Let your teen read this blog to learn what to do if their car breaks down.
When you’re a teenager and experience a car breakdown it can be a stressful and intimidating situation. However, you’ve got this! With the right knowledge and preparation, you can handle it confidently and safely. the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive guides you through the steps to take if your car breaks down, ensuring you stay safe and get back on the road as soon as possible.
- Stay Calm and Safe. First step (and most crucial) is to remain calm. Panicking won’t help the situation and can lead to poor decision-making. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that your car is disabled, and if it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. If you can’t move the car, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
- Call for Help. Once you’re in a safe location, it’s time to call for assistance. If you have a trusted adult or family member you can reach, call them for help. Otherwise, contact a roadside assistance service or your parents if you have a cell phone. If you don’t have a phone or you’re in a place where you don’t have cell phone reception, consider asking a passerby for assistance or walking to the nearest gas station or business to use their phone.
- Provide Details. When you contact help, provide as much information as possible about your location, the car’s condition, and any visible landmarks or signs. This will help responders find you more quickly and accurately.
- Know Basic Car Maintenance. Being a responsible car owner means understanding some basic car maintenance. As a teen, you might not be the primary driver, but learning about checking and maintaining essential things like tire pressure, oil levels, and the condition of your brakes can prevent breakdowns in the first place. Understanding the basics of your car, such as how to change a flat tire or jumpstart a dead battery, can be empowering and useful when you find yourself in a tough spot. Ask a parent or guardian to show you these skills or take a basic car maintenance class.
- Carry Essentials. Make sure you take inventory of and keep these essentials in your car. Should you ever break down you’ll be glad you did.
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Reflective triangles or cones
- Blanket
- Non-perishable snacks and water
- First aid kit
- Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, etc.)
- Plan Your Routes. Whenever possible, plan your routes before heading out. Share your intended destination and estimated arrival time with someone you trust. This way, if you don’t arrive on time, they will have a general idea of where to look for you.
Experiencing a car breakdown as a teen can be scary, but by staying calm, calling for help, and taking precautions, you can handle the situation responsibly. Remember to prioritize your safety above all else and rely on the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired to minimize the inconvenience of a car breakdown. For more info on safe teen driving, check out this resource from AAA. With the right approach, you’ll be back on the road in no time. Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive is always here to help if you find yourself in a bind. Call us at (316)-945-3414.
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