Summer Road Trip Safety: What to Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down on I-74
Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons in Illinois. Whether you're heading to a family vacation, a weekend getaway, or simply traveling through Vermilion County, a vehicle breakdown can quickly turn a good trip into a stressful situation.
At Carnaghi Towing, we've assisted thousands of motorists throughout Danville and along the I-74 corridor. Knowing what to do when your vehicle breaks down can help keep you and your passengers safe while getting you back on the road faster.
Step 1: Move to a Safe Location
If your vehicle begins showing signs of trouble, such as overheating, unusual noises, a flat tire, or warning lights, try to move off the roadway as safely as possible.
Whenever possible:
- Pull onto the right shoulder
- Exit the highway if you can do so safely
- Avoid stopping on curves or near hills where visibility is limited
- Turn your wheels away from traffic if parked on an incline
If your vehicle cannot be moved, remain calm and focus on staying visible to other drivers.
Step 2: Turn On Your Hazard Lights
Hazard flashers are one of the quickest ways to alert approaching traffic that your vehicle is disabled.
Turn them on immediately after stopping and leave them on until help arrives. If it's dark, rainy, or visibility is poor, your hazards become even more important.
Step 3: Stay Out of Traffic
Many roadside injuries occur because drivers or passengers exit their vehicles too close to moving traffic.
If your vehicle is safely off the road:
- Exit from the passenger side when possible
- Move well away from traffic
- Stand behind a guardrail if one is available
- Keep children and pets with you
If you're unable to safely leave the vehicle, remain buckled inside until emergency assistance arrives.
Step 4: Assess the Situation
Some problems can be quickly identified:
Flat Tire
A flat tire is one of the most common summer roadside issues. If you have a spare tire and can safely change it, you may be able to continue your trip.
Dead Battery
Extreme heat can be just as hard on batteries as winter cold. Older batteries often fail during summer travel.
Overheating Engine
If your temperature gauge climbs into the red zone, pull over immediately. Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can cause major engine damage.
Mechanical Failure
Strange noises, transmission issues, brake problems, or steering concerns should be treated seriously and typically require professional assistance.
Step 5: Call for Professional Assistance
Not every roadside problem requires a tow truck, but many do.
Professional towing and roadside assistance can help with:
- Vehicle breakdowns
- Flat tires
- Dead batteries
- Lockouts
- Accident recovery
- Winch-outs
- Vehicle transport
When calling for assistance, be prepared to provide:
- Your location
- Vehicle make and model
- Nature of the problem
- Whether you're on the highway shoulder or at an exit
Providing accurate information helps dispatch the proper equipment and reduces delays.
Common Summer Breakdown Causes
Summer heat creates unique challenges for vehicles.
Some of the most common causes of breakdowns include:
Tire Blowouts
Hot pavement increases tire temperatures and can lead to failures, especially on older or underinflated tires.
Battery Failure
Heat accelerates battery wear and can shorten battery life.
Cooling System Problems
Low coolant levels, failing hoses, and radiator issues often appear during periods of high temperatures.
Engine Overheating
Long drives, heavy traffic, and extreme temperatures place additional strain on cooling systems.
Belt and Hose Failures
Rubber components deteriorate faster in hot weather and can fail unexpectedly.
Preventing Roadside Emergencies
Before heading out on a summer trip:
- Check tire pressure
- Inspect tread depth
- Test your battery
- Verify coolant levels
- Check engine oil
- Pack water and emergency supplies
- Keep your phone charged
A few minutes of preparation can prevent hours of roadside frustration.
Trusted Towing Along I-74 Since 1924
For more than 100 years, Carnaghi Towing has proudly served drivers throughout Danville, Vermilion County, and the I-74 corridor.
Whether you're dealing with a breakdown, flat tire, accident, or roadside emergency, our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to help get you moving again.
If your vehicle breaks down this summer, remember: stay safe, stay visible, and call for professional assistance when you need it.
Need Immediate Assistance?
Call Carnaghi Towing anytime at (217) 446-0333 for 24/7 towing and roadside service throughout Danville and the surrounding area.
Remember Scott's Law: Slow Down and Move Over
When emergency vehicles, tow trucks, roadside assistance vehicles, or law enforcement officers are stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights activated, Illinois drivers are required to follow Scott's Law.
Under Illinois Scott's Law, motorists must:
- Move over to another lane when it is safe to do so
- Slow down significantly if changing lanes is not possible
- Proceed with caution when approaching roadside emergency scenes
Scott's Law was created to protect first responders, tow operators, and stranded motorists who are working just feet away from moving traffic.
Unfortunately, roadside workers continue to face serious risks every day from distracted and speeding drivers. A moment of inattention can have devastating consequences.
When you see flashing lights ahead:
- Check your mirrors and safely move over.
- Reduce your speed well before reaching the scene.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions.
- Give emergency personnel and tow operators as much room as possible.
At Carnaghi Towing, our operators work along busy roadways and interstate highways throughout the year. Following Scott's Law helps protect not only our team, but also the drivers and families we assist every day.
Remember: Move Over. Slow Down. Save Lives.
