Finding yourself stranded on the side of the road can be stressful and even dangerous, especially on busy highways or during low-light conditions. One of the most important things you can do during a roadside emergency is make sure you and your vehicle are visible to other drivers. Proper visibility reduces the risk of accidents and ensures that help can reach you quickly.
Staying visible involves simple steps, proper use of equipment, and a bit of foresight. Here’s how to stay safe if you experience a breakdown or emergency while driving.
Use Hazard Lights Immediately
The first step when your vehicle stops unexpectedly is to turn on your hazard lights. Flashing lights alert other drivers that your car is stationary and may be obstructing traffic.
Even during daylight, hazard lights improve visibility and signal caution. At night or in poor weather conditions, they become even more crucial to prevent collisions.
Move to a Safe and Visible Location
Whenever possible, guide your car to the shoulder, side of the road, or a designated breakdown lane. Stopping away from active lanes keeps both you and other drivers safer.
Avoid stopping around blind curves or hills where approaching drivers may not see you in time. Choosing a well-lit or open area makes your vehicle more noticeable.
Use Reflective Warning Devices
Reflective triangles, cones, or flares are essential tools during roadside emergencies. Placing these behind your vehicle creates a visible warning zone for approaching traffic.
For highways or busy roads, position at least 50–100 metres behind your car, depending on traffic speed, to give drivers enough time to slow down safely. These devices are inexpensive, lightweight, and can significantly improve safety.
Wear High-Visibility Clothing
If you need to exit your vehicle, wearing a high-visibility vest or bright clothing ensures you are easier for other drivers to see.
Avoid dark or muted clothing, especially at night or in poor weather. Staying visible while outside the car protects you while inspecting the vehicle or waiting for assistance.
Keep Interior Lights On at Night
If your car is stranded at night, leaving interior lights on can add to your visibility. Combine this with hazard lights to make your vehicle stand out from the surrounding darkness.
However, be mindful of draining the battery if the engine is off, especially during long waits.
Minimise Risks While Waiting
While waiting for help, remain inside your vehicle if it is safe. Vehicles on the shoulder can still be at risk from passing traffic.
If you must step out, do so on the side away from traffic, and stay alert. Keeping your phone within reach allows you to communicate with roadside assistance and provide real-time updates on your location.
Have Emergency Visibility Tools Ready
A well-prepared roadside emergency kit should include:
- Reflective triangles or cones
- LED or road flares
- High-visibility safety vest
- Flashlight with extra batteries
Having these items on hand ensures you can quickly increase visibility during any roadside emergency, day or night.
Visibility Saves Lives
Being visible during a roadside emergency is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay safe. Using hazard lights, reflective devices, and high-visibility clothing, while choosing a safe stopping location, dramatically reduces the risk of collisions.
Preparation and awareness give you confidence in handling roadside situations. When you make yourself and your vehicle visible, you not only protect yourself but also make it easier for tow trucks or emergency services to reach you safely.
If you are in Epping, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
Recent Comments