Running out of gas is a common problem that can happen to anyone. It can be embarrassing, inconvenient, and even dangerous if you don’t know who to call for help. There are several options available to you, depending on your situation.
What to Do When You Run Out of Gas
Calling for Help
When you run out of gas, it’s important to contact someone who can help you. Here are some options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Call a friend or family member | This is the most convenient and often the cheapest option. If someone you know is nearby, they might be able to bring you some gas or tow you to a gas station. |
| Call a roadside assistance service | If you have a roadside assistance plan, they can usually send someone to help you. This may involve delivering gas or towing you to a gas station. |
| Call a towing company | A towing company can tow you to a gas station or another location. |
| Call a gas delivery service | Some companies specialize in delivering gas to stranded motorists. This can be a convenient option, but it may be more expensive than other options. |
Preparing for a Call
Here are some things to do before you make a call for help:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Pull over to a safe location | Make sure you’re not blocking traffic and that you’re in a well-lit area, especially if it’s dark outside. |
| Turn on your hazard lights | This will alert other drivers to your location. |
| Gather your information | This includes your location, the type of vehicle you’re driving, and any relevant details about your roadside assistance plan. |
Tips for Preventing Running Out of Gas
It’s always best to avoid running out of gas in the first place. Here are some tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Check your gas gauge regularly | Don’t wait until your tank is nearly empty to fill up. |
| Keep a spare gas can in your car | This can come in handy in case of emergency. |
| Plan your routes | Consider the distance you’ll be driving and the locations of gas stations along your route. |
What to Do While Waiting for Help
While you’re waiting for help, here are some things you can do:
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Stay in your car | Unless it’s unsafe to do so, it’s best to stay in your car. |
| Lock your doors | This will help to deter theft. |
| Be patient | It may take some time for help to arrive. |
Cost of Running Out of Gas
The cost of running out of gas can vary depending on the method of assistance you choose.
| Method | Cost |
|---|---|
| Roadside assistance | Usually covered by your insurance or a separate plan. |
| Towing company | Varies depending on the distance and the company. |
| Gas delivery service | Usually more expensive than other options. |
Can I call someone if I run out of gas?
Absolutely! Calling someone for help when you run out of gas is a common and sensible solution. There are many options you can explore depending on your situation and resources. You can call:
- A friend or family member: They might be able to bring you some gas or tow you to a gas station.
- A roadside assistance service: Many car insurance policies include roadside assistance, which can provide you with gas delivery, towing, or other services.
- A local towing company: They can tow your car to a gas station or a repair shop.
- A gas delivery service: These services specialize in delivering gas to vehicles that have run out.
- The police: In an emergency situation, or if you are stranded in a dangerous location, the police can help you.
What to do before calling
Before calling anyone, make sure you’re in a safe location and have the following information ready:
- Your exact location: Include the street address, landmarks, or GPS coordinates.
- Your car’s make and model: This information will help the person you call understand what type of car you have.
- The type of gasoline your car needs: You’ll need to specify regular, premium, or diesel fuel.
- Your contact information: Provide your phone number and any other relevant contact details.
What to do after calling
Once you’ve contacted someone for help, you should:
- Be patient: It may take some time for someone to arrive.
- Stay safe: If you’re stranded on the side of the road, stay in your car with the doors locked and the windows rolled up.
- Be polite: Thank the person who helps you and express your appreciation.
Tips for preventing running out of gas
To avoid running out of gas in the future, you can:
- Keep track of your fuel gauge: Make sure you know how much gas you have left and fill up before it gets too low.
- Plan your trips: Before embarking on a long drive, factor in the distance and gas stations along your route.
- Use a fuel-efficient driving style: Driving at a moderate speed and avoiding hard acceleration and braking can help you conserve fuel.
Additional considerations
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings: If you’re stranded in a remote or dangerous area, you may want to call for help sooner rather than later.
- Have a backup plan: Consider having a portable gas can in your car in case of emergency.
- Consider a fuel-efficient car: If you often find yourself running out of gas, you may want to consider purchasing a car with better fuel economy.
What to do if you completely run out of gas?
Stay Calm
The first and most important thing to do is to stay calm. Panicking won’t help, and it could actually make the situation worse. Take a few deep breaths, assess the situation, and make a plan.
Pull Over Safely
If you’re on a busy road, try to pull over to the side of the road as safely as possible. If you’re on a highway, you may need to drive to the next exit. Use your hazard lights to warn other drivers that you’re stopped.
- Find a safe spot: Look for a well-lit and visible area, preferably off the main road, to avoid accidents.
- Engage your parking brake: Put your car in park and engage the parking brake to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
- Turn on your hazard lights: This will alert other drivers to your presence and prevent them from colliding with you.
Contact for Assistance
You can call a roadside assistance service, a family member, or a friend. If you’re a member of an auto club, you’ll likely have roadside assistance as part of your membership. If you don’t have a cell phone, try to find a payphone or a gas station where you can call for help.
- Call your insurance provider: Check your insurance policy to see if they offer roadside assistance coverage.
- Call a roadside assistance service: Companies like AAA or other local providers can send a tow truck or provide assistance.
- Contact a family member or friend: Ask them to bring gas or tow you to a safe location.
Wait for Assistance
Once you’ve contacted for assistance, you’ll need to wait for them to arrive. It’s important to stay with your car, especially if you’re on a busy road. If you need to use the restroom or get some fresh air, make sure to lock your car and leave your valuables out of sight.
Prevention Tips
The best way to avoid running out of gas is to keep track of your fuel gauge. If you’re low on gas, fill up as soon as possible. You can also set a reminder on your phone to remind yourself to fill up your car.
- Monitor your fuel gauge regularly: Don’t wait until the warning light comes on, check your fuel level frequently.
- Calculate your range: Factor in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and driving conditions to estimate how far you can go on a full tank.
- Fill up early: If you’re planning a long trip, or if you’re unsure about the availability of gas stations, fill up your tank before you leave.
Who can help if I run out of gas?
Running out of gas can be a stressful situation, but thankfully, there are several people or services who can assist you.
Roadside Assistance Services
Roadside assistance services are designed specifically to handle situations like running out of gas. They can:
- Send a tow truck to safely transport your vehicle to a gas station.
- Deliver gasoline directly to your location, allowing you to refill your tank and continue driving.
- Provide emergency assistance for other issues, such as flat tires, dead batteries, and lockouts.
Family and Friends
If you’re stranded close to home, your family or friends might be able to help.
- They could bring you a container of gasoline to get you back on the road.
- They might be able to give you a ride to a gas station or tow your vehicle if they have the necessary equipment.
Good Samaritans
While not guaranteed, you might encounter a kind stranger willing to lend a hand.
- They could drive you to a gas station or even purchase gasoline for you.
- They could call for assistance on your behalf.
Local Businesses
Businesses along the road, such as convenience stores or gas stations, may offer some assistance.
- They might have gasoline containers available for sale.
- They could make a call for help or even provide a temporary safe haven while you wait.
Law Enforcement Agencies
If you’re stranded in a dangerous location or concerned about your safety, calling law enforcement is the best course of action.
- They can provide assistance with getting gasoline, a tow truck, or other resources.
- They can ensure your safety while you wait for help.
Should you call 911 if you run out of gas?
No, you should not call 911 if you run out of gas. 911 is for emergencies only, such as:
A fire
A medical emergency
A crime in progress
Calling 911 for a non-emergency situation can tie up emergency lines and delay response to a genuine emergency.
What to do if you run out of gas?
If you run out of gas, you should:
1. Pull over to a safe location. This means finding a spot that is out of traffic and well-lit.
2. Turn on your hazard lights. This will alert other drivers to your presence.
3. Call a tow truck or a roadside assistance service. These services can help you get gas or tow your car to a safe location.
4. Wait for help. Do not attempt to walk to a gas station or flag down passing cars, as this is dangerous.
Why calling 911 is inappropriate
Calling 911 for a non-emergency situation like running out of gas is inappropriate for several reasons:
1. It ties up emergency lines. 911 operators are trained to handle emergency situations, and they have limited resources. When you call for a non-emergency, you are taking away those resources from people who may need them.
2. It can delay emergency response times. When emergency lines are tied up with non-emergency calls, it can delay response times for people who are experiencing a genuine emergency.
3. It is a waste of taxpayer money. Emergency services are funded by taxpayers, and using them for non-emergency situations is a waste of those resources.
What is considered an emergency?
An emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention to prevent serious injury or death. Some examples of emergencies include:
1. A fire
2. A medical emergency
3. A crime in progress
4. A natural disaster
5. A hazardous materials spill
What are some alternatives to calling 911?
If you are in a situation that is not an emergency but you need help, there are several alternatives to calling 911. Some of these alternatives include:
1. Calling a tow truck
2. Calling a roadside assistance service
3. Calling a friend or family member for help
4. Using a mobile app like Waze or Google Maps to find a gas station or a safe location to wait for help
What if I’m stranded in a dangerous location?
If you are stranded in a dangerous location, such as a remote area or a high-crime neighborhood, you should call 911. However, you should be prepared to explain the situation to the operator and let them know that you are not in an immediate emergency. The operator will be able to assess the situation and provide guidance on what to do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I run out of gas?
The first thing you should do is pull over to a safe location. This could be a gas station, a parking lot, or even the shoulder of the road if necessary. Once you’re in a safe spot, you should turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of your location. Then, you can call for help. You can call a friend, family member, or a roadside assistance service like roadside solution atlanta .
Who should I call if I run out of gas?
The best person to call depends on your individual situation. If you have a roadside assistance program through your insurance company or car manufacturer, you should call them first. They will likely be able to send a tow truck to your location and provide you with a gas delivery service. If you don’t have roadside assistance, you can call a friend, family member, or a local towing company.
What if I don’t have any money to pay for gas?
If you are truly stranded and have no way to pay for gas, you can call your local police department or highway patrol. They can usually offer you some assistance, including help getting in touch with a local towing company or gas station.
What should I do if I’m running low on gas?
The best way to avoid running out of gas is to keep track of your fuel gauge and fill up your tank before it gets too low. If you are driving on a long trip, you should plan your route and factor in stops for gas. If you are driving on a highway, make sure you have enough gas to reach the next exit or rest area.