Auto Breakdown?

If you run out of gas or your car breaks down on a highway, you can take several steps to make sure your wait for help is a safe one.

Preparation and prevention

• Take out membership in a roadside assistance program. Many new cars come with them.
• Purchase a cell phone for emergencies.
• Keep your car in good operating condition.
• Carry safety triangles or flares.
• Keep the spare tire in good condition.
• Know your route and don't risk getting lost.

Break down

• Guide the car to as safe a location as possible, as far off the road as you can.
• Raise the car's hood and place a handkerchief in the driver's window to signal a breakdown.
• If safety is a concern, stay in the car, lock the doors, and call for help.
• If people offer assistance, have them call law enforcement. Never accept a ride.
• Take cab fare and pay-phone change

A fatal accident

Even though a driver pulled far onto a shoulder when he ran out of gas, he was killed when his van was struck by a tractor-trailer that wandered off the road. The deceased's wife and children filed suit and received a postverdict settlement after their attorney demonstrated that the truck driver had falsified his driving logs and was driving while fatigued.