5 Roadside Assistance Tips to Help You Manage An Emergency

January 4, 2024

Here are the five essential tips for effective roadside assistance.

Expert changing wheel on the roadside in Salt Lake.

Experiencing a car breakdown on the side of the road can be a stressful and scary situation. To quickly and safely get back on the road, it's important to know what actions to take when faced with a flat tire, engine problem, or any other issue. Knowing some roadside assistance tips ahead of time can help you manage any emergency situation with ease.


From having a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle at all times to contacting local authorities when needed, here are five tips for managing an unexpected roadside emergency.


1. Pack a Roadside Emergency Kit:
A roadside emergency kit should include items like jumper cables, flares, basic tools, flashlights, extra fuses and bulbs, reflective emergency triangles, and a first aid kit. Having all the necessary materials on hand can help you address minor problems yourself or make it easier for emergency personnel to assist you.


Nevertheless, if your goal is to ensure you have the essentials covered, consider selecting an emergency kit containing the following items:


  • A pair of jumper cables.
  • Road flares or an LED emergency light.
  • A basic tool kit and a canister of oil for topping up your engine fluids.
  • An old blanket, some water and nonperishable snacks in case you get stuck somewhere overnight.
  • A reflective emergency triangle, spare tire and a tire iron.


2. Get off the Road:
When you notice a problem with your car, it is crucial to quickly and safely pull over to a location that allows you to park without blocking traffic in any direction. Look for an area with enough space to accommodate your car. Ideally, you should try to find an emergency lane, rest stop, or parking lot nearby. If those options are not available, aim for a wide shoulder on the right side of the road. It's essential to stay with the flow of traffic, rather than against it. Do not stop in challenging to navigate locations such as one-way streets, blind corners, hills, or bridges.


3. Let Others on the Road Know You Need Help:
Using hazard lights or a warning triangle can help alert other drivers of your precarious situation. It is especially crucial to pull over in a location that is easily noticeable by other drivers. Additionally, rolling down your window and putting out your arm as a signal can further ensure that drivers are aware of your predicament.


4. Stay Near Your Car:
After you have safely moved off the road, make sure to stay close to your car. This may require waiting outside for help, but it will allow you to keep an eye on your vehicle. Don't leave valuable belongings or personal items in the vehicle, as this could encourage someone to break into it.


5. Call Roadside Assistance:
Calling roadside assistance can be helpful in many cases. After you've assessed the situation and determined that a tow truck is necessary, contact your roadside assistance provider or call 911 for help right away. It's also important to provide clear directions on exactly where you are so they can locate you quickly.


Get Emergency Roadside Assistance through SLC Fleet Pro Mobile Mechanic

At SLC Fleet Pro Mobile Mechanic, we provide emergency roadside assistance for customers with all makes and models of vehicles. Our services include towing, tire changes, jump starts and more. We are available 24/7 to help get you back on the road as quickly possible in case of an emergency. Call us today!

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