Know How to Handle Emergencies

There are many types of emergencies you may encounter when you drive. Knowing how to handle emergencies can help keep you safe.

Tire Blowout

If you have a tire blowout, do not panic or overreact. Suddenly braking or abruptly removing your foot from the accelerator can result in a loss of control over the vehicle. Instead, you should take the following steps recommended by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Hold the steering wheel with both hands.
• Maintain your vehicle speed if possible and safe.
• Gradually release the accelerator.
• Correct the steering as necessary to stabilize your vehicle and regain control.
• Look and steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go.
• Once your vehicle has stabilized, continue to slow down and pull off the road where and when it’s safe.

Driving Off the Pavement

If your wheels drift off the pavement:

1. Grip the steering wheel firmly.
2. Remove your foot from the accelerator.
3. Brake gently.
4. Check for traffic behind you.
5. Carefully steer back onto the pavement.

Do not pull or turn your steering wheel with too much force. This may cause you to drive into oncoming traffic.

Overheating Conditions

In extreme heat, you should:

• Watch the temperature gauge.
• Avoid driving at high speeds for long periods.
• Turn off the air conditioner.

In extreme cold, you should:

• Watch the temperature gauge. The engine may not have the correct level of antifreeze.
• Use the defroster or slightly open your windows to keep them from fogging up.

If Your Vehicle Becomes Disabled on the Freeway

If your vehicle stops working on the freeway:

1. Safely pull over to the right shoulder.
2. Exit on the right side so you are away from traffic if you must get out of the vehicle.
3. Dial 511 from your cell phone or locate call box for assistance..
4. Return to your vehicle as soon as you can. Get back into the vehicle from the right side (away from traffic).
5. Stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt on until help arrives.
6. Use your emergency flashers at your discretion. They can help other vehicles see you at night and in different weather conditions.

There are certain circumstances where it is safer to get out of your vehicle and stay away. These include situations where there is:

• Not enough space on the shoulder.
• A guardrail.
• An area for you to safely stay away from freeway lanes.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) Freeway Service Patrol (FSP)

During commute times, the CHP FSP provides free emergency roadside services in certain areas. If you get stuck on the freeway because your vehicle stops running, FSP will:

• Provide a gallon of gas if you run out.
• Jump start your vehicle if the battery is dead.
• Refill your radiator and tape hoses.
• Change a flat tire.
• Report a collision to CHP.

If FSP cannot start your vehicle, they will have it towed (free of charge) to a CHP-approved location. CHP will notify an auto club or towing service.

FSP will not:

• Tow your vehicle to a private repair service or residence.
• Recommend tow service companies or repair and body shops.
• Tow motorcycles.
• Help vehicles which have been involved in a collision, unless they are directed to by CHP.

Call 511 for FSP information and assistance.

Disabled Vehicles on Railroad Tracks

If your vehicle stalls or stops while blocking part of a train track with a train approaching and warning lights flashing:

• Immediately exit your vehicle. Run away from the tracks diagonally in the direction the train is coming from. Then call 911.

If you do not see a train approaching and warning lights are not flashing:

• Exit your vehicle. Dial the number located on the railroad crossing posts or metal control box near the tracks. Provide the crossing number (if posted). Tell them a vehicle is on the tracks. Then call 911.