Breaking down on the road with a heavy-duty truck can be stressful, especially when you’re stuck in a precarious location. While waiting for a tow truck, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to protect yourself and others on the road. That’s why this month, one of your trusted Nashua towing companies, D&R Towing, is here with some essential tips to keep you safe while waiting for your heavy-duty tow truck to arrive.
Move to a Safe Location
If your truck is still drivable, your first step should be to move to the safest location possible. Ideally, pull over to the shoulder of the road, but if you’re on a busy highway, try to exit the road completely. Stopping in a visible and safe area reduces the risk of a collision with passing vehicles.
Activate Hazard Lights
As soon as you begin to experience trouble, turn on your hazard lights. These lights alert other drivers to your situation, signaling them to slow down and give you space. This is especially important at night or during bad weather when visibility is low.
Set Up Safety Markers
If you have reflective triangles or road flares, set them up behind your truck to create a safety buffer. Place one about 10 feet behind your vehicle, another 100 feet back, and the third 200 feet back. This warns other drivers of your presence, giving them plenty of time to adjust their speed or change lanes.
Stay Inside Your Vehicle
Unless there’s an immediate danger, it’s safer to stay inside your truck with your seatbelt fastened. The cabin provides protection from traffic and weather, However, if you must exit, do so on the side away from traffic and stay as far from the road as possible.
Prepare for the Elements
If you’re in extreme weather and you are able to do so, use your truck’s climate control to stay comfortable. Run the engine periodically to keep warm in cold weather but be mindful of carbon monoxide if your exhaust is blocked by snow. In hot weather, stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary exertion.
D&R Towing | Nashua Towing Companies
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that you remain safe while waiting for a heavy-duty tow truck to arrive.
For more information on our services, give one of your trusted Nashua towing companies a call today.
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