2. Inspect Your Tires for Damage: Look for cracks, bulges, exposed cords or objects embedded in your tires. You should also check the tread depth and replace tires that are excessively worn. Addressing tire damage early can help prevent a dangerous flat tire or blowout.

3. Make Sure Your Spare Tire Is Ready: Many drivers do not realize their spare tire is flat until they need it. Check its air pressure periodically and confirm that your jack, lug wrench and wheel-lock key are inside the vehicle. Some newer cars do not include a spare, so learn what equipment your vehicle provides.

4. Pay Attention to Your Battery: A weak battery can leave you stranded without much warning. Watch for slow engine cranking, dim headlights, electrical problems or clicking sounds when starting the car. Have the battery tested if it is several years old or showing signs of weakness.

5. Keep Your Gas Tank Above One-Quarter Full: Running out of fuel is both inconvenient and potentially unsafe. Try not to let the tank fall below one-quarter full, especially when driving at night, in heavy traffic or through an unfamiliar area.

6. Watch for Dashboard Warning Lights: Never ignore an illuminated warning light. A check-engine, battery, oil-pressure or temperature warning may indicate a developing problem. Consult your owner’s manual and have the vehicle inspected before a small issue becomes a roadside emergency.

7. Check Your Vehicle’s Fluids: Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid all help your vehicle operate safely. Check accessible fluid levels regularly and look beneath the car for signs of leaking. If the engine begins overheating, safely pull over and turn it off—never remove a hot radiator cap.

8. Keep Up With Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations and scheduled maintenance can uncover problems before they cause a breakdown. Follow the maintenance schedule recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

9. Carry a Roadside Emergency Kit: Keep a flashlight, reflective warning triangles, first-aid supplies, phone charger, bottled water and basic tools in your vehicle. A portable battery jump starter and tire-pressure gauge can also be extremely useful.

10. Know What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down: If possible, move your vehicle completely away from traffic and turn on the hazard lights. Stay alert to passing vehicles and avoid standing beside the car on a busy roadway. If you cannot reach a safe location, remain inside with your seat belt fastened and contact emergency services when necessary.

11. Avoid Attempting Unsafe Roadside Repairs: Changing a tire or inspecting a vehicle near moving traffic can be extremely dangerous. If the location, weather or traffic conditions make the repair unsafe, remain in a protected area and call a trained roadside professional.

12. Save a Roadside Assistance Number: Do not wait for an emergency to search for help. Save the number for West Valley Roadside Rescue in your phone so dependable roadside assistance is only a call away when you need it.

2. Inspect Your Tires for Damage: Look for cracks, bulges, exposed cords or objects embedded in your tires. You should also check the tread depth and replace tires that are excessively worn. Addressing tire damage early can help prevent a dangerous flat tire or blowout.

3. Make Sure Your Spare Tire Is Ready: Many drivers do not realize their spare tire is flat until they need it. Check its air pressure periodically and confirm that your jack, lug wrench and wheel-lock key are inside the vehicle. Some newer cars do not include a spare, so learn what equipment your vehicle provides.

4. Pay Attention to Your Battery: A weak battery can leave you stranded without much warning. Watch for slow engine cranking, dim headlights, electrical problems or clicking sounds when starting the car. Have the battery tested if it is several years old or showing signs of weakness.

5. Keep Your Gas Tank Above One-Quarter Full: Running out of fuel is both inconvenient and potentially unsafe. Try not to let the tank fall below one-quarter full, especially when driving at night, in heavy traffic or through an unfamiliar area.

6. Watch for Dashboard Warning Lights: Never ignore an illuminated warning light. A check-engine, battery, oil-pressure or temperature warning may indicate a developing problem. Consult your owner’s manual and have the vehicle inspected before a small issue becomes a roadside emergency.

7. Check Your Vehicle’s Fluids: Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid all help your vehicle operate safely. Check accessible fluid levels regularly and look beneath the car for signs of leaking. If the engine begins overheating, safely pull over and turn it off—never remove a hot radiator cap.

8. Keep Up With Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations and scheduled maintenance can uncover problems before they cause a breakdown. Follow the maintenance schedule recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

9. Carry a Roadside Emergency Kit: Keep a flashlight, reflective warning triangles, first-aid supplies, phone charger, bottled water and basic tools in your vehicle. A portable battery jump starter and tire-pressure gauge can also be extremely useful.

10. Know What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down: If possible, move your vehicle completely away from traffic and turn on the hazard lights. Stay alert to passing vehicles and avoid standing beside the car on a busy roadway. If you cannot reach a safe location, remain inside with your seat belt fastened and contact emergency services when necessary.

11. Avoid Attempting Unsafe Roadside Repairs: Changing a tire or inspecting a vehicle near moving traffic can be extremely dangerous. If the location, weather or traffic conditions make the repair unsafe, remain in a protected area and call a trained roadside professional.

12. Save a Roadside Assistance Number: Do not wait for an emergency to search for help. Save the number for West Valley Roadside Rescue in your phone so dependable roadside assistance is only a call away when you need it.