PROJECT: A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO AVOIDING ROADSIDE BREAKDOWNS AND STAYING SAFE IF YOU ARE STRANDED

isabels39
May 29
5 min read

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In South Africa, where high crime rates intersect with deteriorating infrastructure, the prospect of being stranded along the roadside is more than just inconvenient; it is dangerous. Many roads, particularly in rural or under-resourced areas, are plagued by potholes, inadequate maintenance, and a lack of functioning streetlights, all of which increase the likelihood of vehicle breakdowns or accidents. In such conditions, motorists, especially women, solo drivers, or families with children, face heightened vulnerability to opportunistic crime, including hijackings, robberies, and assaults.

This reality makes it essential for drivers to take proactive steps to prevent breakdowns and to know exactly what to do should they find themselves stuck on the side of the road. This guide provides practical, safety-focused advice to help motorists navigate these risks with greater confidence and preparedness.

HOW TO AVOID BEING STRANDED ON THE ROADSIDE:

KEEP YOUR VEHICLE ROADWORTHY:
- Regular servicing is essential and drivers should adhere to the car’s service schedule to prevent engine, brake, and battery failure.
- Check tread depth and tyre pressure (including the spare) regularly.
- Replace old or weak batteries before they fail unexpectedly.
- Oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should be topped up and checked regularly.
- Make sure all lights work, especially if you drive at night.
PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT:
- Keep these in your boot:
  - Spare tyre, jack, and wheel spanner.
  - Jumper cables.
  - Torch with spare batteries.
  - Reflective triangle and reflective vest.
  - First aid kit.
  - Bottled water and basic snacks.
  - Power bank for your phone.
  - Blanket or towel (useful for shade or warmth).
USE TECHNOLOGY:
- Download emergency apps like Namola or DialDirect’s SOS.
- Save important numbers: your insurer’s emergency line, roadside assistance, local police, and someone close to you.
- Enable location sharing with a trusted friend or family member when travelling far or at night.
FUEL:
- Never assume you will find fuel “just up the road.”
- Always refill before you drop below ¼ of a tank—especially in rural areas.
PLAN YOUR ROUTES:
- Stick to main routes, especially if driving at night or through unfamiliar areas.
- Avoid high-risk zones (known hijacking or robbery hotspots) whenever possible.
- Check traffic and weather conditions before departing.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE STRANDED:

PRIORITISE YOUR SAFETY IMMEDIATELY:
- Stay calm and assess the situation.
- If your vehicle can still move, drive to a safer area—a garage, parking lot, or toll plaza.
- Avoid stopping on the shoulder of the highway if possible.
- Instead, stop in a well-lit, visible area.
LOCK DOORS AND WINDOWS:
- While you wait for help:
  - Keep your doors locked and windows slightly open (if needed) for air, but not enough for someone to reach in.
  - Be cautious of people offering help unless they are from an official service (police, branded tow truck, etc).
CALL FOR HELP IMMEDIATELY:
- Contact roadside assistance, your insurance provider, or an emergency tow service.
- If your phone battery is dying, prioritise essential calls and use your power bank.
- Use hazard lights and place a reflective triangle at least 45 metres behind your car to warn other drivers.
STAY INSIDE THE VEHICLE:
- Unless it is a fire risk or the car is in a dangerous position, remain inside until help arrives.
- If you must exit (e.g., flat tyre on a quiet road), exit from the passenger side and always stay visible but cautious.
IF APPROACHED BY STRANGERS:
- Open the window slightly and politely say help is on the way.
- Never open your door to someone unless it is law enforcement in uniform and always ask for identification.
SHARE YOUR LOCATION:
- Send your live location to a trusted friend or family member using WhatsApp or your phone’s GPS system.
- Keep them updated on what is happening until you are safely on your way again.

DO NOT:

Do not leave the vehicle unlocked or unattended.
Do not accept lifts from strangers, even if they seem friendly.
Do not walk far distances to look for help, especially at night.
Do not rely on one cell network—rural areas often have spotty coverage, so a dual-SIM phone or backup SIM can help.
Inform someone when and where you are driving and your expected arrival time.
Be extra cautious about people who try to "flag you down" - some criminals simulate breakdowns.

Being stranded on the roadside can be a frightening experience, especially in areas with safety concerns.

The best way to avoid it is to maintain your car, plan properly, and be prepared.

If it happens, staying calm, alert, and prioritise your personal safety over the vehicle.

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