Driving in Winter: What Happens When a Car Breaks Down in Snow?
When we talk about a roadside emergency, you might picture yourself stuck on a busy road under the blazing sun. Even though this imaginative scene is scary in its own way, getting stuck in winter especially when a snowstorm hits is even more dangerous. What should you do if you face a car-related problem in winter? Read the following section to find out how you can keep yourself save in such a troubling situation.
1. Run out of Gas
While driving peacefully on the road, you realize that your car has eaten up all the fuel. What are you supposed to do now? Now that your car has come to a halt, the first thing that you have to do is to call for help so that you can get out of the extreme weather as soon as possible. But, before the help arrive, it is important to keep yourself inside the vehicle with all the windows shut. The one thing that you have to assure is to see whether the windows are cleared of snows. A pile of snow on your window screen will make it difficult for passing drivers to realize that you are inside the car waiting for help.
2. Get out of the Car for a While
If you are stuck inside the car for a while, it is advisable to come out of the car for quick stretches. In winter, your body is normally stiffer. This is why it is important to move your arms and legs at intervals. Also, try to remain awake throughout and don’t sleep under any circumstance.
3. Car Breakdown
Having a car breakdown in a snowstorm is the worst thing that can happen to you. But, they say that bad luck can strike anytime. When your car breaks down, don’t waste time and call for roadside assistance immediately. Don’t get out of the car and run the engine occasionally to keep the inside of the car warm. One thing that you have to take care of is to check that the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by snow.
4. Stuck in a Snowbank
We understand how helpless you might feel if you are stuck in a snowbank. The first thought that comes to your mind in such situations is to start shoveling the snow out. However, this isn’t a good approach to deal with the situation. Instead, you should focus more on keeping yourself warm and patiently wait for help to arrive.
5. Caught Outside the Car
If, for some reasons, you have been locked out of your car in a snowstorm, you shouldn’t waste a minute and head to the nearest shelter. Extreme cold temperatures are lethal for your body. Hypothermia – which can be life-threatening – is quite common when bodies are exposed to harsh cold temperatures for long periods. Before heading to the shelter, tie a scarf over your nose and mouth to protect your ears and mouth. In this way, you will be protected from the suffocation from the wind and snow.
Summary
Getting stuck in a car in a snowstorm seems like a scene out of a horror movie. However, instead of panicking, if you focus on keeping yourself warm, you can avoid potential harm.