Stay in Your Car

If you drive, at some point you’ll find yourself stopped on the side of a highway or a busy road. Maybe it’s a flat tire or dead battery. Perhaps you ran out of gas or got in a fender bender. Whatever the reason, you should always stay in your car. Experts agree that your vehicle is the safest place. It’s built to protect you in an impact. But if you get out, even just for a second, you are vulnerable to other cars speeding by.

By the Numbers

As instances of speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving rise, so does the risk to drivers and passengers who exit their vehicle. In fact, Connecticut has seen an increase in crashes and fatalities involving emergency professionals and everyday people left exposed on the side of the road.

Drive to Save Lives – What We’re Doing

For the first time ever, CTDOT is spreading the word to help prevent this dangerous behavior with a public education campaign in popular social media channels and promoted through public relations. The campaign reminds drivers to stay in their car regardless of the reason for stopping.

Drive to Save Lives – What You Can Do

Stay in your car!

Don’t get out. Not even for a second. Remain in your vehicle until help arrives. When police, tow truck operators or other first responders arrive, they will direct you when it’s safe to get out.

Call for help right away

Unless your vehicle is safely off the road and away from other traffic, call 9-1-1 right away. They will contact local police to provide immediate assistance.

Don't let others exit

Instruct all passengers to also remain in the vehicle. Exiting from either side of the vehicle can be deadly.

Don't stop and go

Never stop on the side of the highway for bathroom breaks or to check your load. Wait for a rest stop or exit to pull off safely.

Keep your seatbelt on

As you remain in your vehicle, also stay in your seat with your seatbelt fastened. And make sure all passengers stay buckled in as well, including children in child safety seats.

Put on your flashers

To maximize the visibility of your vehicle, put on your hazard lights while you are stopped. Do not attempt to set up your own flares or warning triangles. Stay in your car!