If your car suddenly stops running and you find yourself in the middle of the road, it is best to move your car out of the way. This is for your own safety as well as the safety of passing motorists. Learn to safely move a stranded car and know what to do next time you find yourself stuck.
Turn on your hazard lights if possible. If not, raise the hood of your car or tie something to the antenna to alert police and passers-by that you need help.
Notify the police. If you have a cell phone, call the police and let them know you are stranded. This is especially important if you are on a busy highway and are unable to exit your car. If you have a road-side assistance service, call them and ask for help.
Wait for help to arrive and determine your next move. Once help arrives, assess the situation. If your car is stranded near the shoulder and traffic is light, a few people can safely move the car by pushing it. Put the car in neutral and keep your foot on the brake. When your helpers are ready to push the car, let off the brake as they push from the back of the vehicle. Steer your car to the shoulder as your help continues to push it. Step on the brake and put your car in park once you safely reach the shoulder.
Call a tow truck. If you are stranded on a very busy highway and your car is located a good distance from the shoulder, calling a tow truck may be your best bet. Stay in the car until the tow truck arrives to help you safely move it.
