Staying Safe During a Roadside Emergency: A Step-by-Step Guide for Hawaii Drivers

Hawaii’s scenic highways and winding coastal routes make driving a memorable experience, but they also present unique challenges when unexpected vehicle issues occur. Whether you encounter a flat tire, overheating engine, or mechanical failure, handling a roadside emergency safely requires calm attention, preparation, and awareness of your surroundings. This guide outlines a step-by-step process for drivers to follow when they must stop unexpectedly, along with practical tips for staying safe, comfortable, and visible while waiting for assistance.

Pull Off Safely and Choose a Secure Spot

The priority during any roadside emergency is finding a safe place to stop. Drivers should reduce speed gradually, avoiding sudden braking or swerving, and steer as far to the right shoulder as possible. On narrow or curving roads, such as those found along coastal or mountain routes, it may be safer to continue driving slowly until reaching a wider turnout or designated pull-off area.

When possible, choose a location that offers both visibility and distance from moving traffic. Avoid stopping on blind curves, bridges, or near intersections where approaching drivers may not anticipate a stopped vehicle. Once the vehicle is safely off the road, activate the hazard lights immediately to signal to other motorists that your vehicle is disabled.

If your car stalls in an active lane and cannot be moved, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened and turn on the hazard lights. Call for help immediately and do not attempt to push or exit the vehicle until it is safe to do so.

Set Up Hazard Triangles and Warning Devices

After stopping in a secure location, make your vehicle visible to others. Reflective hazard triangles or flares are highly effective, especially at night or during low-light conditions. Place the first triangle approximately 10 feet behind your vehicle, the second about 100 feet behind, and the third around 200 feet behind. This staggered setup gives oncoming drivers ample warning to slow down.

If you have reflective vests or a flashlight, use them while placing warning devices to ensure you remain visible. Avoid standing directly in traffic lanes, and never turn your back on approaching vehicles. When weather or road conditions reduce visibility—such as rain, fog, or glare from sunlight—additional lighting or reflective materials can significantly enhance safety for you and others.

Keeping emergency equipment easily accessible, such as in a trunk organizer or side compartment, allows for quick deployment without unnecessary searching.

Note Mile Markers and Share Your Location

Precise location details can greatly speed up roadside assistance or emergency response. When it is safe, identify nearby mile markers, exit numbers, or recognizable landmarks. Many highways in Hawaii include small green signs marking each mile, which can help responders pinpoint your location quickly.

If you use a smartphone, enable location services before calling for help. Many roadside assistance programs and towing companies can locate your position automatically using GPS. If you are using a roadside app or communicating by text, include your direction of travel (e.g., “heading east toward Kailua-Kona”) and any nearby cross streets or landmarks.

For drivers in rural areas or along coastal roads where mile markers may be sparse, note the nearest town, bridge, or public park. Accurate information reduces confusion and ensures help arrives as efficiently as possible.

Call for Roadside Help or Emergency Services

Once your vehicle is secure and visible, contact roadside assistance or emergency services. If you are a member of an auto club or manufacturer’s roadside program, provide your membership number and describe the issue clearly—such as a flat tire, empty fuel tank, or mechanical malfunction.

If you suspect a safety risk—such as smoke, leaking fuel, or traffic hazards—call 911 immediately. Provide your exact location, vehicle description, and any relevant details about your surroundings. Remaining calm and clear during communication allows responders to prioritize resources effectively.

While waiting, keep your hazard lights on, doors locked, and windows slightly open for ventilation if needed. It’s best to remain inside your vehicle unless it’s unsafe to do so, such as on steep grades or near active traffic.

Stay Hydrated and Seek Shade When Possible

Hawaii’s warm climate means that even brief waits on the roadside can become uncomfortable. If it is safe, open windows slightly to allow airflow, and use sunshades to reduce heat buildup inside the vehicle.

Keep bottled water within reach for all occupants, and if conditions permit, step out into a shaded area nearby while maintaining a clear view of your vehicle. Avoid standing close to the roadway or directly behind guardrails where visibility may be reduced.

If waiting extends beyond thirty minutes, periodically check your phone battery and conserve power by dimming the screen or closing unused apps. In case of a limited signal, remain in your vehicle to maintain safety and comfort.

Keep Essential Items in Your Vehicle

Preparation reduces stress during emergencies. A well-equipped vehicle should include:

• A reflective safety vest and flashlight with extra batteries

• Hazard triangles or road flares

• A basic first-aid kit

• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

• A portable phone charger or power bank

• A small tool kit and a tire pressure gauge

• A rain poncho or umbrella

• A notepad and pen for recording incident details

Storing these items in an organized container allows for easy access when needed. Regularly checking expiration dates on medical supplies and ensuring lights and batteries are functional can prevent frustration when time is critical.

Things to Photograph Before Assistance Arrives

Documenting your vehicle’s condition and surroundings can help with later service or insurance discussions. When it is safe to do so, take photographs of:

• The affected tire, engine, or area of concern

• Dashboard warning lights or error messages

• The immediate surroundings, including the road surface and the shoulder area

• Any visible damage or fluid leaks

• Road signs, mile markers, or nearby landmarks

Avoid standing in traffic lanes while taking pictures, and always remain aware of approaching vehicles. Use your phone’s flash only when it will not impair other drivers’ visibility.

Moving Forward With Preparedness and Awareness

Roadside incidents can happen without warning, but preparation and composure can prevent them from escalating into dangerous situations. By following a systematic approach—pulling off safely, making your vehicle visible, sharing accurate location details, and waiting responsibly—you protect yourself and others on the road.

Hawaii’s roads connect diverse communities, and maintaining patience and awareness in challenging moments reflects the shared spirit of care that defines travel across the islands. Safe driving includes not only how we move but also how we respond when plans change unexpectedly.

Contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner

If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a roadway incident, contact Leavitt, Yamane & Soldner to discuss your situation with our experienced personal injury lawyer. Call (808) 537-2525 today to learn more about how we can assist after a serious injury.