United Tire and Service News

When a roadside emergency occurs it is too late to get prepared.  Taking some simple steps before a break down or collision occurs will give you peace of mind and help you get through a tense situation with less stress.   The car care professionals at United Tire & Service suggest taking the following steps now to save you stress later.

1. The Information Age - Make a list of key phone contacts you may need during an emergency.  Make sure you have United Tire & Service's 24-hour roadside assistance number, the best phone number for your insurance company, and a trusted member of your family or a friend who is always willing to help out.  And don't forget 911.  Keep this list on paper in your glovebox or save it on your phone for quick reference.

2. Carry a Spare - Many people assume there is a good spare in or under the vehicle along with the tools to change the tire.  This assumption can lead to trouble.  Check that these items are in the vehicle and are in good shape before you need them. 

3. Buy a First Aid Kit - Purchase a pre-packaged first aid kit to keep in the vehicle at all times.  But don't just buy it and throw it in the trunk.  Open it up and check out the contents so you know what you have.  Add a sample of prescription medications you rely on if available, but make sure it is in a child proof container.  Also add a quick source of energy for each seat in your car.  You can choose a Snickers bar, energy bar or your own go to quick fuel snack.

4. Carry a Tool Kit - A simple tool kit can help you out of a jam.  We suggest buying a brand name kit as super cheap tools tend to fail when you need them most.  Add a good set of mechanic gloves to keep your hands warm and protected.  You won't be able to carry every tool you may need, but United's 24-hour Roadside Assistance can step in when your tools are not enough.

5. Pack Up - As cliché as it may sound, pack a blanket and a simple, durable change of clothes.  Roadside hazards can be dirty work and bad weather can turn an emergency into an exercise in survival.  A blanket can be used to warm your body, can comfort an accident victim in shock, beat down a small fire or act as a ground cover for under car work.

6. Add a Little Light - Always carry a flashlight.  There are a million options for flashlights these days.  Pick one with bright LEDs, which don't use much power, and make sure it has good batteries and is easily accessible.  In a pinch, smart phone lights can help, but you will probably need your phone for other things in a roadside situation so save the phone for communication or playing a game while waiting for United to arrive with help and keep the flashlight handy.

United Tire & Service wants everyone to arrive at their destination safe and sound, but when a roadside emergency interrupts your trip some thoughtful preparation can help you get a handle the situation.

Nobody wants to see a check engine light, but chances are when United Tire & Service plugs in to your computer the fix will be quick, simple and affordable.  The check engine light can sometimes indicate more complex problems, so take ten miles to feel things out and if the light stays lit get it checked out