What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down on a Highway

A sudden sputter, a strange noise, or a dashboard light flashing can turn a routine drive into a stressful ordeal. A car breakdown is never convenient, but when it happens on a busy highway, it can be particularly dangerous. Knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in your safety and the outcome of the situation. It’s crucial to have a plan for what to do if your car breaks down on a highway to protect yourself and others on the road.

Prioritize Safety Immediately

The moment you realize your car is failing, your top priority is to move out of the flow of traffic. Signal your intention to move to the side of the road and steer your vehicle onto the right shoulder as far as possible. If you can't make it to the right shoulder, the left shoulder is the next best option. Avoid stopping in a travel lane at all costs, as this is extremely hazardous. Once you are safely on the shoulder, turn on your emergency flashers or hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.

Stay Visible and Secure

After pulling over, it’s generally safest to remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened, especially on a high-speed highway where the risk of being struck by another car is high. If you have reflective triangles or flares in your emergency kit, and it is safe to exit the vehicle, place them behind your car to increase visibility. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), staying inside your vehicle is often the safest choice. If you must exit, do so from the side of the car away from traffic.

Calling for Roadside Assistance

Once you are in a safe location, it’s time to call for help. Have the number for a roadside assistance service like AAA or your insurance provider’s service saved in your phone. Be prepared to provide your location as accurately as possible, using mile markers, exit numbers, or GPS coordinates from your phone. If you don’t have a roadside assistance plan, you can call the local non-emergency police line or a local towing company. Explain your situation clearly so they can dispatch the right kind of help.

Managing Unexpected Breakdown Costs

A highway breakdown often comes with unexpected expenses, from towing fees to urgent repairs. These costs can disrupt your budget and add financial stress to an already difficult situation. Knowing if your car breaks down on a highway you should have a plan for these costs is part of being prepared. This is where having an emergency fund is invaluable. However, not everyone has enough savings to cover a sudden, large expense. In such cases, exploring options for a fast cash advance can provide the necessary funds to get your car repaired and back on the road without delay.

Finding Quick Financial Solutions

When you need money quickly for repairs, traditional loans aren't always a practical option due to lengthy approval processes. An emergency cash advance from a modern financial app can be a lifesaver. These services are designed to provide rapid access to funds. With an instant cash advance, you can cover the tow truck, diagnostic fees, and immediate repairs, preventing a minor inconvenience from turning into a major financial crisis. Many cash advance apps offer straightforward terms without the high interest rates of payday loans.

How a Cash Advance App Can Help

Financial tools like the Gerald app are designed for moments just like these. When you're facing an unexpected bill, you don't have time to wait. Gerald offers a fee-free cash advance to help you manage emergency expenses without the added burden of interest or hidden fees. By using a reputable cash advance app, you can get the funds you need transferred quickly, sometimes instantly, allowing you to pay the mechanic and get back to your life. For more information on managing emergency expenses, consider reading about building an emergency fund.

Preventative Measures for the Future

While you can't prevent every breakdown, regular vehicle maintenance can significantly reduce the risk. Follow your car's recommended service schedule for oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. It’s also wise to assemble a roadside emergency kit to keep in your trunk. The U.S. government's Ready.gov site suggests including items like a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, reflective triangles, water, and non-perishable snacks. Being prepared can turn a potential disaster into a manageable inconvenience.