Highway Safety During Breakdowns: Protecting Yourself and Others

Highway breakdowns are among the most dangerous roadside emergencies. With vehicles traveling at high speeds and limited space to maneuver, proper safety procedures can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a tragic accident.

Immediate Actions During Highway Breakdown

The first moments of a highway breakdown are critical:

Stay Calm and Assess

• Don't Panic: Maintain control of your vehicle
• Signal Early: Use hazard lights immediately
• Check Mirrors: Monitor traffic behind you
• Plan Your Move: Look for the safest exit strategy

Safe Vehicle Positioning

• Pull Far Right: Get as far from traffic as possible
• Use Shoulders: Move completely off the travel lane
• Find Level Ground: Avoid slopes and curves when possible
• Face Forward: Position for easy re-entry or towing

Visibility and Warning Systems

Making your disabled vehicle visible to approaching traffic:

Emergency Lighting

• Hazard Lights: Activate immediately and keep on
• Headlights: Turn on during low visibility conditions
• Interior Lights: Help others see occupants inside
• Flashlights: Use for signaling and visibility

Warning Device Placement

• Reflective Triangles: Place 100-200 feet behind vehicle
• Road Flares: Use in low visibility conditions
• Bright Clothing: Wear reflective or bright colors
• Hood Position: Raise hood to signal distress

Personal Safety Protocols

Protecting yourself and passengers during highway breakdowns:

Staying in the Vehicle

• Safest Option: Usually safer to remain inside
• Seatbelts On: Keep everyone buckled
• Doors Locked: Maintain security
• Windows Cracked: Allow communication with help

When to Exit the Vehicle

• Fire or Smoke: Immediate evacuation required
• Fuel Leaks: Move away from vehicle
• Traffic Side Damage: Exit from passenger side
• Professional Arrival: Exit to assist tow operator

Communication and Emergency Calls

Getting help quickly and effectively:

Emergency Services (911)

• Life-Threatening Situations: Injuries, fire, or immediate danger
• Traffic Hazards: Vehicle blocking traffic lanes
• Location Information: Mile markers, exit numbers, landmarks
• Vehicle Description: Make, model, color for identification

Roadside Assistance

• Insurance Company: Many policies include roadside help
• Auto Club Services: AAA or similar organizations
• Professional Towing: KERNHR for immediate response
• Vehicle Manufacturer: Warranty-covered assistance

High-Risk Highway Situations

Special considerations for dangerous highway conditions:

Construction Zones

• Reduced Lanes: Less space for safe positioning
• Concrete Barriers: Limited escape routes
• Worker Safety: Additional personnel at risk
• Speed Variations: Sudden traffic changes

Bridge and Tunnel Breakdowns

• No Shoulders: Extremely limited space
• Emergency Phones: Use available communication systems
• Traffic Control: Authorities may need to stop traffic
• Specialized Equipment: May require special towing procedures

Weather-Related Hazards

• Rain and Fog: Reduced visibility for all drivers
• Snow and Ice: Slippery conditions increase accident risk
• High Winds: Difficulty controlling vehicles
• Extreme Heat: Risk of additional vehicle failures

Interacting with Other Drivers

Handling offers of help and maintaining safety:

Good Samaritan Assistance

• Stay Cautious: Not all offers of help are genuine
• Communicate Through Window: Don't exit vehicle unnecessarily
• Ask for Specific Help: Request they call for professional assistance
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels wrong, decline help

Law Enforcement Interaction

• Comply with Instructions: Follow officer directions
• Provide Documentation: License, registration, insurance
• Explain the Situation: Describe the breakdown clearly
• Request Assistance: Ask for help with traffic control

Preparing for Highway Travel

Prevention and preparation strategies:

Vehicle Maintenance

• Regular Inspections: Check tires, fluids, and systems
• Emergency Kit: Keep supplies in your vehicle
• Fuel Management: Don't let tank get too low
• Route Planning: Know your route and alternatives

Emergency Supplies

• Reflective Triangles: DOT-approved warning devices
• Flashlights: LED lights with extra batteries
• First Aid Kit: Basic medical supplies
• Emergency Contacts: Programmed in phone and written backup
• Blankets and Water: For extended waits

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Understanding your rights and responsibilities:

Move Over Laws

• State Requirements: Drivers must move over or slow down
• Emergency Vehicles: Includes tow trucks and service vehicles
• Penalties: Fines and points for violations
• Your Protection: Law helps protect stranded motorists

Liability Issues

• Secondary Accidents: Crashes caused by your breakdown
• Proper Positioning: Reduces liability exposure
• Warning Devices: Required by law in many states
• Insurance Coverage: Understand your policy limits