When you’re on the road, it’s important to be prepared for anything, including an accidental or unexpected breakdown in the middle of an interstate highway. While this literal bump in the road can be a frustrating situation, there are several steps you can take to make a rig breakdown as painless as possible and get a tow truck on its way ASAP.
An Ounce of Prevention
A regular rig maintenance routine is the best way to avoid breakdowns. Before you head out for the day, make sure to conduct a thorough pre-check on your vehicle. Keep an eye out for any signs of malfunctions and attend to them as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to incorporate post-checks and on-route checks into your driving routine. This vigilance may seem repetitive, but it’s the only way to spot small issues that could transform into major problems if left unattended.
Always Be Prepared
While prevention is the best way to avoid breakdowns, even the most well-oiled of machines will need maintenance eventually. When your rig does break down, it’s essential to be prepared. Keep a roadside kit in your vehicle at all times and make sure it’s well stocked with essentials like a flashlight, spare clothes, non-perishable snacks, extra headlights, surplus oil, a tool kit, and flares.
Breakdown Checklist
If your rig does break down, there are a few simple steps you can take to mitigate damage and stress.
- Stay calm. Panicking will only make you feel more anxious and more likely to make hasty decisions.
- Ease off the road. Pull over as quickly as safety will allow.
- Assess the problem. Inspect your rig for any obvious problems.
- Let your dispatcher know. Call dispatch and inform them of the breakdown. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
If your rig has broken down in the Phoenix, AZ area, you can trust Barnett’s Towing to safely transport your vehicle to a repair shop. Our team is available 24 hours a day, so you can reach us at any time. For more information, call Barnett’s Towing at 1-800-722-2302 or send us a message here.
