Roadside Emergencies
Well, Sgt. Eaton, we’re not sure we’ve ever heard of the Roscoe the Rooster statue, but there are still good tips here on what to do if your car breaks down while you’re on your way to see it! #TrafficTipTuesday
“So, picture this. You’re out with your family on a leisurely Sunday drive, heading down to Takoma Park Maryland to see the Roscoe the Rooster statue when out of nowhere; BLAMMO! Your vehicle breaks down. Now you are stranded and your dreams of a selfie with Roscoe will have to wait. The most important thing you can do in this situation is do not panic! Vehicle breakdowns can be managed if you just follow a few simple steps.
First off, you should prepare your vehicle BEFORE leaving for your trip. Preventative maintenance can help avoid dangerous vehicle breakdowns. Check your tire pressure. Top off the windshield washer fluid. Check the engine belts and hoses for signs of wear. Make sure you have enough fuel to get to your destination. You will also want to keep an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle.
Step two is to assess the situation. If your vehicle breaks down (or gets a flat tire), try to get off the travel portion of the roadway. Use the shoulder if you can. If you are able to get your vehicle safely into a nearby parking lot, that is even better. Once you are stopped in a safe location, you want to immediately call for help.
Step three is to use good judgment. If you are safely off the roadway, it is usually best to stay in your vehicle and leave your seatbelt on until help arrives. This will protect you if another driver hits the back of your car. If for some reason you are not able to stay in your vehicle, check the roadway and exit only when it is safe. Try to get yourself behind a guardrail or some other form of protective barrier. You never want to stand right next to your vehicle.
While pre-trip planning is helpful, sometimes a breakdown can not be avoided. Just make sure, if this does happen to you, you never want to walk across a busy highway. Leave the crossing the road to Roscoe.
https://zerodeathsmd.gov/how-you…/roadside-emergencies/
As always, if you have a question or concern, please leave it in the comments below. Also, if you have a specific concern with unsafe driving in your area, such as speeding, drag racing, etc., give us a call, send an email, or reach out on social media. Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely
HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org
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