Is something wrong with your car? How to safely pull over and seek help

No matter how many years you've been driving, you always learn something new while on the road. Experiencing sudden car trouble can be quite stressful and inconveniencing. However, knowing how to react to such situations will enable you to remain safe while getting the help that you need in a timely fashion.

If your car breaks down in the middle of the road, here's what you should do.

Don't disregard the warning signs

Prevention is always better than cure. In most cases, your vehicle will give off certain warning signs before it breaks down. The Check Engine light may come on, or you may notice that the vehicle is producing a strange noise.

It helps to be aware of some of the common issues that may arise with your vehicle while on the road. For example, a loud screeching sound may symbolise worn out brake pads, while shaking of the engine may indicate engine knock. Regardless of the issue, have your vehicle checked so you don't end up stuck in the future.

Prepare to stop and get off the road

If your vehicle experiences trouble while on the road, prepare a plan to safely stop and examine what the issue could be. Most roads and highways have a shoulder you can use to safely get off the road. If you're on a very narrow path, slow down and turn on your hazard lights.

Your aim is to drive safely until you can get off the road and diagnose the problem with your vehicle. You should move as far away from the road as possible to avoid any chances of collision.

Only work on your car if it's safe to do so

You may not always have the chance to move a safe distance from the road. If that's the case, leave your hazards on and prepare to call a towing service as soon as possible. If you're a safe distance from the road, you may have a chance to check what the issue is.

Don't try to fix complex issues such as engine problems while on the road. You should only attempt to change a flat tyre, add engine coolant if overheating, or carry out other simple maintenance steps. For more complicated problems, have the vehicle towed directly to your auto technician's shop.

Have a towing service handy

The right towing service can be a lifesaver in such situations. If you're stuck in the middle of the road, a timely towing company will minimise the risk of an accident. A towing service can also help you diagnose what the issue is with your vehicle in preparation for repair.