Being in a car accident in Hollywood or South Florida can be a problem, leading to serious injury. However, there are other dangers on the road, too. For example, if your car breaks down on a highway or major road, you could be at risk of a secondary accident, pedestrian accident, and other injuries.
If you ever find your car breaking down on a major road or highway, there are a few things you will want to do to reduce your risk:
1) Stay calm.
While your initial reaction may be to panic, try to stay as calm as possible and think rationally. Making rash choices could put you at further risk or cause a secondary accident.
2) Evaluate your situation.
Did someone rear end you? If someone did, are they acting aggressively or in an unusual way which makes you feel unsafe? If so, lock your doors, stay in the car, and call 911 or do whatever you can to stay safe. If your car has simply died, evaluate your location and your likely next steps. Check obvious systems to see whether you can get the car started again. Try turning the engine on an off to see if your car will restart.
3) Pull over.
As quickly and as safely as you can, pull onto the highway shoulder or off the road. Try to stay on even ground and use your signal to alert any surrounding drivers of your presence. Get as far away from traffic as you can.
If for some reason you are unable to pull off the road, turn on your flashing lights. If you feel you’re in danger or may be in danger by getting out of your vehicle, stay in the car. Otherwise, determine whether it’s safer to try to get to safety.
4) Stay visible.
Whether you decide to stay in the car or get out and walk to a nearby service station, make sure other motorists and see you to avoid being hit. Leave your four-way flashers on or carry your flashlight, phone, or a reflecteive item of clothing to stay visible as you walk.
5) Call for help
depending on your situation, call for roadside assistance, your rental company, 911, or a police or non-emergency number. At the very least, contact a friend or family member to alert them of your location. Let someone know where you are. Even if you decide to walk to a nearby service station, make sure someone knows where you’re going and when you will check in.
6) Stay alert.
As you seek help or wait for help, actively scan the area around you and be aware of your surroundings. If a tow truck arrives, make sure it is from the company you called. If you are waiting for assistance, note down the licence plate number and any other identifying information of the person who stops to help. Always trust your instincts and use common sense to stay safe. Err on the side of caution and wait for help you trust.
Have you been injured after being in a car accident or after your car has broken down? You may have a legal claim against property owners, the municipality where the breakdown happened, the manufacturer of a defective car part, and other liable parties. To find out more and to find out how much your claim may be worth, Contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation with a Hollywood car accident attorney.