Stranded drivers beware

THORNHILL, ON, Feb. 19 /CNW/ - If stranded on the side of the road, CAA recommends drivers make themselves as visible as possible to passing motorists, especially on a busy highway or at night time.

"Don't assume drivers can see you," said Silvana Aceto, spokesperson for CAA SCO. "The recent tragic events on our roads remind us how important it is to know what to do if you find yourself stuck on the side of the road."

Keep the following items handy in your vehicle: a reflective vest, a flashlight, flares and a fully charged cell phone to call for help.

CAA is reminding motorists each case is unique and drivers must assess their own personal safety before getting out of their vehicles.

"There's no hard and fast rule. Sometimes staying in your vehicle with your seatbelt on is the safest option. Other times, it's getting as far away from the side of the road as possible."

In all cases, CAA advises people to stay calm and choose the safest option.

CAA South Central Ontario is a not-for-profit auto club offering insurance, travel, automotive care and roadside services. There are more than 1.8 million CAA members in South Central Ontario and 5 million members in Canada. Visit www.caasco.com.

For further information: Media contact: Silvana Aceto, Media and PR Specialist, CAA SCO, 60 Commerce Valley Drive East, Thornhill, ON, L3T 7P9, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone], and/or Jason Ballantyne, Manager, communications, CAA SCO, [email protected], [phone], Cell: [phone]