If you are in an accident or your car breaks down, safety should be your first concern. Take the following precautions when your car breaks down:

1.  Stay inside your car. Never get out of the vehicle to make a repair or examine the damage on a busy highway. Under most circumstances standing outside the vehicle in the flow of traffic is a bad idea. However, in a case where the car is on fire, it is best to get out of your vehicle and as far away from it as possible.

2.  Move to a safer place. Get the vehicle to a safe place before getting out. If you've been involved in an accident, motion the other driver to pull up to a safe spot ahead. In the case of a blowout or a flat tire, move the vehicle to a safer place before attempting a repair—even if it means destroying the wheel getting there. The cost of a tire, rim or wheel is minor compared to endangering your safety.

3.  Call or signal for help. If you cannot  drive the vehicle to a safe place, it is better to stay in your car and wait for help or use a cell phone to summon help. Alternatively, place a “Call Police” sign in your side or rear window (not the windshield).

4.  Warn other drivers. Carry flares or triangles to mark your location once you get to the side of the road. It is critical to mark your vehicle’s location in order to give other drivers advance warning. Also, remember to put on your hazard lights.