Breaking down on the road can be a scary and stressful experience. It can be hazardous to you and others on the road and costly and time-consuming. As with most things in trucking, sometimes it's all about how you handle the situation in the aftermath. Here are some things you can do to minimize your chances of having a breakdown, as well as how to handle it if you do breakdown, including staying safe and finding service.
Preventing Breakdowns
The best option is to do everything possible to prevent the breakdown from happening in the first place. However, with road conditions and part failures, things do happen.
Be Diligent about Pre- and Post-Trip Inspections
The actions you take, such as pre- and post-trip inspections, are critical to minimizing your chances of a breakdown. This process helps you identify any problems in your pre-trip inspection and get them fixed before getting on the road. Of course, this may still lead to delays and extra money spent, but it is much less disruptive than if it happens unexpectedly on the road.
Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
The most important thing you can do is stay up-to-date with your regular maintenance. Many carriers, such as TrueNorth, require you to complete quarterly DOT inspections and will reimburse you for the inspection cost. In addition, many carriers, such as TrueNorth, also require you to submit monthly maintenance reports on the health of your equipment. Meeting these equipment maintenance requirements is necessary to be compliant and identify any issues as early as possible, which saves you money and keeps you safe on the road.
Preparing for a Breakdown
No matter how diligent you are about pre- and post-trip inspections as well as your regular maintenance, breakdowns can still happen. It's important to be prepared for one to occur at any point in time. Keep certain spare parts in your vehicle at all times, such as:
- Fuses
- Air lines
- Glad hand "gaskets"
- Air governor
- Quick connect fittings
In addition, keep the following tools and items in your truck:
- Hammer
- Wrench set (1/4in - 3/4in)
- 12 inch crescent wrench
- Adjustable pliers
- Wire cutters
- Electrical tape
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Power bank cell phone charger
Even if a mechanic does the repairs, having these items accessible help you get back on the road quicker and save you money.
During A Breakdown
If you break down on the road, remember that safety is the first priority. First, get as far off the road as you can. This will allow you to be clear of traffic and provide space to inspect your vehicle and have it fixed (if possible). If you cannot get off the road and are blocking traffic, then the police will probably have your vehicle towed (at your expense). Every situation is different, and it may be the case that you cannot get off the road right away. But when it is possible, move off the road, turn on your four-way hazards and put out your triangles.
Once you are safely off the road, take a quick (and again, safe) look around the truck and open the hood. A visual check may reveal the problem and help the service provider fix it quicker. The more detail you can provide, the better.
Grab your flashlight (with spare batteries) to see at night. The flashlight app on your phone is also option. Most phones come with a default light, or you can download a free version, but a separate flashlight is best to preserve the battery on your phone. Using your phone to take pictures of the problem area or a video is also helpful to the service provider. A video chat is also a great option once you find a service provider.
Lastly, while it's often easier said than done, try not to panic. Remain calm and professional at all times.
Finding Service
Once you are in a safe place, it's time to find someone to service your vehicle. Many companies have websites and apps with information designed to help you get the service you need, whether it be towing, or maintenance, or other, when an unexpected road breakdown occurs:
- Find Truck Service
- International® Truck Certified Service Partners
- Commercial Truck Trader
- National Truck Emergency Road Service
- Truck Down
- Truckers Assist
- USA Breakdown
You can access most of these services by downloading their free app or browsing the web. You should browse the different options and see what works best for you. It is best to try them out before using them to get a sense of what's available. When you have regular stops and some extra time, assume your truck just broke down and see what options their search functions return. Doing this will help identify the companies that can best meet your needs.
Some people like the search function. (Not me.) Others prefer to talk with a live person as soon as possible. Phone numbers for the vendors you expect to use, when needed, should be in your contact list. Regardless, be sure to keep your phone charged so you can always access the apps and both place outgoing and receive incoming calls.
Your regular mechanic may have contacts in the area you need service and be able to provide a referral that could get you quicker service and at a better rate.
Speaking of rates, this is often the area that causes the most friction. Towing (if needed) is expensive – and more expensive in some parts of the country than others. The coasts and major cities tend to be the worst – congested areas lead to slower traffic and higher rates. But even some rural areas can be very high – limited competition leaves few options (and higher rates).
Each service provider should provide a cost estimate, but sometimes you must ask for it. Clarify your location, any mileage costs (for towing or their service truck to get to you), and all services required to get your vehicle fixed to prevent misunderstandings.
You already know that where you breakdown may not have cell service available. That means even the best app in the world may be of little value when you need it most. Keep a physical list of key phone numbers in your truck. When service is spotty, phone calls work better than internet streaming, as do landlines, if you can get to one.
Final Thoughts
We hope you will never have any service problems on the road, but we know with enough miles driven, some problems will occur. We hope they are minor and that you stay safe always. The information in this article can help you stay prepared and get you back moving sooner.
Other relevant articles:
CVSA Inspections: Understanding and Preparing for Them