Pulling over your car safely is a fundamental driving skill that every driver should master. There are a variety of situations where you’ll need to pull over quickly and safely, such as an emergency, a breakdown, or letting out a passenger. In those instances, knowing how to pull over properly can make the difference between a smooth transition and a potentially dangerous situation. Read on to find out more about when you should pull over and how to do it properly and safely.
When You Should Pull Over
There are various situations that may necessitate pulling over your car. Emergencies, such as a flat tire or an engine failure, require immediate attention and a safe place to stop. If you find yourself in an accident, you will need to pull over to assess the situation and ensure the safety of everyone involved. You may also need to let a passenger out of the vehicle or respond to law enforcement signals. In any case, understanding when and why to pull over can help you react appropriately and maintain safety on the road.
Choosing a Safe Location
When it comes to pulling over, selecting a safe location is of utmost importance. Ideally, you want to pull over as far to the right as possible, preferably onto the shoulder or a side street, to avoid obstructing traffic. It’s also important to avoid steep hills or slopes, as they can make it difficult to safely exit your vehicle. If you’re stopping at night, look for well-lit areas to enhance visibility for both you and other drivers. Make sure that you are not stopping in a no-parking zone or blocking a driveway, as this could lead to legal issues or accidents.
How to Pull Over Safely
Once you’ve chosen a safe location to pull over, you’ll next need to execute the maneuver. This can be a difficult task when you’re under pressure due to an emergency or other stressful situation. Keep this step-by-step guide in mind when you need to pull over:
It’s important to keep your movement smooth and predictable to give the drivers behind and around you ample time to react.
Safety Considerations
Prioritizing safety is essential when pulling over. One of the first things you should do is activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you are stopped or moving slowly. If it’s safe, remain inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until you’re ready to move on or until help arrives. If you do need to exit the vehicle, it’s best to do so on the passenger side, if possible, to minimize exposure to oncoming traffic.
In the event of a breakdown or emergency, call for roadside assistance or emergency service once you’ve fully stopped your vehicle. Always provide your location and a brief description of the situation to expedite the response. Keeping reflective triangles or flares in your car can also be beneficial, especially if you need to stop on a highway or in low-visibility conditions. These tools will help alert other drivers to your presence and prevent accidents.
What to Do When Passing Accidents or Emergency Vehicles
If you come across an accident on the highway and feel the need to pull over to help or call 911, it’s important to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles involved. If you notice that emergency services are already on the scene, it’s usually best not to pull over at all.
In Ontario, there is a law regarding how to pass emergency vehicles. It states: “When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle, slow down and pass with caution. If a road has two or more lanes, you must leave a lane of space between you and the emergency vehicle, if you can do so safely.”
What to Do After Pulling Over for Police
When a police officer signals you to pull over, staying calm and following their instructions is imperative. Find a safe place to stop, such as a well-lit area or a parking lot, and turn off your engine. Keep your hands visible on the steering wheel and avoid sudden movements. Wait for the officer to approach your vehicle and provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance if requested. Answer any questions truthfully and respectfully. If you disagree with the officer’s actions, avoid arguing at the scene and instead express your concerns later through proper channels.
In some cases, the officer may ask you to exit your vehicle. Comply with their request and follow their instructions. If you have passengers, especially children, inform the officer and ask for permission before making any movements. Remain cooperative throughout the encounter, and avoid making any sudden or threatening gestures. Once the officer has completed their business, they will typically instruct you to proceed with caution.
Key Advice from MyChoice
- If you’re a new driver, practice the mechanics of pulling over in areas without a lot of traffic before driving on high-traffic roadways.
- Making smooth, gradual movements and using your signal lights correctly is key to communicating with the drivers around you to avoid accidents when pulling over.
- Taking a defensive driving course will not only teach you how to pull over safely but can also lower your insurance premiums.