Driving on a busy interstate will be intimidating as it’s with out having to fret concerning the potential of getting stranded. Irrespective of the explanation—whether or not it’s attributable to a flat tire, collision, storm, or visitors backup—if you end up stranded on I-465, there are some key precautions you must know with a view to hold your self and others protected. Preserve studying for a complete information on what to do when you’re ever in a state of affairs the place your automobile is stranded on the interstate.
1. SIGNAL and PULL OVER IN THE SAFEST AREA POSSIBLE
If you happen to’re driving on the interstate and have to cope with a flat tire or different malfunction, you’ll want to make use of your finest judgment to search out the most secure space attainable. Whereas the standard of your location could also be exterior of your management in sure conditions, make sure you select an space that’s large enough in your automobile. You received’t need your automobile to be protruding into the highway, as this may spell main hassle on a busy interstate.
Within the occasion that you’re in a development zone surrounded by freeway barrier partitions and wish to drag over, attempt to do every thing in your energy to make it out of the development zone earlier than pulling over. If the shoulder is closed and solely the lanes can be found, flip your hazard lights on till you’ll be able to safely find the aspect or shoulder of the highway to drag over.
2. REMEMBER TO TURN ON YOUR HAZARD LIGHTS
If you happen to haven’t already, when you safely pull over on the aspect of the highway, flip in your automobile’s blinking hazard lights. Irrespective of if it’s daytime or nighttime, your automobile’s hazard lights will sign to incoming visitors that you simply’re unable to maneuver your automobile or in want of help.
Hazard lights are notably vital when you change into stranded at evening or throughout a heavy storm, as they’ll give different motorists a heads-up that there’s a automobile stranded on the shoulder. If you happen to’re in a state of affairs the place you’ll be able to’t discover your hazard lights, or they merely aren’t working, you’ll be able to at all times flip in your automobile’s inside lights to sign your presence.
3. DODGE STANDING WATER, MUD, OR ICE
As any Hoosier is aware of, Indiana climate will be extremely unpredictable. Unannounced heavy rain and snow aren’t probably the most supreme driving situations, particularly whereas on a busy interstate. If inclement climate has gotten too uncontrolled and pulling over is a should to make sure your security, don’t hesitate! Simply ensure you relaxation your automobile in a protected space that isn’t overrun by piles of snow, massive puddles of water, or thick mud. When attainable, it’s finest to park your automobile on increased floor to keep away from areas with heavy water or ice. Parking on increased floor will even make it simpler to find in case your automobile wants a tow, plus you received’t have to fret about it probably getting caught in heavy mud or standing water.
4. NOTE YOUR SURROUNDINGS
When you’ve pulled over in a protected space, take detailed notes of your environment. It’s vital to remain conscious of what’s happening round you to make sure you keep as protected as attainable whereas ready to get assist. If you happen to can, be aware of any close by exits, predominant roads, mile markers, or landmarks that might help roadside help find your location.
5. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY
If you end up stranded out on I-465 attributable to an engine drawback it’s in your finest curiosity to stay inside your automobile after assessing the state of affairs. If you happen to’re not in a position to repair the problem, then staying in your automobile will hold you protected from the visitors dashing by.
If you happen to’re in a state of affairs the place you need to get out of your automobile, resembling an energetic hearth, by no means stand beside or behind the automobile. Be aware of any sounds or smells you’ll have seen earlier than needing to drag over that will give roadside help extra readability into how they will help hold you protected.
6. CALL FOR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY
Whereas it could be your first response to name Mother or Dad, it’s finest to name educated professionals who will be dispatched to your location as quickly as attainable. If you happen to’re in a state of affairs the place your automobile goes to want some help getting again on the highway, roadside help will come outfitted with the instruments and information essential to ship unmatched assist.
The Indiana Division of Transportation (INDOT) gives the Hoosier Helpers program that assists stranded motorists on Indiana interstates. Because the program started in 1991, Hoosier Helpers have come to assistance from greater than 400,000 motorists, pushed greater than 20 million miles, and responded to greater than 1.2 million incidents. Make sure you add their quantity to your contact checklist in case you need assistance whilst you’re on I-465: 855-INDOT4U (463-6848).
7. TRY YOUR BEST TO STAY CALM
After your automobile is parked in a protected space and your flashers are on, take a minute to assemble your self and take some deep breaths. Keep in mind: these situations will not be unusual, and there are skilled groups able to get you the immediate aid you want.
Remaining calm is not going to solely make your nervous system really feel higher, however it can additionally make speaking with roadside help really feel much less overwhelming. Attempt to clear your head with some deep breaths, so you’ll be able to concentrate on speaking what occurred and what kind of help you certainly.
Getting stranded on the interstate isn’t any enjoyable regardless of how ready you might be, however we hope this text can provide the information you must keep proactive within the occasion of a breakdown, heavy storm, or different vehicular disaster. Considering studying extra? Get began at the moment with our open enrollment On-line Course, or register for our Behind the Wheel classes.
