Breaking down while driving is not only a source of great irritation and frustration, but it can be dangerous as well. If your vehicle suffers mechanical trouble, or if you’re involved in a fender-bender, it is important to remember there are other vehicles on the road. When your car is not moving, it becomes a hazard to you and to other drivers.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind the next time you find yourself with mechanical trouble. Pro Tow wants you to remember: safety is of paramount importance.

• Safely move your vehicle to the shoulder, or move your vehicle entirely off the road if at all possible, and it is safe to do so.

• Turn your steering wheel the opposite direction of the road so that if your car rolls, it will not roll back into traffic.

• Turn on your emergency flashers.

• If you are blocking a lane of traffic and it is safe to do so, set out a hazard triangle or flare behind your vehicle.

• Call for help. If you have mechanical trouble and need to get your vehicle to a garage, Pro Tow is ready to give you a hand. We are also prepared to provide fast roadside assistance. Call Pro Tow of Columbia at (803) 808-0505.

• Stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt on and the doors locked until help arrives. In most cases this is safer than standing out on a busy highway.