Rarely does anyone plan to have car problems or break down on the side of the road. As congested as Houston highways can get, it can be scary if you have mechanical problems or stall on the highway.
Knowing what to do ahead of time can not only help ensure the safety of you and other motorists, but it might just save your life. Below are seven things to do if you break down, according to Tow and Go, a free service to Houston-area residents:
1. Save the Tow and Go number.
This is one you should do now, before you find yourself stranded: Save the Tow and Go phone number of 713-881-3333. If you experience a mechanical failure and find yourself stalled on the freeway, this is the number to call. Trained professionals will come to your rescue to help you clear the roadway and get you on your way safely. What’s better, this is a no-cost service for drivers traveling through the Houston area.
2. Stay in your vehicle.
As soon as you realize you’re stranded, the best course of action is to stay inside your vehicle. Buckle your seatbelt and remain calm. After you’ve called Tow and Go, you should stay where you are until help arrives.
[RELATED: Tow and Go provides Houston-area drivers with access to no-cost towing services]
3. Don’t change your tire yourself.
It is not recommended to change a tire on the freeway, especially on the traffic side. This can be incredibly dangerous and puts you at risk. Let the professionals handle it; they have the experience and equipment to do it safely.
4. Wait for the tow operator and confirm assistance.
When the wrecker driver arrives, they will identify themselves as part of the Tow and Go program and approach your vehicle. It’s crucial to remain in your vehicle until the Tow and Go operator instructs you on what to do next. This keeps you safe from oncoming traffic, which can be unpredictable and incredibly dangerous on busy highways.
5. Get in the tow truck.
Once it’s safe, get into the tow truck. The Tow and Go operator will transport you to a secure location, typically at the next exit, like a gas station.
6. Plan your next steps.
At the drop location, you’ll have several options for assistance. You can call your insurance company for a tow to a more convenient location -- such as a trusted repair shop -- reach out to AAA or even negotiate with the wrecker driver for a tow to your desired location. Keep in mind that anything beyond a next exit tow will incur a fee.
7. Contact family or friends safely.
If you need to call a friend or family member for help, make sure to ask them to meet you at the drop location, not on the freeway. This ensures everyone’s safety while providing you with the assistance you need.
While drivers whose vehicles have stalled must be vigilant, so must other motorists. This will help prevent secondary incidents, especially around police units and emergency services.
If you approach an area along the highway where any vehicle is stopped, state law dictates that you must slow down or safely change lanes. This not only protects the officers and wrecker drivers at the scene, but also ensures the safety of other nearby motorists.
Eliminating distractions while driving is vital to prevent these dangerous situations.
To learn more about how you can use Tow and Go, click or tap here.