Imagine you're cruising down the highway, enjoying the open road, when suddenly, your car sputters and comes to a halt. It's a scenario no driver wants to encounter, but vehicle breakdowns happen to the best of us. Whether it's a flat tyre, engine trouble, or running out of gas, knowing how to handle common roadside emergencies can make all the difference.
In this guide, we'll explore some typical issues drivers face and how to effectively manage them, with the help of towing and roadside assistance services.
Flat tyre:
A flat tyre is one of the most common roadside emergencies drivers encounter. Compared to other vehicle emergencies flat tyres are easily manageable.
If you find yourself with a flat tyre, follow these steps:
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Pull over to a safe location away from traffic.
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Make your vehicle visible to other drivers.
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If you have a spare tyre and the necessary tools, you can attempt to change the tyre yourself. Follow the instructions in your vehicle manual.
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If you're unable to change the tyre yourself or don't have a spare, contact a towing and RSA service for help.
Engine Trouble:
Engine trouble can manifest in various ways, from overheating to strange noises. Here's what to do if your vehicle experiences engine issues:
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Once again, safety is paramount. Find a safe spot to pull over and turn off the engine.
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Try to identify the problem., such as smoke coming from the engine or the temperature gauge reading high.
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If you're unable to diagnose or fix the issue yourself, contact a towing service for assistance. They can tow your vehicle to a mechanic for repairs.
Running Out of Fuel:
Running out of gas or fuel can happen to anyone, especially if you're driving in unfamiliar territory. Here's how to handle it:
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Move your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
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Check your surroundings and determine if it's safe to exit your vehicle.
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Contact a roadside assistance near you for help. They can either bring you fuel or tow your vehicle to the nearest gas station.
Locked Out:
According to the reports, more people are locking their keys in their cars than ever before. Keyless ignition systems are becoming increasingly popular in cars, which may explain this trend. If you ever find yourself locked out of a car, here’s how to handle it:
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Panicking won't help. Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
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Contact a trusted locksmith or roadside assistance service for help.
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Avoid trying to unlock the car yourself with the DIY method. It can lead to damage, so it's best to leave it to the professionals.
Dead Battery:
Getting in the car and you turn the key, but your car won't start due to a dead battery. This can leave you unable to start your vehicle. Here’s how to handle battery failure:
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If you have jumper cables and a second vehicle, you can attempt to jump-start your car. Make sure to follow safety procedures and consult your vehicle's manual for instructions.
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If you don’t know how to jumpstart contact your roadside assistance service for over-the-phone assistance.
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If you're not comfortable jump-starting the car or if you don't have the necessary equipment, contact roadside assistance or towing service for help.
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Regularly check your battery's health and consider keeping jumper cables or a portable jump starter in your vehicle for emergencies.
Break Failure:
If your brakes happen to fail while operating your vehicle, it can lead to an accident. Here’s how you should handle the situation:
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Panicking can worsen the situation. Focus on maintaining control of the vehicle.
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If you have a manual transmission, downshifting to a lower gear can help slow down the vehicle.
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Use the emergency brake gradually to bring the car to a stop. Be aware that this may cause skidding.
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Once you've slowed down, try to safely maneuver your vehicle to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights.
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Brake failure is a serious issue that requires immediate attention from a qualified mechanic. Contact your service provider.
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Do not attempt to drive the vehicle until it has been inspected and repaired.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Issues
As electric vehicles become more prevalent, it's essential to know how to handle EV-related roadside emergencies:
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Move your EV to a safe location away from traffic.
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If your EV is running low on charge, check the battery level indicator. Some EV towing services offer mobile charging options to help get you back on the road.
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If your EV needs to be towed due to a mechanical issue, contact a towing or RSA service. They'll have the expertise and equipment to tow your EV safely.
Conclusion
Experiencing a roadside emergency can be stressful, but knowing how to handle the situation can provide peace of mind. Whether it's a flat tyre, engine trouble, running out of gas, or issues with your electric vehicle, having access to 24/7 roadside assistance and towing services can make all the difference.
Remember to remain calm, prioritise safety, and seek professional assistance when needed. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can handle these situations with confidence.
About Hindustan Assistance:
Hindustan Assistance is a reputable towing and roadside assistance company in India. Our experienced technicians are available 24/7 to assist you in time of need. We offer emergency towing services and have a fleet of tow trucks capable of handling any size vehicle. With our commitment to customer satisfaction and quality workmanship, Hindustan Roadside Assistance is a reliable partner for all your roadside assistance needs.