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Accidents happen, but the danger can be significantly reduced if you'll take a moment to read over these tips on roadside assistance, how to prepare for problem situations and encounters with aggressive drivers.
The following information is provided to you by the Texas Department of Transportation. For more information, call:
Texas Department of Health
Safe Riders
1-800-252-8255 |
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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU NEED ASSISTANCE ON THE ROAD |
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- Move the vehicle to the right side of the road out of the flow of traffic, if possible. Stopping on the left side of a divided highway is extremely dangerous but sometimes unavoidable. Do not leave the vehicle stopped in a traffic lane.
- Move the vehicle as far away from the traveled portion of the roadway as you can. At the very least you should be far enough away that you can open the door without stepping out into traffic. You also want to be visible enough so that people can see you.
- Show clear signs that there is a problem and you need assistance by raising the vehicle hood. This is an internationally recognized sign of distress.
- In addition, turn on your emergency flashers and display any signs you have that indicate you need help (such as shade screens with distress messages).
- If you remain with the vehicle, another motorist will likely report your disabled vehicle to the police, and it will be easier for the police or others to provide assistance.
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BE PREPARED FOR PROBLEM SITUATIONS |
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- Keep items in the vehicle such as flares, flashlights, blankets, and first aid kit. Mobile phones in the vehicle also become valuable safety tools during breakdown situations. In addition, have water available in hot climates, especially for children.
- Know where items such as your spare tire, jack, and other tools are in the vehicle and how to use them. Check periodically to make sure they are in working order.
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WHAT TO DO WHEN CONFRONTED BY AN AGGRESSIVE DRIVER |
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- Make every attempt to safely move out of the aggressive driver's way.
- Do not challenge an aggressive driver by speeding up or attempting to "hold your own" in the travel lane.
- Always wear your seat belt - not only will it hold you in your seat and behind the wheel in case you need to make an abrupt driving maneuver, but it will also protect you in a crash.
- Avoid eye contact with the aggressive driver.
- Ignore gestures, and refuse to return them.
- Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate authorities by providing a vehicle description, license number, location, and if possible, direction of travel.
- If you have a cellular phone, and can use it while driving safely, call the police. Many have special numbers such as 9-1-1 or #-7-7.
- If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash farther down the road, stop at a safe distance from the crash scene, wait for the police to arrive, and report the driving behavior that you witnessed.
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BEHAVIORS OF AN AGGRESSIVE DRIVER |
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- Running stop signs and red lights
- Speeding, tailgating, and weaving between lanes
- Passing on the right of a vehicle
- Making inappropriate hand and facial gestures
- Screaming, honking the horn, and flashing headlights
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