What To Do If I Run Out Of Gas On The Road
Although it may seem unusual, this is a situation that can happen, and the reasons are not always due to carelessness, laziness or poor decisions. But for whatever reason, if I run out of gas in the middle of a highway, you have to know how to proceed.
An anomaly in the measurement and alert systems?
Vehicle engines are not infallible. They may fail, including the devices responsible for measuring the fuel level ; also the indicators and alerts present on the control panel.
Many of the cars that end up stopped because they run out of gasoline or diesel reserves, suffer the consequences of the malfunction of any of these components.
Under normal conditions these teams will not only show exactly how much fuel is available. They will also emit a visual alert on the dash, when the engine is working with the last of the tank. Some vehicles even add an audible alert when the end is imminent.
What do I do if I run out of gas?
When the car has used up the reserve of the gas tank, there is no other option. You have to move away immediately, often forcibly. To the extent possible, every effort should be made to avoid obstructing the road.
If we have been stopped in the middle of a highway, highway or road before getting out of the car, it is essential to wear the reflective vest. Otherwise, in addition to the discomfort derived from the mishap itself, a fine would have to be added.
Next, you will have to place the safety triangles to alert other drivers. If the incident took place on a road with only one or two lanes in each direction, two of these devices should be used. In the case of motorways or highways, only the rear will suffice.
First, one is placed in the rear of the vehicle, and then goes to the front; both at a distance of 50 meters from the car, equivalent to 100 steps. They must be arranged perpendicular to the road, so that they enter within the field of vision of moving vehicles.
Can’t walk down the road
On roads or highways, you can only walk on the edge of the road to the nearest security post. Going on foot to the nearest gas station is an idea that is totally discarded.
If I run out of gas on an express highway, I must ask for help from a vehicle. Even calling a taxi service can be an option, in order to get a transfer in search of fuel.
Call the insurance company
Insurance policies usually cover this type of situation, under the concept of roadside assistance. Most likely, the company will send a tow truck to move the vehicle to the nearest service station. If the contracted policy does not contemplate this, it will always be an option to hire a private crane.
It is better prevent
The alarm signals installed in cars serve a vital function. Ignoring the information on our dashboard can cause momentary inconveniences – ending up stopped due to lack of fuel – and can also cause considerable damage to the vehicle.
The fuel pump is at risk in cases where the tank reserve is used up. In diesel vehicles, the impurities that usually accumulate at the bottom of the tank can clog the injectors.
If I run out of gas, do I get a ticket?
There is no penalty for ending up stopped for depleting the gas tank reserve. What is grounds for sanction is ending up parked in a prohibited area or obstructing the free movement of vehicles.
