|
A recent news story highlighted once again how deadly stopping at the side of the highway is. A man stopped on the 400 this week to change a tire was struck from behind and killed. It is a sad fact that when you stop at side of the road/on the shoulder you immediately become a target. It can be very difficult for drivers travelling at speed to determine you are stopped on the side of the road rather than moving in a live lane, particularly at night or in poor weather.
If you must stop on the highway experts recommend that you:
-
Get to the right hand shoulder and call for help.
-
Call 911 if you are stranded on the highway to alert police.
-
If you cannot get off the road DO NOT get out of your car. Keep windows rolled up and seatbelts on.
-
If it is not safe to remain in your car get out and walk as far away from the highway as you can up onto the shoulder of the highway.
-
If it is safe - place your flares / warning triangle some distance behind your car.
-
If it is night time turn all lights interior and exterior as well as your hard lights on.
-
Hang a scarf or cloth out the window to signal you are in need of aid.
-
If you have a flat tire at the side of the road SO NOT attempt to change it yourself. Call a tow truck.
|
