Mechanical problems can be unfortunately common in cold weather as well as during the odd time where the cold turns warm, as different areas of your vehicle may be affected. It is important to know what to do if you break down far from home when it’s freezing outside.
Stay Warm
Stay warm in any way you can, but make sure to do it in a safe way. If you can keep your heating on every so often, it can help you stay warm, but this isn’t always possible if your car won’t start. Make sure to keep a blanket and some winter clothes packed away in case you need them. If your vehicle is running, keep it well insulated in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Clear snow away from your exhaust pipe and crack the windows.
If you have enough gas, consider revving your engine every so often to keep warm.
Call For Help
Obviously, you will want to contact someone as soon as possible. If you have a cellphone with you, call someone nearby or emergency services immediately. You should consider having an extra phone charger that does not require a cord. If you have a phone charger with a cord, try to keep your vehicle running long enough to charge your phone and call for help.
Keep an Emergency Kit
You should always have an emergency kit in your vehicle no matter what time of year it is. An emergency kit can help you in case you break down and need help or are injured.
As you normally would, have a spare tire and tools to help you repair a flat tire. In your emergency kit, you should have:
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- Pocket warmers or hand warmers
Clear The Windows
Keep your windows as clear of snow as you can so that you can see cars passing by. This is especially important as you wait on help or if you are on the side of a busy road or highway. It can help other people see that there is someone inside the vehicle.
Don’t Try Shoveling Yourself Out
Trying to shovel yourself out if you are stuck in the snow can wear you out and cause more harm than good, as you run the risk of burying yourself deeper. Clear snow away from your windows and exhaust pipe and remain inside the vehicle if possible.
Stay Inside if Possible
If you can, remain in the vehicle both to keep warm and keep safe. If you find yourself walking in the cold after your vehicle breaks down, keep a scarf or shirt tied around your nose and mouth to trap heat and protect your breathing. Only walk if you have a destination in mind. Wandering around looking for help can get you lost and put you in danger. Only walk if you can clearly see a safe, indoor location such as a store where you may be able to warm up and receive help.
That said, it is also important to make sure it is still safe within your vehicle. If your vehicle is smoking with gray or black smoke, it may no longer be safe and you should distance yourself to remain safe. Call emergency services immediately.
Check Your Car Insurance Policy
Before an accident ever occurs, make sure to double check your car insurance policy. Not all policies are the same and it is important to ensure that you have the right amount of insurance to cover damages in case of a breakdown or other issue caused by the cold.
Many full coverage auto insurance policies also include roadside assistance, which can help you in the case you break down on the side of the road. It can often include towing and temporary transportation so that you don’t have to remain in the cold after your vehicle breaks down.
In particular, take a look at the comprehensive coverage on your car insurance policy. Comprehensive coverage provides compensation for damages to your vehicle caused by a variety of dangers such as fire, wind, hail, lightning, smoke, theft and vandalism. Ask your Sebrite agent about what is and isn’t covered under your comprehensive coverage in case you have to file a claim after an accident or breaking down in the cold.
It is most important, however, to be prepared and stay safe.