How to Handle Common Car Emergencies on Dawsonville Roads

No matter how well you maintain your car, emergencies can still happen. Being prepared and knowing what to do in a car emergency can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious issue. At Lakeside Automotive in Dawsonville, we want our community to be safe and well-prepared for any situation that may arise on the road. Below are some common car emergencies and practical steps on how to handle them effectively.



1. Flat Tire

A flat tire is one of the most common car emergencies, and knowing how to change a tire can save you time and stress. To handle a flat tire:

• Pull Over Safely: If you notice a flat, gradually slow down and pull over to a safe location, away from traffic.
• Use Hazard Lights: Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Change the Tire: Use a jack, wrench, and your spare tire to replace the flat. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable changing the tire, call roadside assistance.

To avoid flat tire emergencies, regularly check your tire pressure and tread, and visit Lakeside Automotive for inspections to ensure your tires are road-ready.

2. Dead Battery

A dead battery can leave you stranded, especially if you don't have jumper cables or another vehicle nearby to assist. Here’s what to do:

• Carry Jumper Cables: Keep jumper cables in your trunk at all times. If you have a pair and another driver is willing to help, you can jump-start your car.
• Call for Help: If no help is available, call for roadside assistance.

To prevent this situation, have your battery tested at Lakeside Automotive, especially before winter or summer when extreme temperatures can impact battery performance.

3. Overheating Engine

If your car’s engine starts to overheat, it’s important to act quickly to avoid serious damage:

• Turn Off the AC: Turn off the air conditioner and turn on the heater to help draw heat away from the engine.
• Pull Over: Safely pull over and turn off the car. Let it cool down before opening the hood.
• Check Coolant: If you have coolant and your engine has cooled sufficiently, you can add it to the radiator to help prevent overheating.

Regular coolant checks at Lakeside Automotive can help ensure that your cooling system is in good shape, minimizing the risk of overheating.

4. Brake Failure

Experiencing brake failure is a terrifying situation, but staying calm is key:

• Downshift: If your brakes fail, immediately shift to a lower gear to help slow the vehicle.
• Pump the Brakes: If you have standard (non-ABS) brakes, pump them to build up pressure.
• Use the Emergency Brake: Gradually apply the emergency brake to slow down. Avoid jerking it, as this can cause skidding.
• Pull Over: Use your horn and hazard lights to alert other drivers while pulling over to a safe area.

Regular brake inspections at Lakeside Automotive can help detect issues before they become emergencies, keeping you safe on the road.

5. Running Out of Gas

Running out of gas is an avoidable emergency, but it can still happen:

• Stay Calm: If you run out of gas, steer to the side of the road as safely as possible.
• Call for Assistance: Contact roadside assistance or a friend to bring you fuel.
• Avoid Repeating: Make it a habit to refuel once your gas gauge reaches a quarter tank to prevent this emergency.

At Lakeside Automotive, we can help ensure your fuel system is working efficiently, and we recommend keeping track of your fuel levels, especially on longer drives.

6. Stuck Accelerator

A stuck accelerator can be extremely dangerous, but it is manageable if you stay calm:

• Shift to Neutral: Immediately shift the car into neutral to disconnect the engine from the wheels.
• Apply the Brakes: Use steady, firm pressure on the brakes to bring your car to a stop.
• Turn Off the Engine: Once stopped, turn off the engine and call for help.

This type of emergency can be scary, but regularly servicing your car can help prevent mechanical issues like a stuck accelerator.

7. Car Won't Start

If your car won't start, it could be due to several issues, such as a dead battery, faulty starter, or fuel problem:

• Check the Battery: If the battery is dead, use jumper cables to try and start the car.
• Listen for Sounds: If you hear clicking, it might be the starter or alternator.
• Call for Assistance: If you can’t identify the issue, contact roadside assistance or bring your car to Lakeside Automotive.

Our expert technicians can diagnose why your car won’t start and ensure you’re back on the road as soon as possible.

How to Be Prepared for Road Emergencies

• Carry an Emergency Kit: Make sure your car has an emergency kit that includes jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a tire inflator, water, and non-perishable snacks.
• Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s manual so you know where important components are located and what to do in case of an emergency.
• Schedule Regular Maintenance: Preventative maintenance at Lakeside Automotive can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing an emergency. Our team in Dawsonville will inspect your vehicle and make necessary repairs to keep you safe.

Schedule Maintenance at Lakeside Automotive

At Lakeside Automotive in Dawsonville, GA, our priority is your safety on the road. Regular maintenance and checkups can help reduce the likelihood of car emergencies, but being prepared for the unexpected is always a good idea. From brake checks to battery inspections, we are here to help you keep your car safe and reliable.

Call Lakeside Automotive today or schedule an appointment online to make sure your vehicle is prepared for any situation. Stay safe on Dawsonville roads!