Experiencing a vehicle breakdown is stressful for any driver, especially when it happens unexpectedly on a busy highway or remote road. For those driving semi-trucks, trailers, or other large commercial vehicles, the situation can become even more complex due to the size and weight of the vehicle. Knowing how to handle an emergency breakdown is crucial for ensuring your safety and minimizing downtime. In this blog, we’ll discuss essential steps to take if you find yourself dealing with a breakdown on the road, how to stay safe, and who to contact for help. At Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL, we understand the challenges of breakdowns, and with over 40 years of experience, we’re here to help you navigate these situations professionally and efficiently.
Move to a Safe Location
The first and most important step when experiencing an emergency breakdown is to move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible. If you’re driving a semi-truck or trailer, safely pulling over to the shoulder of the road or an emergency lane is critical. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are experiencing a problem and need space.
If you are on a busy highway, avoid stopping on curves or blind spots where visibility is reduced. In some cases, your vehicle may not be able to be moved at all. If this happens, do your best to guide it off the road to prevent blocking traffic, but only if it’s safe to do so. Remember, your safety is the top priority. Stay calm and ensure that you are in a position that doesn’t put you, your vehicle, or others at further risk.
Make Your Vehicle Visible
Once you’ve safely moved to the side of the road, the next step is to make sure your vehicle is as visible as possible to other drivers. This is particularly important if your breakdown happens at night, in poor weather conditions, or in a high-traffic area. Along with keeping your hazard lights on, you should also deploy reflective triangles or flares if you have them. Place these warning devices behind your vehicle, spacing them at intervals to give approaching traffic adequate time to react.
Semi-truck drivers are required by law to carry reflective triangles, and using them is crucial for maintaining road safety. Always place these triangles far enough away from your vehicle—generally around 100 feet—to give other drivers a clear warning of your presence. The more visible you make your vehicle, the less likely you are to be involved in a secondary accident.
Stay Inside the Vehicle (If Safe)
While it may seem natural to step outside your vehicle after a breakdown, it is often safer to remain inside, especially if you are on a busy highway or in a dangerous location. Getting out of your vehicle can expose you to moving traffic, which can be particularly hazardous if the road is narrow or if visibility is poor.
If you must exit the vehicle to place warning devices or inspect the problem, always do so with extreme caution. Keep your seatbelt fastened while you are inside, and stay alert to the surrounding traffic. It’s important to remain inside your vehicle unless the situation dictates otherwise, such as in the case of smoke, fire, or an unsafe environment. In those cases, exit the vehicle and move to a safe distance until help arrives.
Call for Professional Help
After ensuring your safety and making your vehicle visible to others, your next step is to contact a professional for assistance. When it comes to commercial vehicles like semi-trucks and trailers, you want to work with a service provider that specializes in handling large vehicles. Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL, has over 40 years of experience in dealing with breakdowns and repairs for commercial trucks, trailers, and diesel-fueled vehicles.
You can contact our team when you need us most. Our certified mechanics can assess the situation and provide fast, effective solutions to get you back on the road as soon as possible. If you have roadside assistance through your company or insurance provider, contact them immediately to dispatch help. Be prepared to provide your location, a description of your vehicle, and details about the issue you’re facing. In some cases, roadside repairs may be possible, while other times, a tow to a nearby repair shop may be necessary.
Stay Calm and Plan Ahead
While breakdowns are never convenient, they can be managed more effectively if you stay calm and follow a clear plan. Part of this plan should involve being prepared before you even hit the road. Carry essential tools and safety equipment, such as reflective triangles, a basic tool kit, and emergency supplies, so that you’re ready for any unexpected issues.
Having a list of professional service providers, like Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc., on hand can also make a world of difference. Knowing who to call when you need help reduces stress and ensures that you receive prompt, professional assistance. It’s also a good idea to check your vehicle’s condition regularly through preventative maintenance to avoid breakdowns before they happen.
Trust Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. for Expert Help
Handling an emergency breakdown situation can be overwhelming, but by taking the right steps, you can protect yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road. Moving to a safe location, making your vehicle visible, staying inside when possible, calling for professional help, and remaining calm are all critical actions that can make a difficult situation more manageable.
If you’re in need of expert repair or maintenance services for your semi-truck, trailer, or diesel-fueled vehicle, don’t hesitate to contact Decatur Trailer Sales & Service, Inc. in Decatur, IL. With over 40 years of experience, our certified technicians are equipped to provide the quality service you need to get back on the road safely. Call 217.422.7179 today to schedule your next service and ensure that your vehicle is in top condition for every journey.
