MAZDA Ownership 101: Broken-Down Car? What to Do
The last thing any driver wants is an emergency while on the road, but it’s vital to know what to do if your car breaks down. Knowing what steps to take ensures not only your own safety, but the safety of those around you. The technicians at North Penn Mazda have created this guide to help you out if your car breaks down while on the road.
Pull Over
If you notice something is majorly wrong with your vehicle, the first thing you should do is turn on your hazard lights and pull over to the right shoulder of the road as soon as it’s safe to do so. The National Motorists Association recommends keeping your lights on until help arrives. Once parked, turn on your emergency brake and turn your car’s wheels away from the flow of traffic if you’re stuck on an incline.
Stay in Your Car
Although you probably want to immediately examine your Mazda parts for damage, it’s recommended to never exit your vehicle while on a busy street. Keep your seatbelt on and use your cell phone to call AAA or another service for assistance.
Be Visible
To warn other drivers around you, it’s important to stay as visible as possible. Triangle reflectors are best, but if you’re going to use flares, be sure to check for the smell or appearance of gas first, and keep them well away from dry brush or flammable debris.
Call For Help
If you can’t safely exit your vehicle to get assistance, you’ll need to call a roadside assistance helpline or your insurance company’s roadside assistance service. You can also call our authorized Mazda service center, where we’ll be happy to help you through every step and begin talking about how to fix your issue. Your local police or highway patrol are also always available to assist you.
Visit Us in Colmar, PA, To Learn More About What to Do in an Emergency
If you want to be fully prepared in case your vehicle breaks down, contact our Mazda dealership in Colmar, PA, today. We have a team of factory-trained technicians who are happy to share additional tips on staying safe. Stop by today for more information!