Top Tips On What To Do In The Event Of A Roadside Breakdown
Nothing spoils a journey quite like a breakdown. Whether it’s on your daily commute or a long-awaited road trip, being stranded on the side of the road can leave you feeling frustrated, helpless, and, quite frankly, a little panicked!
It’s important to know what to do in a breakdown situation, so here are some tips to ensure you stay calm and collected, and most importantly, get the help you need.
Preparation Is Key
Much like when doctors tell you that prevention is better than cure, the same applies in the case of your car. You want to be sure that you prep your car in such a way that you can deal with whatever life throws at you. That includes packing things like a flashlight, first-aid kit, reflective triangle, power bank and perhaps even some water (for you and the car).
One of the best ways to be prepared, however, is to keep your car is properly maintained. Stay up to date with your services and, if you have any concerns before your next service, take it to a reputable dealer to have it checked out.
Then, before you set off on your journey, check your coverage. Some insurance companies offer emergency help and other benefits, and you’ll want to have those contact details on hand in case you need assistance.
When you’ve partnered with Matrix, you’ll have Roadside Assist and Medical Assist with you 24/7 – all on your Matrix Vehicle Tracking app. All you need to do is open that app, tap, tap, tap, and help is on the way – wherever you are.
You’ve Broken Down. Now what?
The most important thing to do if your car breaks down is to get yourself into the safest situation possible. Pull over as best you can so that you aren’t obstructing traffic (or putting yourself in harm’s way). Switch on your hazards and put your reflective triangle a couple of metres behind your car. Don’t open your bonnet as it might block your view and you won’t be able to see if anyone is approaching.
Once your car is safely out of the way, you should request assistance. Remember those roadside assist numbers you saved? Now’s the time to call them. Take note of your location and any other details you can provide to help them find your quickly and easily. If you’re with Matrix, you can use your super handy app to do the same – and best of all, we already know exactly where you are.
Unfortunately, with crime rates being what they are, you can never take your personal security too lightly. Be sure to stay in your car with your doors and windows locked until help arrives. Don’t wait outside your car, or flag down other drivers, and don’t attempt to do any repairs yourself.
Try to stay calm while you wait for help to arrive.
What else should I know?
You need to take careful note of your surroundings and be especially vigilant for any suspicious behaviour.
If you’ve broken down in a remote or less than savoury place and are feeling unsafe or threatened, you can use the Matrix panic alert remote button to send a silent distress signal via a remote to request emergency or roadside assistance in a real vehicle related emergency.
If your car needs to be towed, make sure you request a quote upfront so that you aren’t surprised by a massive bill later.
Matrix Is There For You
Matrix is there for you when you need it most, taking the sting out of those little inconveniences like a breakdown that threaten to ruin your day. Let Matrix take care of you so that you can live your life.
Think Matrix for safety. Think Matrix for support. Think Matrix for life.
