Working on a Railroad vehicle

Sometimes, it happens anyway, no matter how well you keep your truck up. If you drive enough miles, something is going to break and you need roadside assistance.

TIPS

Here are tips to make sure it does not get worse.

• The first thing you should do is make sure you are safe. This includes getting as far away from traffic as possible.
• If that is not an option, then turn on your flashers and set out flares or triangles to let oncoming traffic know that your truck is disabled.
• Raising your hood is a universal signal that your truck is disabled (it also makes it easier for the roadside team to spot you).
• Do not stand outside the vehicle. It is a sure bet you will be injured at best.
• If you do not feel safe or cannot reach dispatch or a roadside service, call 911. They will send an officer to check on you. Police officers also know all the service trucks in the area and can recommend someone.

TECH ON SCENE

Things to keep in mind after roadside assistance arrives on scene.

• Social Distancing. It is likely to continue to be the “new normal” for a long time, so please remember it when interacting with the tech. We have worked throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and have managed to make it through it. We prefer to keep it that way.
• Try to stay out of the way. The tech that arrives knows their job and knows how to do it well and can usually do it faster if you stay out of the way unless they ask you for help.
• Be courteous. We know you have been waiting a long time for us and we will get you back on the road as safely and as quickly as possible. Attitude can make the difference in everyone’s life in this situation. Remember, we are stressed too, because we have more drivers waiting in line that we still need to help. When we get you back on the road, we do not get to just go on our merry way.

Keep these tips in mind the next time you find yourself in a less-than-pleasant situation and things will go smoother for everyone involved.