Emergency management
What to do if trouble strikes while you’re on the road
It’s always prudent to expect the unexpected, especially when you’re behind the wheel. Knowing exactly how to react in the event of an emergency can truly be a lifesaving advantage. Here’s how to safely deal with several worst-case scenarios that can occur out on the road:
• Your vehicle suffers a blowout on the highway. If this occurs, avoid what might be your initial impulse to slam on the brakes, as that could cause your vehicle to skid out of control. Take your foot off the accelerator and slow down gradually, working your way toward the road shoulder or, if accessible, an exit. Brake lightly once the car has left the pavement and you can safely stop away from traffic.
Raise the hood to let other motorists and law enforcement officials know you’re having a problem. Do not attempt to change a flat tire yourself if the car is stopped on a narrow shoulder adjacent to fast-moving vehicles.
• Your vehicle overheats.
If the car’s “TEMP” light flashes and the temperature gauge needle is in the red (“HOT”) zone, immediately turn the car’s heater up to full blast, which will take some pressure off the cooling system. Pull off the road and switch off the engine. Once the vehicle has cooled down, open the hood and check the coolant level via the translucent plastic “overflow” reservoir. If necessary, refill it to the indicated level via the plug at the top of this tank using a mixture of half antifreeze and half water. If you notice that a radiator hose has burst or has become disconnected, have the vehicle towed to a repair shop.
Otherwise, start the engine and monitor the temperature gauge while driving back home or to a mechanic; if the needle begins heading toward the red zone, or the temperature light comes back on, turn on the heater, pull off to the side of the road, switch off the engine and call for assistance.
• Your brakes fail.
If you suddenly find the brakes unresponsive, leave your foot off the accelerator and work your way toward the curb or road shoulder. Shift into lower gears if possible to slow the car, but don’t put the transmission in “park,” as that will cause major damage. Once it’s down to a crawl, apply the parking brake to bring the car to a halt. Don’t try to drive the vehicle any further — have it towed directly to a mechanic for repairs.
• Your vehicle catches on fire. Get off the road as quickly and safely as you can. Once you’ve stopped, switch off the engine and get a safe distance away from the vehicle in case the fuel tank ignites. Don’t try to put it out yourself — call the fire department immediately.
• Your car is underwater. A sudden deluge of rain can quickly flood roads, especially the viaducts and depressed areas. If your vehicle becomes submerged, remain calm. If the water is substantially deep, the car should remain afloat long enough for you to escape.
Immediately unlock the doors and open the windows – your vehicle’s power accessories should continue working for at least a minute or so. If they don’t open, try kicking out a side or rear window. Those living in flood-prone areas might want to consider carrying a small hammer or car window-breaking tool in the glove compartment for this purpose.
Unbuckle your seat belt (and those of children or other riders who need assistance) and exit through the open windows, walking or swimming to safety in the direction of the current.