staying safe while waiting for a tow

If you are driving along and all of a sudden your tire is making a thumping sound as you drive, you will want to get your vehicle off the road right away so you do not run into further problems. Getting a flat tire can be an anxious time if you have never experienced it before, but with the following tips you and your vehicle will be safe as you swap it for a new tire or wait for a tow truck. Here are some tips that will help you say safe while in this unfortunate situation.

Move To The Shoulder

Get your vehicle as far off of the road as possible so you are not in the way of oncoming traffic. When you pull over, it may be best to scoot yourself over to the passenger side door when getting out so you no one is caught off-guard that you are opening your door. If you are going to wait outside of your vehicle, stay on the passenger side at all times. If the tire with the flat is located on the driver's side, it is best to wait for a towing service to get your vehicle off the roadway rather than risking doing a tire change with traffic right next to you.

Alert Others About Your Problem

If it is light outside, turn on your hazard lights as soon as you pull your vehicle off the road. This will alert other drivers your vehicle is experiencing problems. At night-time turn on your interior lights instead. Some people may think you are just driving slow with flashers on and they could hit the back of your vehicle if you are not off the road far enough. Hold a piece of white cloth or paper in place with your driver's side window so it is seen from the road. This is a sign that your vehicle is immobile. Make a call to a towing service right away so you will not be waiting long for help.

Deal With People Stopping

Someone may pull up to ask you if you are in need of help. If you are in an unfamiliar area or if you feel uncomfortable with speaking to strangers for any reason, it is best to stay inside your vehicle. Roll your window down an inch or two to speak to someone if they come up to your vehicle. Pretend you are on the phone with the police and tell the person that help is on the way. 

If you do not have a cell phone, you may need to ask the person to alert a tow truck. Tell them you had already alerted the police and that they told you to call for a tow but your phone had died between calls. This way, they will help you and you will not be worried about them trying to gain entry to your vehicle as they will believe the police are on the way. 

For professional towing services, contact a company such as Big D Towing.