Sooner or later it happens to everyone — you’re driving along in your car, usually in the middle of nowhere, and for no apparent reason your car stalls and you find yourself frantically looking for a place to park.
So what should or can you do? First, don’t panic. Be certain that you park as far off the roadway as possible and turn on your hazard lights, call 112, and tell them you have broken down and are a woman on your own. This is of vital importance
Do not allow strangers to enter your vehicle and don’t get into theirs. Unfortunately if you are on your own it is far safer to err on the side of caution and in this situation assume the worst from passersbye. Rather than sitting in your vehicle in a daze, check your options and see if you can’t get on the road. Assuming that you have no idea what has happened, start with this simple in-car check-list.
– Try to start the engine, it nothing happens and all you hear is a clicking noise then there is probably a battery problem.
– If the engine starts but dies almost instantly then it is most likely there is no fuel or there is an issue delivering fuel.
– Naturally, if a warning light is indicating another problem, such as no
oil pressure, you may very well have your answer.
By far the best way to deal with potential problems is to do your best to avoid the possibility in the first place. Regular maintenance is the single most important aspect of safe motoring.
Keep your vehicle in good condition and every month, or at least before a trip, check all your car’s fluid levels, the battery, the tyres and the lights. If everything is working and in good repair before you leave home, chances are good they won’t let you down.
