What should you do when parking on the highway?
3 Answers
When a motor vehicle breaks down on the highway and must be parked, control the speed, observe the traffic conditions in front and behind the vehicle, turn on the right turn signal, leave the driving lane as soon as possible, and stop in the emergency parking strip or on the right shoulder. Below are relevant details about parking in the highway emergency lane: 1. Emergency Lane: The emergency lane is for temporary parking in case of emergencies, waiting for rescue, or when traffic is interrupted due to accidents or other incidents. It plays a vital role in rescuing the injured, quickly handling accident scenes, and ensuring timely traffic restoration, serving as the 'life channel' of the highway. 2. Situations where parking or occupying the emergency lane is not allowed: If someone in the vehicle is vomiting, needs to use the restroom, or needs to breastfeed a child, it is best to proceed to the nearest parking area or service area on the highway, but the emergency lane must not be occupied.
If you have to stop on the highway, my suggestion is to drive the car to the emergency stopping lane or shoulder as soon as possible, and never block the main lane. Turn on the hazard lights to alert vehicles behind you—this is a basic safety measure. If you have a warning triangle, immediately place it at least 100 meters behind your car to ensure sufficient distance, as speeds are high on highways, and skipping this step significantly increases risks. I always keep one in my car when driving, just in case. Afterward, stay inside the car with the doors locked, and avoid walking along the roadside—especially in bad weather, which is even more dangerous. Use your phone to call for roadside assistance or the highway hotline for help. Remember, stopping often happens due to flat tires or breakdowns, so regular tire maintenance is crucial to avoid sudden emergencies.
I once had an experience with stopping on the highway: my car suddenly stalled, so I quickly pulled over to the shoulder and turned on the hazard lights to alert the cars behind me. If you don’t have a warning triangle, don’t risk getting out of the car—it’s safer to wait inside. It’s best to stop at a rest area or an exit, keeping a safe distance from the main lanes. I always make sure to check my phone signal and carry a power bank so I can call for a tow truck immediately in case of trouble. On the highway, the wind is strong and traffic is fast, so after stopping, don’t stick your head out—just stay calm and wait for professional help. The key is to pay attention to small details, like keeping your car in good condition, which can save you from major trouble.
