Summer break means more freedom, especially if you recently got your driver’s license. And with that comes the occasional roadside mishap. Flat tires, weird engine noises, and dash lights that weren’t on yesterday can catch you off-guard.
These six roadside emergency tips every teen driver should know will help you handle the unexpected without panicking or calling your parents to get out of a pickle.
1. Stay Visible and Stay Safe
Low light, rain, or traffic can turn a roadside breakdown into a dangerous situation, so make yourself visible to other drivers. An Eflare roadside emergency package is a smart, fire-free alternative to traditional flares. Place them behind your stopped vehicle to alert oncoming drivers.
Reflective triangles or a high-visibility vest are great alternatives if you need to step outside the car. Never trust the hazard lights alone, as other drivers may not be paying attention.
2. Use a Phone Smartly
If there has been an accident or an immediate threat is nearby, drivers should always call 911. For issues like a flat tire or a dead battery, however, roadside assistance is the go-to solution. Either way, drivers should look for mile markers, exit numbers, or landmarks to figure out their location.
A car charger or backup power bank should be in the car at all times so that your cell phone doesn’t die when you need it most.
3. Don’t Leave the Car
Unless there is smoke, fire, or a situation that requires immediate escape, you should stay inside their car. It’s safer than standing on the shoulder with cars whizzing by at high speeds. Lock the doors, keep your seatbelt on, and wait it out. Even in a quiet area, the inside of a vehicle is the safest place to be until help arrives.
4. Know What’s in the Trunk
Every car should have a basic emergency kit, and you should know how to use it. A flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a tire gauge, and a spare tire with a jack are just a few things to keep in the car.
5. Learn the Basics
No one expects you to become a mechanic, but you should know how to check the oil, recognize a warning light, and jump a battery. Do a quick demo before your next trip so you don’t get stranded on the side of the highway.
6. Bring Water
Another roadside emergency tip every teen driver should know is to keep bottled water in the car. It’s useful for keeping yourself hydrated when waiting for roadside assistance. Whether you’re stuck in the suburbs or outside Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, hydration beats frustration every time.
