s necessary that you perform each of these steps before anytime you’re out on the road.

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’re stranded or need a tow, do not hesitate to contact Bugs Towing! We are your local Colorado Springs tow company that are available 24/7, 365 days a year for any and all of your vehicle needs.