What to Do and How to be Safe While Waiting for a Tow Truck

Breaking down on the side of the road is stressful and can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in this situation. But staying safe and knowing what to do while waiting for a tow truck can make a big difference. At Good Hands Towing, we’ve been helping drivers in Clawson, Utica, and beyond for years, and we know how important it is to stay calm and prepared during a roadside emergency.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do while waiting for a tow truck.

1. Pull Over to a Safe Spot

As soon as you realize you’re having car trouble, try to get to a safe location. This might be the shoulder of the road, a nearby parking lot, or even a side street. The goal is to get as far out of traffic as possible to protect yourself and other drivers.

Tips for Safe Pullovers:

• Turn on your hazard lights immediately to warn other drivers.
• Avoid stopping on blind curves, bridges, or busy intersections.
• If you’re on the freeway, try to pull over on the right shoulder rather than the left.

Once you’re stopped, engage your emergency brake to keep your car secure.

2. Stay Visible

Visibility is crucial, especially at night or in bad weather. Making your car and yourself visible to other drivers reduces the chances of an accident.

How to Stay Visible:

• Turn on your hazard lights, even during the day.
• Use LED safety flares, road flares, reflective triangles.
• Wear a reflective vest if you need to exit your vehicle.

Why LED Safety Flares Are a Must-Have

One of the smartest additions to any roadside emergency kit is a set of LED safety flares. Unlike traditional flares, LED flares are reusable, long-lasting, and safe to use without fire or fumes. They’re highly visible, even in poor weather conditions like fog, rain, or snow, making them perfect for Michigan’s unpredictable climate. Placing these flares around your vehicle can alert oncoming traffic to your presence, reducing the risk of secondary accidents while you wait for a tow. Compact and easy to store, LED safety flares are a simple investment in your roadside safety. Get yours HERE

These small steps can prevent a bad situation from getting worse.

3. Call for Help

Once you’re in a safe spot, call for a tow truck. Be ready to provide your location and a description of your issue.

Good Hands Towing is just a call away at (586)707-8678. We serve the entire area, including Birmingham, Madison Heights, Warren, and beyond. If you need a tow, let us know!

4. Stay Inside Your Vehicle (When Safe)

In most situations, staying inside your car is the safest option, especially on busy highways. Your vehicle provides some protection from passing traffic.

When to Stay Inside:

• If you’re on the shoulder of a highway or a high-traffic road.
• If weather conditions make it unsafe to be outside.

When to Exit:

• If you smell smoke, notice a fuel leak, or your car is in a dangerous position.
• Move away from your vehicle and stand a safe distance from the road.

Always be aware of your surroundings and use your best judgment.

5. Gather Information

While you’re waiting, take some time to gather important details about your situation. This will help you stay prepared and make things easier when your tow truck arrives.

What to Note:

• Your exact location (use GPS if needed).
• The condition of your car (e.g., flat tire, dead battery, overheated engine).
• Any personal items you need to take with you if your car needs to be towed to a shop.

Keep your phone charged and stay ready to answer calls from your tow truck driver.

6. Keep Yourself Comfortable

Depending on where you’re located, it might take some time for a tow truck to arrive, especially during peak hours or bad weather. Use this time to stay comfortable and prepared.

Tips for Comfort:

• Run your car heater or air conditioner sparingly to conserve fuel.
• Keep snacks and water in your car for emergencies.
• Stay entertained with music, audiobooks, or podcasts if it’s safe to do so.

Having a roadside emergency kit with blankets, first aid supplies, and a flashlight can make a huge difference.

Why Good Hands Towing?

At Good Hands Towing, we’re committed to keeping drivers in Troy, Shelby, Sterling Heights, and the surrounding areas safe. Our team responds quickly, and we’re here to help with everything from flat tires to major breakdowns.

Sign up for our newsletter to get more articles like this, along with helpful car care tips, discounts, and exclusive specials. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook @GoodHandsTowing for more advice and updates.

Remember, if you need a tow, let us know!

Quick Checklist for Waiting Safely

• Pull over to a safe location and turn on hazard lights.
• Stay visible with LED safety flares, triangles, or reflective gear.
• Call Good Hands Towing at (586)707-8678.
• Stay in your car unless it’s unsafe to do so.
• Keep your phone charged and gather important info.

By following these tips, you can stay safe and stress-free during a roadside emergency.

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