If you’re stranded in a remote area, you need to know how to get help. It’s important to be well-prepared before getting stuck so you have a plan for how to get out of your predicament. First, let everyone know where you are and that you’re in trouble and may be unable to return on your own. Always try to stay calm and collected to avoid panic. Assess the situation and determine what steps you need to take. If you’re unable to get help on your own, call 911 or the local emergency services. If you don’t have cell phone coverage, use your car’s emergency alert system or walk to the nearest road to attract attention.
Make sure you can afford it.
If you plan on driving a vehicle on your own, you’ll want to consider how you would get home if your car broke down. There are many situations that might cause you to get stranded on the road. You could get lost and have no way to communicate with anyone. Or you could run out of fuel and be forced to walk or hitch a ride. If you don’t have a car, you’ll need a reliable way to get home in case something happens.
You can call a cab, but it might cost more than you think.
If you’re planning to use Uber, Lyft or any other ride-sharing service for getting home, make sure to compare the costs and choose the one that suits you best. That will give you a good idea of what it will cost to call a cab. You can also try GoAhead and Taxis in the area to get a lower price.
Find out about services in your community.
If you’re wondering if you’re eligible to file a disabled access claim to get home, you likely are. There are many disabilities that can keep you from driving, such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy or arthritis. Depending on your disability, you may be able to file with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. If that’s the case, they’ll likely refer you to driver’s licensing organizations. In addition, they can point you in the right direction for accessing a wheelchair van or other accessible transportation.
Consider renting a car with a free mileage allowance.
If you plan to use a vehicle for travel during your trip, you should also consider renting a car with a free mileage allowance. When you rent a car with a free mileage allowance, you’re given a certain amount of miles for free. When you add-on additional mileage, you’ll pay a per-mile rate. This option can be a great way to return to your hotel or vacation rental if you get stranded. Plus, with a free mileage car, you won’t have to worry about getting back to the base of your vacation rental to retrieve your belongings if you need to.
Call a ride-sharing service.
If you’re stranded somewhere other than your own home, ride-sharing services can help you get home safely and affordably. But you need to ask first and make sure the company is reputable and follows safety protocols. When you call a ride service, describe your location and what you need help with, and they will match you with a driver based on your location and needs. Before you book a ride, make sure the driver’s vehicle is insured and in good working condition.
Keep your emergency kit stocked.
Having a way to alert emergency responders to your location is the most important thing. Cell phones are the most common way for people to report a location. If you don’t have one, consider a small radio that uses a simple two-button alert system. The buttons have raised surfaces so you can locate the unit quickly, find the buttons, and press them to alert emergency responders to your location.
Make sure your car is in good working condition.
Before getting out on the road, make sure you have a detailed emergency plan. If you’re planning on getting stranded in the middle of the road, make sure you have a flashlight, a blanket, water, snacks and any other supplies you might need. For single mothers who may be facing unexpected car repairs or other transportation-related expenses, car assistance programs can be a valuable resource. By preparing for emergencies with a small kit that can be easily stored in your car and knowing where to turn for assistance, single mothers can feel more secure in their ability to handle unexpected challenges.
Conclusion
If you are stranded in a remote area, here are some steps you can take to help you get home safely. First, make sure your cell phone has charged and is fully functional. If not, charge it and keep it with you. Next, find out if there is any other personal or emergency communications equipment in your car. If not, write down the location of where you are and the route you were taking. Try to take a picture of the area and any landmarks or areas of interest. If you have a smartphone, your phone might also have a compass. Using it, you can try to locate the car and/or yourself. Now, if you have a GPS, try to get the location of the car and your phone. If you do not have a cell phone or any of the other items mentioned, you will need to make a fire signal or try to attract attention.
