Have you ever experienced driving an overheating car? Smoke comes out of the hood making it difficult for you to see through the windshield and pretty soon, the temperature gauge shows an overheating warning. All drivers should know very well what to do when they find themselves in this kind of situation. Although not as common as it was decades ago, even new cars of today can overheat.

Thankfully, for as long as you can stay in touch through your mobile phone, help can be on its way in no time. However, it would be very helpful if you already know what to do on your own. The NSC (National Safety Council) lists down the steps you need to follow in case your car overheats. Keep the tips below in mind to ensure that you’re safe while solving the problem or while waiting for help to come.

1. Park your car on the safe side of the road and turn off your engine. Some drivers would still be curious about where the smoke is coming from and would open the hood and pour water over the engine – this is wrong. Get off your car and call for roadside assistance when you’re not sure what to do.

2. Open the hood only when your car has cooled down completely. You will also see that the temperature gauge would be moving down to cool.

3. Look for the coolant reservoir under your hood and check the radiator’s coolant level.

4. Try feeling the radiator cap and check whether it is already cool. Do not open it when it is still hot. For extra precaution, use a towel or rag to protect your hand when you twist off the cap. Avoid hot steam because this can cause injury.

5. If you have spare coolant in stock, fill up the radiator to the top and place the cap back on.

6. Check all heater hoses including the upper and lower hose attached to the radiator for any damages, blockages or disconnections.

7. Restart your car’s engine. Check the temperature gauge regularly and be cautious if it crosses the optimal mark. When this happens, pull over and turn the engine off.

When you need help on the road while driving in Augusta, Augusta Tow Truck is here to help. For many years, we helped drivers of overheating cars, cars with engine troubles and flat tires, and more. Aside from tow truck service Augusta, we also offer timely roadside assistance at fair prices. Save our number on your phone so you may reach us anytime you need us. You may also call us at 706-705-5270 to get a free quote.

Nobody in his right mind or with good intentions would plan a car accident. An accident happens out of nowhere and totally unexpectedly. While there are some causes of car crashes that are preventable, there are still some that just happens without warning.

The best way to stay away from road accidents is by being aware of the usual causes of car crashes and trying to avoid those circumstances as much as possible. Among the common causes of car accidents are the following:

1. Distracted Driving – Using a cell phone, daydreaming, changing the radio station, and many others are only some of the many forms of distracted driving. Distracted drivers cause thousands of fatal crashes yearly.
 
2. Bad Weather – Storms, foggy roads, snowy and slippery roads can cause dreadful car crashes. Drivers are reminded to maneuver their car with utmost care. When possible, stay at home during extreme weather conditions.
 
3. Speeding – The law assigns speed limits for a reason. Going too fast or too slow can definitely cause car accidents.

4. Running Red Lights – A quick YouTube search will lead you to numerous red-light running car crashes. These accidents have claimed the lives of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and many others.

5. Drowsy Driving – Many times we’ve seen car crash news reports that talk about drivers falling asleep behind the wheel. When you feel sleepy, pull over to a safe spot first.

6. Driving Under the Influence – DUI’s involving alcohol or drugs have certainly caused countless deaths on the road. Don’t do illegal drugs. Don’t risk taking the wheel when you’ve had several drinks.

By knowing the usual causes of car crashes, you can be more aware of what you need to avoid. In the event that you need roadside assistance or tow service in Augusta, call Augusta Tow Truck at 706-705-5270. Ask us for a free quote!