Running out of gas on a highway can be a frustrating and even dangerous situation. It’s important to stay calm and take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers.
Here are five tips to remember if your car runs out of gas on the highway.
1. Call For Help Immediately
The first thing to do if you run out of gas on the highway is to call for help immediately. If you have a roadside tow service, call them and let them know your location.
If you don’t have a roadside assistance service, call your local police department and let them know your situation. They may be able to send a patrol car to help you or connect you with a towing service.
2. Move to a Safe Location
If possible, move your car to a safe location before calling for help. If you’re on a busy highway, try to get to the shoulder of the road as quickly as possible. Make sure to turn on your hazard lights so that other drivers can see you.
If you can’t get to the shoulder, try to get as far to the right side of the road as possible. It’s important to stay in your car and not attempt to walk to a gas station or other location, as this can be very dangerous.
3. Use Your Cell Phone to Get Directions
If you’re not familiar with the area where you’ve run out of gas, use your cell phone to get directions to the nearest gas station. Most smartphones have built-in maps and navigation apps that can help you find your way.
If you don’t have a smartphone, call the police department or towing service and ask for directions. Make sure to let them know if you have any special needs, such as if you’re traveling with children or pets.
4. Stay with Your Car
It’s important to stay with your car while you wait for help to arrive. This is especially true if you’re in an unfamiliar area or if it’s late at night. If you have to use the restroom, try to find a gas station or other public facility nearby. Don’t leave your car unattended, as this can make it more vulnerable to theft or damage.
5. Take Steps to Prevent Future Problems
Once you’ve gotten help and filled up your gas tank, take steps to prevent future problems. Make sure to keep your gas tank at least half full at all times, especially if you’re traveling long distances.
It’s also a good idea to keep a spare gas can in your trunk, just in case you run out of gas again. If you’re planning a long road trip, make sure to bring along a map or navigation system, and let someone know your travel plans in case of an emergency.
Conclusion
Running out of gas on the highway can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation, but there are steps you can take to stay safe and get help quickly. Remember to call for help immediately, move to a safe location, use your cell phone to get directions, stay with your car, and take steps to prevent future problems. By following these tips, you can ensure that you stay safe and get back on the road as quickly as possible.
If you find yourself stranded on the side of the road, don’t panic. Tow Atlanta offers 24-hour towing in Atlanta, GA, and we’ll be there to help you in no time. Get in touch with us today to learn how.