Chapter 4 — Your Driving 73 Do not attempt to make repairs on a vehicle while it is in an area exposed to  other traffic. Call a tow truck or mechanic for assistance. • When the vehicle is stopped or nearly stopped, check for approaching traffic  and if it’s safe, gradually drive back onto the road. • Allow the engine to slow the vehicle; and • Slowly remove your foot from the accelerator and steer straight ahead; • Do not immediately apply the brakes or try to turn back; you could skid, lose  control or overturn; • Keep to the right even if this means running off the road. • Sound your horn; and • Reduce speed immediately; •  Exit the main part of the road — move the vehicle completely onto the  shoulder of the road; •  Make sure you leave the vehicle by the passenger side, and do not allow  passengers to remain in the vehicle; •  Stand off the road and away from the vehicle — do not stand in front or to  the rear of the vehicle; •  If you need help, tie a white cloth to the left door handle or the radio  aerial and raise the hood of the vehicle; and •  If it's dark, turn on the parking lights or emergency flashers. Always have  flashlights or flares in your vehicle for emergencies. •  Hold the steering wheel tightly and try to keep the vehicle straight on your  side of the road; •  Reduce speed by lifting your foot from the accelerator; •  Do not apply the brakes until the engine has slowed the vehicle enough to  allow you to maintain control of the vehicle; and •  Find a safe place to move the vehicle completely off the road. • Direct all passengers to leave the vehicle by the passenger side. Never allow  passengers to remain in the vehicle during a tire change. Move passengers off  the road or shoulder — do not allow them to stand in front or to the rear of  the vehicle. • Turn on the emergency flashers and parking lights. • Block the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. If a blowout occurs: Breakdowns What you should do if your vehicle breaks down: Unusual Emergencies An approaching vehicle that crosses the center line into the path of your  vehicle is a danger. You should: Tips to follow if your vehicle runs off the pavement and onto the shoulder: