AUTO CLUB

Don’t Become a
Roadside Emergency Statistic

August 27, 2019 by admin 1 Comment

Are you prepared for your next roadside emergency?

While cruising down the interstate in the center lane you hear what sounds like a small explosion, a noise that is immediately accompanied by the violent shaking of your steering wheel. A tire has blown out and you need to get off the road—and fast! Your car’s stability control system has kicked in, but you still need to signal your intentions, move over to the right lane and make your way to the breakdown lane—as near to the road’s shoulder as possible.

At this point you’re safe, right? Unfortunately, you’re far out of danger as traffic zipping by at highway speeds can present a problem if drivers don’t see you or have little time to react when they come upon you. People have been injured or killed while on the side of the road, which means you must do everything in your power to avoid becoming a roadside emergency statistic. Before you take your next trip, review some of the things you should have in your emergency kit and know what to do after your car comes to a safe stop.

1. Cell Phone.

Today’s driver may have OnStar or some other in-dash roadside assistance service, but for the rest of us, a fully-charged cell phone can bring help faster than a Good Samaritan. Your cell phone may have a built-in “hot key” to alert AAA or some other auto club, or you may have a plan with a carrier where you can dial #HELP and be connected to someone who will send assistance to your location. If all else fails, dialing 9-1-1 should bring a patrol officer to you.

2. Your Location.

Where in the world are you? Specifically, what landmarks are nearby to help you identify your precise location? Cell phone operators can identify a general area where you are, such as between two of its towers, but a mile marker can help too. Consider exit signage and other descriptive information such as a unique billboard and natural distinctions, such as rock formations. Don’t forget that your smartphone has a GPS locator, which can pinpoint your precise location.

3. Warning Equipment.

If your car breaks down at night or at a time of the day when visibility has been reduced, then you need to alert other drivers. Flares or signage—such as emergency triangles—should be placed several hundred yards away, ideally well before motorists come upon your vehicle. In the absence of warning devices, your car should be as far over to the right as possible. Unless the area is dangerous or the weather inclement, everyone should evacuate the car and move away from the highway.

4. Spare Parts.

It’s too late to do anything about a broken belt before you take a trip, but there are some things you can bring along to help you get back on the road quickly. Besides the requisite working flashlight with fresh batteries, bring along a container of coolant, a can of motor oil, rags, spare belts and hoses, and jumper cables. Ensure that your spare tire is properly inflated and a jack is in place and functional. Include a blanket, gloves, water, and food if your journey takes you through a remote area or where climate conditions are unfavorable. A fire extinguisher can be helpful as can a rescue mirror if you need to signal for help from above.

Fix it and Go

The sooner your car is ready to hit the road again, the better. You’ll be back on your way and, almost as importantly, you won’t risk being rear-ended by a motorist, thereby becoming a roadside emergency statistic.

Photo attribution: Hedi B., Pixabay.com.

What You Need to Know About Winter Driving

January 26, 2013 by admin 2 Comments

Just as parts of the Northern Hemisphere enters a deep freeze, our friends in the Southern Hemisphere are enduring record heat. The earth may be a little blue marble, but weather conditions can vary widely and have a huge impact on your car.

Driving Tips

If you are planning to take an extended trip this season, the following winter driving tips are worth reviewing.

1. Examine your antifreeze. When was the last time you checked your antifreeze? It may not need to be flushed, but it may need to be topped off. Check for leaks too you do not want to get stranded because your radiator was not up to the task.

2. Check your tires. It is always good practice to outfit your car with snow tires when driving on icy, slippery roads. You may have been lulled into believing that all-season tires are sufficient to get the job done, but you simply cannot get the same benefit from tread design and compounds used with snow tires. And, yes, for maximum traction place snow tires on all four corners, not just two.

3. Look at your brake system. An anti-lock brake system can help your car stop, but it is no substitute for worn brake pads and caliper problems. While you are underneath your car, check that the exhaust system is functioning properly too.

4. Top off the windshield washer reservoir. Head out on the road when the snow is melting and you will hit a barrage of slush that will splash up onto your windshield. You will need to start your trip with a full windshield washer reservoir with an antifreeze agent. Replace your wiper blades too if they have not been swapped out in at least six months. Bring an extra container of fluid with you.

5. Bring along emergency supplies. The possibility that you might get stranded looms as you hit the road under unfavorable weather conditions. Ideally, you will wait out a storm, but if you must travel, bring the following items with you: a snow shovel, brush, jumper cables, kitty litter or sand for traction, a spare cell phone battery, flares, blankets, water, food, a mirror to signal for help, and ample clothing. Let someone know of your intended route, giving them instructions to call for help if you do not arrive at your destination at the prescribed time.

6. Practice safe winter driving. You are quite the maverick on the road, are you not? With winter driving, you will quickly discover that you do not always have as much control over your vehicle as you would when road conditions are dry. And neither do other drivers. Ease up on the gas pedal, gently apply the brakes and allow for more room between yourself and other cars. When roads are slick or slippery, you need to account for longer stopping distances.

Winter Driving

If you have a GPS navigation system, keep tabs on possible delays and detours. If your route must change, call ahead to tell your party that your trip has been altered accordingly. If you have an emergency give 9-1-1 a call. Also, make sure that your auto club membership is up to date you may need to call for a tow truck if you get stuck.

See Also — 7 Winter Storage Tips for Classic Cars

“winter driving.” by clive-staples is licensed under CC BY 2.0

What Your Breakdown Cover Policy Offers

November 23, 2012 by admin 1 Comment

At some point you may need roadside assistance if your car suffers a mechanical failure, leaving you stranded. Most new cars come with breakdown coverage for the first few years of ownership, but once that warranty is up you will need to shop for a breakdown cover policy that is typically available from an auto club, an auto insurer or some other service provider. Let’s take a look at some features your policy should cover.

1. Round the clock coverage — What good is roadside assistance unless your provider can send help to your location at any hour of the day including on weekends and on major holidays? Typically, your service will provide assistance 24/7/365 without restrictions. Your breakdown cover policy should offer such protection standard and send help to you within the hour of receiving notification from you. Inquire about the company’s average response time when shopping for a policy.

2. Access via phone and message service — These days, accessing your roadside assistance provider by toll-free number may not be enough. With smart phones used so extensively, your breakdown provider should offer a message service too. When shopping for coverage you will want to ask, “Is there an app for that?” Make sure that your phone is always fully charged when taking to the road.

3. On the spot repairs — You know that a roadside assistance plan truly shines when its service goes beyond the mere towing of your vehicle to a repair shop. Some repairs can and should be made right where your car breaks down. For instance, if your tire goes flat, you should be able to have it changed by the repair service operator. If a battery fails, your service may include the installation of a new battery if your old battery cannot be revived. That special service includes replacement, with a separate charge for buying a new battery. In addition, roadside assistance might include a fuel delivery service, lockout assistance and an extrication service if your car gets stuck in the mud or in a ditch.

4. Local and long distance recovery — Most roadside assistance plans are tiered, meaning you can choose between basic or standard and plus plans. If your car must be towed to a service garage, your plan will typically include coverage within a certain range, such as a 25-mile circumference of your home. For longer tows, you’ll pay a per mile charge for miles that exceed the plan’s limits. If you are far away from home, you can still be towed to a local, but unfamiliar garage. Or, you can opt for a policy upgrade that will provide free towing for up to 100 miles, enabling you to get back home again and have your car serviced by a trusted mechanic.

Policy Considerations

Most breakdown cover policies offer basic and expanded services. Choose the level of coverage that reflects your driving habits. For instance, you’ll want to opt for long distance recovery if your travels include regular trips that are more than two hours from your home. Insurance policies are typically written for 6- or 12-month terms; your auto club or other service provider will usually offer a one-year roadside assistance plan.

How to Drive in Winter

November 30, 2010 by admin 1 Comment

Let’s face it: at some point over the winter, you will encounter treacherous road conditions if you live or are passing through an area prone to icing. Black ice, blizzard conditions, howling winds, and careless drivers can make your trip a challenge, even life-threatening.

skid row — Careful winter driving can help you avoid dangerous skidding.

Staying off the road is the best advice, by letting the storm run its course and giving road crews a chance to clear everything away. However, sometimes you have to head out or finish your road journey lest you become stranded. Before setting out or continuing down the road, keep the following in mind to avoid becoming a road casualty:

Prep your car – Any car with maintenance issues should not be driven – you will only raise the specter of breaking down on the road. Your car should be tuned up, the oil changed, new wipers in place, fluids flushed and/or replenished, leaks handled and the car battery in optimal condition. Fill up your gas tank too. All-season radials are not sufficient for heavy snows – put on a pair of snow tires.

Bring supplies – Carry sandbags in your car for traction as well as for helping you to dig out should you become stuck. Bring along a shovel, brush, deicer, jumper cables, flash light, extra batteries, road flares, coolant, tools, rags, paper towels, duct tape, and tire inflator. You can visit Edmunds for tips on how to assemble a do-it-yourself emergency road kit.[1]

Recharge your phone – Bring along a cell phone and make sure it is fully charged before heading out. Carry a recharger with you and remember that your phone may not be able to connect in remote areas. However, with GPS capability, your active cell phone may help searchers find you.[2]

Check lights – Walk around your car to make sure that headlamps, tail lights, fog lights, turn signals, and brake lights are working. Replace burned-out bulbs.

Head out – Roads may appear clear, but black ice may be present. No vehicle, including 44 SUVs and cars with traction control and brake assist can stop a car from sliding. Start your trip off slowly and do not assume that road conditions will be the same from highway to highway. Stay in the right lane, turn the steering wheel slowly and gradually brake as needed. Sudden acceleration or braking can cause your car to spin out of control. Always turn your front wheels into a skid.[3]

Consider sharing your planned route with someone who will not be taking this trip with you. That way, if you do not arrive at your destination, emergency personnel can be sent out. If you belong to an auto club, have their toll free number handy in case you get stuck.

Bring along a blanket, food, and water. Pull off the road from time to time to clear off accumulating snow and ice. If coming to the aid of another stranded motorist, call 911 for assistance as needed.

Once you arrive at your destination, you will want to make sure that your car has made it through its adventure unharmed. Tires may need additional air and under the hood fluids replenished. Repeat the steps outlined earlier before returning or continuing with your trip.

References

[1] Edmunds: How To Create Your Own Roadside Emergency Kit

[2] LovetoKnow: How to Trace a Cell Phone Location

[3] Department of Energy – Ask a Scientist: Skidding Direction

See Also — 7 Winter Storage Tips for Classic Cars

“Skid Row” by Tiberiu Ana is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Winter Driving Means Exercising Special Precautions Throughout The Season

December 30, 2008 by admin 1 Comment

Cold air has pushed down from Canada while moisture is moving east out of the Rockies, a dynamic mixture that means only one thing: snow, ice and freezing rain will impact all of the midwest and northeast over the next few days, making driving treacherous in some areas. Certainly, if you don’t have to be out on the roads during the worst of natures fury, you’ll want to ride this storm out.

It seems that the auto clubs and insurance companies are each doing their part to alert drivers of the pending problems of venturing out on the highway during the worst of the weather, urging people to wait the storm out. But, as we all know, work beckons and some of us are still away from home during the holiday season and needing to get back to where we live. A one day delay may not be possible for everyone.

“The best defense is preparation,” said Mike Convery, chief claim officer at MetLife Auto & Home. “Experience has shown us that many winter-related claims are avoidable, which is why it’s important to make sure your vehicle’s well-equipped and in good condition to take on the cold weather. By taking precautions, and being aware of what actions to take when you’re on the road, you may be able to avoid a serious accident and protect your loved ones from injury.”

Before the snow starts to fall, consider the following:

Give your vehicle a tune-up. Check the level of antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid, and make sure the battery is fully charged. If you haven’t changed your wiper blades in the past six months, purchase a fresh set.
Inspect your tires for bulges and uneven wear. If you get stuck in the snow, worn tires won’t be much help. Worn tire can also create potentially dangerous situations, too, such as a blowout on the road.
Keep emergency gear in your car. Make sure you have things like a flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, shovel, and snow brush, windshield wiper fluid, and warning devices (such as flares). Also, consider packing a “winter survival kit” that includes blankets, a bright piece of cloth to tie to your antenna, a flashlight with spare batteries, non-perishable foods, such as candy bars, and waterproof matches.

Snow, ice, and extreme cold can also cause problems for vehicles, especially during snow and ice storms, when driving can become treacherous. When braving the winter weather:

Drive slowly. Let someone know what route you’re taking and when you plan to arrive, so they can take action and alert authorities, if you don’t get there or are unreasonably delayed.
Consider the road conditions. Driving over the speed limit—or even at normal speed that would be considered unreasonable based on the conditions —can be hazardous, and the extra time you gain isn’t worth the risk.
Avoid ice patches. Avoid icy skids by matching your speed to the road conditions and taking precautions on curves and turns by slowing down in advance. Also, remember that ice patches are particularly common on-ramps, bridges, and overpasses, which tend to freeze first.
Slide smart. To bring a sliding car under control, remove your foot from both the accelerator and brake pedals, unless your vehicle has an antilock braking system (ABS). In that case, depress the brake pedal as hard as possible until the vehicle stops moving. Meanwhile, turn the steering wheel in the direction you want the front wheels to go and continue steering and counter steering.

Even with the best of precautions, your car may still end up stuck in a snowbank. Above all, don’t panic: try to push the snow out of the way of the wheels, by turning the steering wheel from side to side a few times or digging out with a shovel. Ease forward, keeping a light touch on the gas, and don’t spin the wheels or you’ll dig yourself in deeper. Rock the vehicle, shifting from forward to reverse and back again. If this doesn’t work, use your cell phone to call for help and then wait in your car, because it’s easy to get disoriented in the snow.

To stay warm, turn on the motor for 10 minutes every hour for heat, and make sure you have your window open a crack, for fresh air. Check to ensure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe. For best visibility, light two flares and place one at each end of the car, a safe distance away.

I also recommend that drivers not leave home without some sort of auto club arrangement in place. We’ve had a lot of success with AAA over the years, an auto club that provides towing, lockout service, car restart and other services. The last thing you want is to be stuck in a snowbank somewhere and needing the state to shovel you out – you’ll be responsible for that bill and you could end up causing a much worse accident!

Source: MetLife Auto & Home