Motorists: Exercise Caution When the Car Breaks Down

November 30, 2012

Motorists: Exercise Caution When the Car Breaks Down

Coming upon a stopped or stalled car within traffic is unexpected--and a possible catalyst for disaster. In a recent fatal accident near Zebulon, North Carolina a car that had run out of gas late at night was sitting partially in the traffic lane of the highway. A car ran into the stopped car, spun out of control, was struck by another vehicle causing it to burst into flames. The driver of that car died, and three other people were also injured in the accident.

This tragedy is a sobering reminder that drivers need to prepare for car trouble in order to minimize danger to themselves and other motorists. Running out of gas, is just one way a driver can be exposed to risk on the road.

In order to be ready for a breakdown and avoid a traffic accident, a driver should have an emergency kit for the car. The kit should include a flashlight, flares, a poncho, a blanket and some water and non-perishable foods. These items will be helpful if the car's occupants end up stranded for some time waiting for help.

The first action to take if a car starts to run rough, sputter or lose power is to pull completely off the road onto the shoulder, if possible. Once the vehicle is safely positioned, the driver should put it in park, apply the parking brake, and turn on the emergency flashers. Turning the steering wheel to point the wheels away from the road is also helpful.

If traffic permits, someone can get out of the car and raise the hood to help make the car more visible to other motorists and to rescuers. The road flares from the emergency kit can be placed about 50 feet behind the car to alert passing motorists.

Drivers who are not expert mechanics should not try to work on a broken down car. Even changing a flat tire can be difficult and dangerous, with the risk of being hit by a passing vehicle. The safest course is to wait for a tow truck.

It's also important to use common sense. In an isolated area, it's not a good idea to place complete trust in strangers. Someone who stops and offers help might mean well, but a stranded driver should stay in the car with the doors locked and tell the stranger that help is on the way.

Staying in the car cannot be emphasized enough. About 4,000 pedestrians are struck and killed by motor vehicles each year; walking along the side of a highway is risky, even a short way to a gas station. It is also important to be with the car when emergency assistance shows up.

Even when precaution is taken, motor vehicle accidents can happen. If you have been injured in a car accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to review your right to compensation, including expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and medical bills.

Article provided by Crosswhite, Crosswhite, Ashley, Johnson & Allen, PLLC
Visit us at http://www.crosswhitelaw.com