How to Handle a Roadside Emergency

A roadside emergency can be scary. Having a flat tire at home is one thing, but a tire blowout on a busy highway is another. Knowing what to do in a roadside emergency and what to do when you’re stranded on the highway can go a long way toward keeping you safe.

The key to staying safe is being prepared with knowledge and an emergency roadside kit. Start with these roadside safety tips. And to make sure you’re covered while on the road, reach out to Farm Bureau to talk about the auto insurance policies that are right for you.

Handling Roadside Emergencies at Night

If your car breaks down at night, here’s what to do: 

• First, make your vehicle as visible as possible. Turn on your emergency lights and pull off as far from the road as you can. If you have flares or reflectors, set them up.
• Next, call roadside assistance or a 24-hour towing company. 
• Finally, always stay in the vehicle and let someone know exactly where you are — even if that means a late-night phone call. 

Handling Roadside Emergencies During a Storm

Low visibility during bad weather is dangerous for both drivers and those stranded. Here’s what to do if you’re experiencing a roadside emergency during a storm:

• In a rainstorm: If you need to pull off a slick road, do so slowly and avoid parking in any dips with accumulating water. Stay in your vehicle as much as possible until help arrives. If your car has been in standing water, avoid restarting the engine, which can cause serious damage.
• In the snow: In cold weather, you also have to contend with dangerously low temperatures. Run your car 10 minutes per hour for heat. But remember, you may need to wait a while, so don’t run your car continuously. Crack a window for fresh air. To be more visible, turn on your interior light and open your hood if the snow has stopped to signal you need help.

Handling Roadside Emergencies on a Highway

Highways can be especially dangerous, since cars are moving quickly and sometimes with particularly low visibility. Here’s what to do:

• At the first sign of trouble, get out of harm’s way — which may mean exiting the freeway or pulling off as far as you can onto the shoulder. 
• Turn on your emergency lights and climb out of the passenger side door. Set up flares if you have them and stand as far away as you can to stay safe. 
• Then, get out your phone. Call the police, roadside assistance and a loved one. Stay with your car so that they know where to find you.

Handling Roadside Emergencies in a Remote Location

If you anticipate driving through remote areas with spotty service, it’s a good idea to let a friend or family member know beforehand. That way, if you do encounter car trouble while in an isolated area, someone will know if you’ve been delayed. If you have trouble:

• As always, make your car and yourself visible and stay in the vehicle if it’s safe. 
• Remember, the further you are from densely populated areas, the longer it will likely take for roadside assistance to arrive. 
• Be sure to verify the towing company is who they say they are — ask for the driver’s name on the phone and look for the company’s logo. 

Assemble Your Roadside Safety Equipment Kit

Whether you’re on a cross-country road trip or simply commuting, it’s best to be prepared. Include these items in your roadside safety kit, and don’t forget to tailor it to your specific climate.

• Jumper cables
• Flares/reflectors
• External cellphone battery and charger
• Flashlight and batteries
• First aid kit
• Basic tool kit
• Blanket and hand warmers
• Poncho or jacket
• Water
• Non-perishable snacks 

Stay Safe on Roads Near and Far

You’re just one call away from help with Farm Bureau’s 24/7 roadside assistance. If you’re stranded with a flat tire, dead battery or more, call 800-226-6383 and we’ll send help from our trusted professional network. And reach out to Farm Bureau today to find out which policies are right for you and your automobile.