Off-road recovery (continued)
- Check for traffic before attempting to steer the vehicle back onto the road.
- With controlled speed, return to the road gradually and straighten your vehicle in the proper travel lane. Gradual return to the roadway.
Vehicle mechanical problems
It is important to keep your vehicle working properly. If your vehicle breaks down while you are driving, it can be dangerous as well as inconvenient. If your vehicle is having mechanical problems that require you to stop, remember the following for your safety:
- Change lanes safely and park in a safe location, if possible.
- Do not stop on a bridge or in a tunnel. This can be very dangerous.
- If the vehicle is left in a potentially dangerous location, turn on your hazard lights (four-way flashers).
- Raise your hood.
- Carry reflective triangles. On the highway or in a location that is potentially dangerous, safely place reflective triangles to the rear of your vehicle, about 10 to 20 metres (33 to 66 feet) apart.
- Do not try to do roadside repairs on crowded or fast-moving highways.
- If it is a potentially dangerous situation, have all occupants leave the vehicle and wait at a safe location to the rear and away from the vehicle, as shown in the diagram.
Move away from the vehicle while waiting for help.
If a motorist stops to offer help, you could ask them to call for assistance.
Brake failure
Most vehicles come with a brake system that will protect you against a total failure of your brakes. A warning light on your instrument panel will light if there is a problem. It should light before your brakes stop working. When you see the brake warning light come on, and you have checked that the park brake has been released, move to the side of the road as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you have a vehicle with power brakes, the power system could fail. This may occur if your engine stops while you are still moving. If the vehicle does not slow with normal pressure on the brake, push the brake pedal harder and apply steady pressure.
If your brakes fail, and your wheels are not turned, carefully use your park brake to slow your vehicle. You may be able to shift to a lower gear to bring your vehicle to a safe and controlled stop. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for more information.