Car trouble

The National Safety Council has these suggestions to ensure a safe solution to car trouble on a highway or interstate.

• At the first sign of car trouble, gently and smoothly take foot off the accelerator. Do not brake hard or suddenly. Carefully work the vehicle toward the breakdown lane or the side of the road. If on an interstate, try to reach an exit. Signal intentions to drivers behind you. If it is necessary to change lanes, watch the mirrors and the traffic closely.
• Once off the road, make the car visible. Put reflector triangles behind the vehicle to alert other drivers; use the emergency flashers. If it is dark, turn on the interior dome light.
• When you have a flat tire, be certain that you can change it safely without being close to traffic. If that is possible, change the tire as you normally would. Safety should take precedence over your schedule or any other concerns.
• When the car is beyond repair, it is best to get professional help. Do not try to flag down other vehicles. Raise the vehicle hood and tie something white to the radio antenna or hang it out a window so police officers or tow truck operators will know help is needed. Don't stand behind or next to the vehicle. If the car is in the roadway, stand away from the vehicle and wait for help to arrive.
• If the car is safely out of traffic, wait inside the vehicle with the doors locked. Use a cellular phone to call for help. If someone stops and offers to help, open the window slightly and ask them to call the police.
• Watch for a uniformed police officer or other emergency personnel. All interstate highways and major roads are patrolled regularly. Also, some highways have special "call-for-help" phones.
• Don't walk on an interstate, especially during inclement weather. However, if you can reach a source of help on foot, without jeopardizing your physical or personal safety, try the direct approach by walking. Keep as far from traffic as possible and walk on the right side of the roadway. Never attempt to cross a multi-lane, high-speed roadway.

Nobody enjoys car trouble, but try to stay calm and think through your actions. With these tips an unpleasant situation can at least be a safe one.