If your car breaks down near Bridgeview, IL, your first priority is safety—not figuring out what’s wrong with the vehicle. Move away from traffic if you can, turn on your hazard lights, determine whether it’s safe to stay in the vehicle, and call for roadside assistance or towing.
If the vehicle can’t be safely driven, Blackhawks Towing Service provides 24/7 towing and roadside assistance in Bridgeview at (708) 227-7200.
Here are the steps to follow.
1. Move Your Car Out of Traffic If Possible
If the vehicle still has enough power to move, signal and carefully get as far away from moving traffic as you safely can.
That may mean pulling into a parking lot, onto a wide shoulder, or taking the nearest safe exit.
This is especially important around busy Bridgeview routes such as Harlem Avenue and I-294, where traffic can make a roadside breakdown more dangerous. Both are major transportation routes in the Bridgeview area.
Don’t make a sudden lane change just to reach the shoulder. Slow down gradually and move over only when it’s safe.
2. Turn On Your Hazard Lights
Once you realize the vehicle is losing power or you’ve stopped, turn on your emergency flashers.
Hazard lights help other drivers notice that your vehicle isn’t moving normally. If you’re safely off the roadway, raising the hood can also signal that you need assistance.
AAA recommends making a disabled vehicle visible and moving as far from traffic as conditions safely allow.
3. Decide Whether It’s Safer to Stay Inside
There isn’t one answer for every breakdown.
If you’re completely off the roadway in a safe location, it may be safer to remain inside with your seat belt fastened while waiting for help.
If your vehicle is stuck in an active traffic lane or you believe it could be struck, staying inside may not be the safest option. Exit only when you can do so safely and move well away from traffic. Never stand directly in front of or behind a disabled vehicle.
If you see smoke or flames, move everyone away from the vehicle and call 911.
4. Figure Out What Kind of Help You Need
Not every breakdown automatically requires a tow.
A few common problems may be handled with roadside assistance:
- Dead battery: A jump start may get the vehicle running.
- Flat tire: A tire change may solve the problem if the vehicle is in a safe location.
- Out of fuel: Fuel delivery may get you moving again.
- Locked-out vehicle: A lockout service may be enough.
If the engine, transmission, steering, suspension, cooling system, or another major component has failed, towing is usually the safer option.
For a vehicle that can’t be driven, learn more about our light duty towing in Bridgeview, IL service.
5. Don’t Keep Driving a Car That May Be Damaged
A vehicle doesn’t have to stop completely to be considered broken down.
Warning signs such as overheating, severe vibration, unusual noises, loss of steering control, smoke, or major dashboard warnings can mean continuing to drive could create additional damage or a safety problem.
For example, if an engine is overheating, pull over safely and shut it down rather than trying to make it a few more miles. Don’t remove a hot radiator cap; hot coolant and steam can cause serious burns.
A tow to your preferred repair shop may cost less than turning a manageable mechanical problem into a larger repair.
6. Give the Tow Company the Right Information
Before calling for towing or roadside assistance, collect a few details if you can.
Tell the dispatcher:
- Your exact location or nearest intersection
- Your vehicle’s make and model
- What’s wrong with the vehicle
- Whether the car is safely off the road
- Where you want the vehicle taken
Street names, nearby businesses, exits, or landmarks can make your location easier to identify.
This also helps the towing company determine whether you need a standard tow, flatbed, wheel-lift equipment, or roadside assistance.
If roadside assistance cannot get your vehicle moving safely, our light duty towing in Bridgeview, IL service can transport your car, SUV, pickup, or van to a repair shop, dealership, home, or another approved destination.
What If Your Car Breaks Down After an Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a collision, check yourself and your passengers first.
Call 911 when someone is injured, the crash presents an immediate danger, or emergency assistance is needed. Follow instructions from police or other first responders.
Even if your vehicle starts after the accident, don’t assume it’s safe to drive. Damage to a tire, wheel, steering, suspension, cooling system, or other component may not be obvious from the driver’s seat.
Blackhawks Towing also provides accident recovery and vehicle towing when a damaged vehicle needs to be moved.
Need Towing After a Breakdown in Bridgeview?
If roadside assistance can’t get your vehicle safely moving again, Blackhawks Towing Service can transport your car, SUV, pickup, van, or other light-duty vehicle to your repair shop, dealership, home, or another approved destination.
We provide 24/7 light duty towing in Bridgeview, IL for breakdowns, disabled vehicles, mechanical problems, and accident-damaged cars.
Blackhawks Towing Service
7248 W 80th St
Bridgeview, IL 60455
Call: (708) 227-7200
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call a tow truck if my car won’t start?
If a jump start or another simple roadside service can’t solve the problem, a tow truck can transport the vehicle to a repair shop for diagnosis.
What should I do if my car breaks down on I-294?
Move out of active traffic if you can do so safely, turn on your hazard lights, and call for help. If your vehicle is creating an immediate traffic hazard or you’re in danger, call 911.
Can a tow truck take my car to my own mechanic?
Yes. When arranging the tow, tell the dispatcher where you’d like the vehicle transported.