What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down With Kids in the Vehicle

Car breakdowns are never convenient, but when you have kids in the vehicle, the stress level can skyrocket. Knowing how to handle the situation calmly and efficiently can keep everyone safe and reduce anxiety. Here’s what to do if your car breaks down with kids in the vehicle, along with essential tips to ensure a smooth outcome.

What is in this Article?

1. Prioritize Safety First: Immediately move to a safe location, turn on hazard lights, and keep children calm by reassuring them that help is on the way.
   
2. Call for Help Strategically: Contact roadside assistance, search for a car towing service, and use car GPS tracking to stay informed while waiting for help.
   
3. Stay Prepared for Future Breakdowns: Maintain regular vehicle inspections, keep an emergency kit with essentials for kids, and consider investing in immediate breakdown cover for added peace of mind.

I. Assess the Situation and Ensure Immediate Safety

If your car breaks down on a highway, you should prioritize safety above all else. Immediately turn on your hazard lights to signal to other drivers that you are experiencing an issue. Safely steer the vehicle to the shoulder or a secure area away from traffic. Keep the kids calm by explaining that help is on the way.

If it’s not safe to exit the vehicle, stay inside and lock the doors. If you can safely exit, move the kids to a safe distance away from traffic, ideally behind a guardrail or a protective barrier. If you have an emergency roadside kit, use cones, flares, or reflective triangles to alert other drivers.

II. Contact Help and Communicate Your Location

Once everyone is safe, the next step is to call for assistance. If you’re on a highway, knowing who to call when your car breaks down is crucial. Dial 911 if you feel unsafe or if the vehicle is obstructing traffic. Otherwise, contact roadside assistance or search for a reliable car towing near service for immediate support.

Clearly communicate your location and inform the dispatcher that you have children in the vehicle. This can expedite the response and ensure that the necessary resources are sent to assist you quickly.

III. Keep the Kids Safe and Occupied While Waiting

Keeping kids calm and entertained during a breakdown can prevent further stress. Encourage them to stay seated and occupied with books, games, or electronic devices like car GPS tracking systems that can help you monitor the vehicle’s location and stay updated on the situation. If the weather is cold, wrap them in blankets to keep warm. If it’s hot, open the windows slightly to maintain airflow while waiting for help.

Explain what is happening in simple terms to reassure them. Let them know that assistance is on the way and that you are handling the situation.

IV. Addressing Common Breakdown Issues

Certain breakdown scenarios are more common than others, and knowing how to handle them can be a lifesaver:

• Flat Battery: If the car won’t start, avoid unnecessary attempts to restart it, as this can drain the battery further. Call for a jump start or mobile auto mechanic near you.
• Overheating Engine: If the temperature gauge rises, turn off the engine and avoid opening the hood until it cools down.
• Flat Tyre: If the car shakes when accelerating, a tyre issue may be the cause. Only attempt to change the tyre if you can do so safely and have the proper tools.

V. Prevent Future Breakdowns When Traveling with Kids

• Routine Maintenance: Regular vehicle inspections can prevent common breakdown issues like battery failure, tyre blowouts, and overheating.
• Emergency Kit: Keep a fully stocked emergency kit in the car, including water, snacks, a flashlight, and first aid supplies.
• Immediate Breakdown Cover: Investing in immediate breakdown cover can provide peace of mind, ensuring help is just a call away if a problem arises.

VI. Car Towing Near Me

If your car is beyond repair or unable to be safely driven, a towing service is often the best solution. Searching for ‘car towing near me’ can quickly connect you with local towing companies that offer immediate assistance.

When traveling with kids, consider services that provide child-friendly amenities or quicker response times. Additionally, some towing services specialize in transporting vehicles with child safety seats intact, ensuring your kids’ safety remains a priority during the tow.

Conclusion

Experiencing a car breakdown with kids in the vehicle can be a nerve-wracking experience. By following the steps above, you can handle the situation effectively while keeping your children safe and calm. Remember to have a plan, stay prepared, and know who to call when your car breaks down on a highway to get the fastest possible assistance.