WHAT TO DO IF YOU BREAK DOWN

If you are concerned about your car's performance and have the opportunity, get someone you know and trust to follow you until you reach a safe place.

If you don't have this opportunity, attempt to find a safe place to stop such as a service station, somewhere populated and/or a well lit area a safe distance from potential traffic hazards.

If you have a flat tyre think about driving slowly to a safe place to stop. Be aware that driving on a flat tyre will cause damage to the tyre and possible the wheel rim.

Check your location and what resources you have available, and decide on a plan of action before leaving the car. The best course of action will depend on the location, the time of day/night and, most importantly, your instincts.

If you are a considerable distance from a telephone or house, you could flag down a passer-by and ask for assistance. If you feel more comfortable, return to your vehicle, lock your car and talk through a partly opened window. Ask the motorist to call for help at the next available telephone. You will assist by providing written details including: your surname; the make and model of the car; registration number; breakdown service membership number; and exact location.

If you leave the car to seek assistance take the keys, lock all doors and secure your valuables.

Be aware of breakdown services that can be accessed throughout Queensland and interstate. Advise the service operator if you feel unsafe or threatened in any way, as there is generally a priority system for distress calls that can relay calls to the police immediately if necessary.

(Note: Break down services are for members only. If a non-member calls the club will generally assist with arranging for a service representative to attend at the caller's cost.)

Mobile phones and CB radios can be invaluable in an emergency, but are not within everyone's budget. If you have a CB and require assistance, don't broadcast that you are alone. Note also that mobile phones may not transmit in some country areas.

Decide where you feel safest to wait for assistance. This may be in your locked car, in a nearby shop or similarly populated area. Approaching an occupied house, or staying in a phone booth and calling a friend to talk with until the breakdown service arrives are also options. Tell the operator where you plan to wait, and the service representative can collect you from that location.

If you approach a nearby house for assistance - trust your instincts. You may feel more comfortable to stay outside and ask the occupant to call for help on your behalf. In this instance it is useful to provide your written details to the occupant.

Source: Qld Police website