Stopping the vehicle

Move as quickly as you can from the traffic lane to the shoulder or other safe stopping place.

Remember that the vehicle does not handle the same way with a flat or blown tire.
  1. Signal that you intend to move to the right.
    Important: Do not stop on the left shoulder unless you cannot maintain control of the vehicle long enough to reach the right shoulder.
  2. Check each lane to make sure that it is safe to change lanes. Continue to signal, but do not turn on your hazard lights while you are on the road.
  3. When you are in the right lane, look for a safe place to stop.

    Look for:

    • A side street off a main road
    • An exit on a freeway or divided highway
    • A layby, turnout, or rest area
    • A street lamp

    Do not stop:

    • On a bridge or overpass
    • Within 50 feet of a railroad crossing
    • On or near a blind curve
    • On a hill
  4. As soon as you move out of the right lane, turn on you hazard lights.
  5. Come to a stop on a level surface as far away from traffic as you can reach.
  6. Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
  7. If you have a manual transmission, put the gear shift in neutral.
  8. Exit the vehicle. If possible, leave from the passenger's side. If you must exit on the driver's side, check for traffic in the near lane before opening the door.
  9. Set out any hazard indicators that you have. If you have a safety vest or bright jacket, put it on. At night, eve pulling on a white tee-shirt over your clothing can help other drivers see you.
  10. Ask all passengers to exit the vehicle and wait away from traffic.