Dealing with Vehicle Breakdowns

Created by Okito Support, Modified on Wed, 2 Oct, 2024 at 11:19 PM by Okito Support

Pull Over Safely: If you notice signs of a potential breakdown (strange noises, loss of power, warning lights), pull over to a safe location. If possible, move to the shoulder of the road or a designated rest area.
Turn on Hazard Lights: Activate your hazard lights to signal to other drivers that your vehicle is in trouble.
Stay Inside the Vehicle (If Safe): If you're on a busy highway or a dangerous area, stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on until it's safe to exit. If you need to step out, do so from the side away from traffic.

Inform the Passengers: Let your passengers know what’s happening and assure them that you’re handling the situation.
Assist in Arranging Alternate Transport: If necessary, help your passengers arrange for another ride. You can either book them another ride through the app or suggest alternative transportation options.

Contact Your Ride-Hailing Platform: Many ride-hailing platforms offer roadside assistance programs. Check if your platform provides this service and contact them for help.
Call for Professional Help: If the platform does not offer roadside assistance, contact a local towing company or a mobile mechanic. Many insurance companies and auto clubs, like AAA, offer roadside assistance packages that can help.
Local Roadside Assistance Numbers in the Philippines:
- Automobile Association of the Philippines (AAP): Offers nationwide towing and roadside assistance. Contact them at their hotline or through their membership services.
- Insurance Provider Assistance: Some insurance policies include towing and roadside help.

Flat Tire: If you have a spare tire and the tools to change it, you can do so yourself if you're experienced. Otherwise, call for professional help.
Overheating Engine: Turn off the engine and wait for it to cool down before checking the coolant level. If low, add coolant or water, but never open the radiator cap while the engine is hot.
Dead Battery: If you have jumper cables and access to another vehicle, you can jump-start your car. If not, call for roadside assistance.

Take Photos: If your vehicle is involved in an accident or incurs damage during the breakdown, take photos of the scene and any visible damage. This may be useful for insurance claims.
Record Details: Note down the time, location, and circumstances of the breakdown for your own records and to report to your ride-hailing platform or insurance provider.

Tire Sealant or Spare Tire: If you experience a flat tire and have tire sealant or a spare, use these for temporary fixes to get you to the nearest service station.
Emergency Kit: Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your car, including items like a flashlight, jumper cables, tire sealant, and basic tools, to handle minor repairs.

Notify Your Insurance: If the breakdown involves damage or an accident, report it to your insurance provider immediately to start the claims process.
Inform the Ride-Hailing Platform: Some platforms require drivers to report accidents or significant vehicle issues to maintain safety records.

Tow to a Mechanic: If the issue cannot be fixed on-site, arrange for a tow to your preferred mechanic or service center. Many roadside assistance services will take you to the nearest qualified repair shop.
Consider Your Route: If possible, have your vehicle towed to a shop that specializes in the type of repair needed or to a location that is convenient for you to pick it up later.

Regular Maintenance: Adhere to a strict vehicle maintenance schedule to reduce the likelihood of breakdowns. Check your fluids, battery health, tire condition, and engine regularly.
Carry Emergency Numbers: Always have contact numbers for roadside assistance, towing services, and your insurance provider saved in your phone.
Keep the Tank Full: Avoid running on low fuel to prevent the risk of being stranded if a breakdown occurs.

Repair the Issue Promptly: Don’t delay in repairing the cause of the breakdown to prevent further damage or potential safety hazards.
Monitor Vehicle Performance: After a breakdown, keep an eye on your vehicle’s performance and any recurring issues that might indicate a larger problem.

Have an Emergency Kit: Always carry an emergency kit with items like jumper cables, tire inflator, basic tools, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight.
Know Your Coverage: Familiarize yourself with what your insurance covers in case of breakdowns, including towing limits and roadside assistance services.