The Connecticut Junior Soccer Association recently announced a partnership with AAA Northeast, which serves the communities of Fairfield, Litchfield, New Haven and Pawcatuck in Connecticut. As part of the relationship, we are pleased to offer a series of articles that cover helpful tips and information related to automobile safety.

Whether you’re picking up sports drinks at the corner store or heading to a soccer tournament 100 miles away, you’re likely not thinking about breaking down. But it’s almost inevitable it will happen at some point. AAA receives millions of roadside assistance calls every year. Even if you take great care of your car, road debris, weather conditions and older cars can all lead to unexpected breakdowns. Knowing what to do in these circumstances will keep you, and the loved ones in your car, safe.

Pull off the road. Getting your vehicle out of harm’s way is your first priority. Move as far off the road as possible. If you can’t pull over, turn on your emergency flashers immediately. Never push your car off the roadway; get yourself and passengers to safety first.

Take note of your location. Use mile markers, landmarks, exit numbers, signs and buildings.

Alert other drivers, especially at night. Turn on the flashers, raise your hood and tie a brightly colored item to a door handle. If you have flares or warning triangles, put them out at 100-foot intervals behind your vehicle.

Stay with your vehicle. It is safest to stay with your vehicle but call for assistance right away. AAA has nearly 62,000 service vehicles serving members nationwide, offering battery service and replacement, fuel delivery, tire changes, tows and more.  
Before You Leave

Even short road trips can lead to breakdowns, so you should always take a few precautions before hitting the road.

• Plan your route and check the weather. Note any areas of construction or road closures on your GPS.
• Check tire pressure, gas and fluid levels, and windshield wipers. For longer or more frequent trips, consider having a technician do a complete safety check of belts and hoses, battery charge and more. (AAA members can take their cars to Approved Auto Repair facilities for a free safety check!)
• Make sure your cellphone has important numbers programmed in it, including roadside assistance.
• Pack an emergency kit and keep it in the truck: include a flashlight, phone charger, extra water and snacks, blankets, umbrella and first-aid kit. Winter driving may require more items, such as a shovel or cat litter for tire traction.