Nissan cars and trucks are notoriously reliable, but if you haven’t changed your oil in a while, you run out of gas or your battery is in need of replacement, you may find yourself looking at a smoky engine on the side of a highway. If this happens, we recommend following the below steps to keep you and your car safe during a break down and to help get your car back in perfect working order.
- Take note of your vehicle’s location. When calling for help from a friend or AAA, you will need to tell them your exact location. This is why it’s important to be aware of your surroundings i.e. nearby shopping centers, gas stations, mile markers and rest areas.
- If possible, pull off the road. If you notice your engine is starting to smoke, your gas is about to run out or your battery is about to die, attempt to pull off to the side of the road to the far right shoulder. If you do not have time to pull off the road, do not attempt to push the car. This is dangerous and can cause serious accident and injury. Also, do not stay in your car if it is still on the street. Simply call the authorities, switch on your emergency flashers and wait by the side of the road.
- Watch your surroundings when exiting your vehicle. If you are able to pull to the side of the road, be very careful when exiting your car. Watch for oncoming traffic and note any bad weather or lighting that might affect visibility. Also, never stand directly in front or behind your car while waiting for help.
- Increase your visibility to other motorists. This is especially important if you are stalled on the side of a busy highway or intersection. Always use your emergency flashers and flares. We suggest even raising the hood of your car to increase your visibility. You can also tie a brightly colored scarf or piece of clothing to your car’s door handles or antenna to let motorists know you are there.
- Move away from your car if you smell gas. This is a very important tip that many people might not know, but the smell of gas can indicate a gas leak that could lead to fire. If you do smell gas, move away from your car to the safest area possible and alert the authorities about the leak when they arrive.
- Otherwise, stay in your vehicle. If the problem is simply an empty gas tank or a dead battery then stay in your car with the doors locked and the window cracked until help arrives. Also, never get out of your car for a stranger, simply ask them to call for help or let them know that the police, a friend or AAA should be on their way.
Categories:
Social