What to Do When Your Car Is Out of Control

Vehicles are much safer than they were even a decade ago. Advancements are being made in motor vehicle technology all the time, from safer antilock brakes to radar collision detection and avoidance systems. Yet, it’s still possible to lose control of your car. Every driver must know how to respond, just in case it happens.

Your brakes have failed.

A complete failure of the brakes is usually caused by brake pad wear and tear or depleted brake fluid. But sometimes, the brake pedal won’t depress. First, check to make sure nothing has rolled under the pedal. If so, remove the object. If the brake pedal depresses but won’t slow the car, drivers of cars with manual transmissions should hit the clutch and drop to successively lower gears. Drivers of any type of transmission can also pump the brakes hard and rapidly about four times. This may help build up brake fluid pressure and activate the brakes. If it doesn’t work, you’ll need to use the emergency brake. If nothing else works or you’re about to hit something, steer the car in the safest direction possible and allow it to come to a stop. Put on your four-way flashers and honk to alert other drivers to your situation.

Your car starts hydroplaning.

Hydroplaning can occur in monsoon season. A sudden downpour causes significant water buildup on the road, which causes the tires to lose contact with the road. You’ll feel a sudden loss of control. The best way to deal with hydroplaning is to stay calm. Keep the steering wheel straight and take your foot off the gas, but don’t slam on the brakes. If you have antilock brakes, you can brake carefully, with steady pressure. If you have regular brakes, use very gentle pumps, not steady pressure.

Although following this guidance may help you prevent an accident, not all accidents are avoidable. Barnett’s Towing is available around the clock to come to your aid wherever you may be in Arizona. Keep our number in your phone’s contact list for speedy service: (800) 722-2302.