Roadside emergencies can happen unexpectedly, but being prepared and knowing what to do can make a big difference, especially in trucking. We are going to arm you with some essential tips to ensure you are well-prepared and confident to tackle any roadside emergency head-on.
1. Safety First
Pull your truck over to a safe location, ideally completely off the road and onto the shoulder, as soon as possible. Use hazard lights to alert other drivers. Use reflective triangles or flares to increase visibility, especially at night or in low visibility conditions.
2. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first, take a deep breath. Panicking won’t help you or the situation. Assessing the situation calmly will help you make better decisions. Determine the nature of the problem. Is it a flat tire, engine trouble, overheating, or something else?
3. Contact Roadside Assistance
Contact your company’s dispatch or roadside assistance immediately to report the issue. Provide your location, a brief description of the problem, and any other relevant details.
Roadside Assistance services typically include:
- Towing Services for Mechanical or Electrical Breakdowns
- Battery Failure – Testing/Jump Start
- Flat Tire – Repair/Replacement
- Lockout Assistance
- Fuel/Fluid Delivery
Make sure your roadside assistance coverage includes all of these services (and more) to make your job a little more stress-free.
4. Be Prepared with an Emergency Kit
Keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your truck can be a lifesaver.
Your kit should include items such as road flares, a first-aid kit, water, non-perishable snacks, flashlights with extra batteries, and basic repair tools. Keep your phone charged and have emergency contact numbers, including roadside assistance services, readily available.
5. Stay Safe and Stay with Your Vehicle
Naturally, there might be a temptation to fix everything yourself. But it is essential to know when a situation is beyond your expertise.
Never attempt repairs on the side of a busy highway or in an unsafe location. Your safety and the safety of other drivers is top priority. If you have to leave your vehicle (e.g., for safety reasons), be sure to lock it and take your phone and essential items with you.
6. Document the Incident
Take photos of the scene, including any damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area. This documentation may be helpful for insurance claims or legal purposes.
7. Stay Informed
Stay updated on the progress of assistance. If there are any changes or delays, communicate with your company or roadside assistance provider.
8. Know When to Call for Help
Once you’ve secured professional help in getting your vehicle off the road, your next priority should be scheduling a service appointment to find out what went wrong.
At Coopersburg Kenworth, our Service Center has everything you need to get your truck back on the road quickly. From oil changes and brake jobs to engine overhauls and warranty work, we do it all here at Coopersburg & Liberty Kenworth. We also have a Body Shop! Schedule your appointment online, by phone, or in-person.
Remember, being prepared and knowing how to respond effectively can make all the difference in a roadside emergency. Stay safe out there!
Learn more about Kenworth’s PremierCare Service: https://kenworth.com/parts-and-service/premiercare/ or click here.
Contact us or visit our locations, here: Coopersburg Kenworth, Liberty Kenworth of Swedesboro, TRP Pottstown, and Liberty Kenworth of Bristol.