How to Stay Safe While Waiting for a Tow Truck

Getting stranded on the side of the road is never fun, but knowing how to stay safe while waiting for a tow truck can make all the difference. Whether you’ve had a breakdown, a flat tire, or an accident, taking the right precautions can protect you from oncoming traffic, bad weather, and other risks.

At Brady’s Towing and Roadside Assistance, safety is our top priority. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe until help arrives.

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1. Pull Over to a Safe Location

If your car is still drivable, move it to a safe spot away from traffic before calling for a tow.

✔ Highway or busy road? Exit if possible or pull onto the shoulder as far as you can.
✔ Residential or city street? Park in a legal, well-lit area.
✔ Intersections or curves? Move beyond the curve so drivers can see you from a distance.

Tip: If your car is blocking traffic and can’t be moved, turn on your hazard lights immediately and stay inside your vehicle until it’s safe to exit.

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2. Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Hazard lights alert other drivers that your vehicle is disabled. Turn them on as soon as you pull over, especially if you’re on the side of a busy road or in low-visibility conditions like fog or rain.

✔ Day or night: Keep hazards flashing until the tow truck arrives.
✔ Extreme conditions: If it’s dark or raining, turn on your interior dome light for added visibility.

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3. Stay Inside Your Vehicle If It’s Safe

On busy roads, staying inside your vehicle is often the safest option. Many accidents happen when people stand too close to moving traffic.

✔ Lock your doors for added security.
✔ Only exit if absolutely necessary, like if your car is smoking or in danger.
✔ If you must exit, do so carefully on the passenger side, away from traffic.

Did You Know? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrians on the roadside are at high risk of accidents—so staying in your car is usually the best choice.

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4. Call for Help and Stay in Touch

Once you’ve safely pulled over, call Brady’s Towing and Roadside Assistance or your roadside service provider.

✔ Give clear details: Provide your location, vehicle description, and the issue.
✔ Confirm the ETA: Ask how long the tow truck will take to arrive.
✔ Stay reachable: Keep your phone charged and accessible.

Safety Tip: If someone claiming to be a tow truck driver arrives but you didn’t call them, don’t accept service. Always confirm the company name and request ID before allowing anyone to tow your vehicle.

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5. Make Yourself Visible

If you have emergency gear in your car, use it to increase visibility for other drivers and the tow truck.

✔ Roadside flares or reflective triangles: Place them several feet behind your vehicle.
✔ Bright clothing or flashlight: If you must step out, wear something reflective or use a flashlight.

Pro Tip: Always keep an emergency kit in your car with these essentials, especially if you drive at night or in rural areas.

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6. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Whether you're waiting in your car or outside, be mindful of what’s happening around you.

✔ Watch for traffic: Stay alert for speeding vehicles, especially on highways.
✔ Stay cautious of strangers: While some people may want to help, it's safer to wait for official roadside assistance.
✔ If you feel unsafe, call 911.

Reminder: Never accept a ride from a stranger while waiting for a tow truck. If you feel uncomfortable, lock your doors and stay on the phone with a trusted contact.

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7. Prepare for Weather Conditions

Weather can make waiting for a tow truck more difficult. Be prepared for extreme conditions:

✔ Hot weather: Stay hydrated, crack windows for ventilation, and avoid direct sun.
✔ Cold weather: Keep blankets in your car, run the heater in short bursts, and avoid carbon monoxide buildup by clearing snow from the exhaust pipe.
✔ Rain or storms: Stay inside and use hazard lights to increase visibility.

Winter Tip: If you’re stuck in snow, use floor mats under your tires to gain traction while waiting for a tow.

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Final Thoughts

No one plans to have a roadside emergency, but knowing how to stay safe while waiting for a tow truck can make a big difference.

✔ Pull over to a safe location
✔ Turn on hazard lights and stay visible
✔ Stay inside your vehicle if safe
✔ Call for help and verify your tow truck
✔ Be aware of traffic, strangers, and weather conditions

If you ever find yourself stranded, Brady’s Towing and Roadside Assistance is here to help—24/7!

Need a tow? Call us now!