15 tips you need to know before your long weekend road trip

GRCA Conestogo Campground

THORNHILL, Ontario, May 15, 2015 /Canada NewsWire/ - The much-anticipated May long weekend means many will get behind the wheel and make the journey to the family cottage, a nearby campground or tourist attraction.

But even the best laid out holiday plans can be ruined by a sudden vehicle break down or a collision. That's why CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO) is reminding drivers to prepare for the unexpected and stay safe in an emergency situation.

What to do if your vehicle breaks down on a highway:

• Pull onto the highway shoulder as quickly and safely as possible. If you cannot pull off the road, turn on your hazard lights.
• Remember your vehicle's location. This will be useful when calling for help.
• If you must get out of your vehicle, watch carefully for oncoming traffic especially at night or in bad weather. Exit the vehicle from the side away from traffic.
• Never stand behind or directly in front of your vehicle, as you risk being struck by drivers who might not see you.
• Make your vehicle visible by turning on your emergency flashers or raising your vehicle's hood.
• Once in a safe location, call 9-1-1 for help or CAA for roadside assistance.

What to do if you are involved in a collision:

• If you are injured, don't move – stay in your vehicle.
• Call 9-1-1 if someone is injured or if there is significant damage to any of the vehicles involved in the collision.
• If it is safe to do so, move the vehicle(s) to the side of the road.
• Record the details of the collision and include the time, date, and location, speed of your vehicle, weather and road conditions.
• Exchange information with the drivers involved.
• If there are witnesses get their names and phone numbers.
• Contact your insurance company before signing or authorizing any towing or other documentation.
• All vehicles that require a tow must go directly to a Collision Reporting Centre from the scene of the collision.
• Call the claims department of your insurance company as soon as possible.

Download a copy of these tips at caasco.com/strandeddriver and keep the handy guide in your glove box.

As a leader and advocate for road safety and mobility, CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club which represents the interests of 2 million members. For over a century, CAA has collaborated with communities, police services and governments to help keep drivers and their families safe while travelling on our roads.

SOURCE CAA South Central Ontario