CAA receives 500 calls per hour, provides tips for stranded motorists

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) says it received a deluge of assistance calls in the midst of an epic blizzard that shut major roadways and left many motorists stranded.

In an update Monday morning, the CAA said its South Central Ontario division is receiving about 500 calls per hour and it’s advising members to avoid calling unless it’s an emergency.

It has temporarily suspended at-home service in order to prioritize more serious calls.

“We are asking members who are at home safe to call us after the storm passes,” the CAA said in a release.

“Our focus is to respond to high priority calls first including those stranded on roads and highways or safety-related.  For that reason, at-home service is not available. Our aim is to get everyone home safe and sound today.”

If a member ends up looking elsewhere for home service, the CAA says they will be reimbursed.

The CAA has provided these tips for those who had to travel on Monday. 

How to handle a highway breakdown or collision

Vehicle breakdowns and collisions can occur when you least expect them to. Here are some general guidelines to follow if your vehicle breaks down on a highway.

Pull off the road

• Pull onto the highway shoulder as quickly and safely as possible.
• Remember to signal and try to remain on level ground.
• Alternatively, if you need to pull onto the left shoulder, ensure that you are as far away from moving traffic as possible.
• If you CANNOT pull off the road, turn on your hazard lights. Do not risk injury by attempting to push your car to a safe location.
• Leave your vehicle only if there is a safer area to move to, away from the highway.

Note your vehicle’s location

• Look for a major exit.
• Note landmarks such as service stations, restaurants, shopping centres and business complexes.
• Do you remember the last exit name or any numbered signs near your location? This will be useful to know when calling for assistance.

Assess your vehicle’s operating problem

• Did you hear any unusual noises, experience any out-of-the-ordinary car responses or note any steam or smoke coming from under the hood?
• If you must get out of your vehicle to assess the situation, watch carefully for oncoming traffic, especially at night or in bad weather.
• Exit the vehicle from the side away from traffic. Also never stand behind or directly in front of your vehicle, as you risk being struck by drivers who might not see you.

Alert other motorists by making your vehicle visible

• Turn on your hazard lights, especially at night or in bad weather.
• Raise your vehicle’s hood.
• If you have a bright handkerchief, scarf or light jacket, tie it to the antenna or door handle, or hold it in place by closing it in a window.

Call 911 and communicate your situation

• Once you and your passengers are in a safe location, call 911.
• They will advise you on what to do. After calling emergency services, call a family member or friend and advise them of your situation and location.

Call for roadside assistance.

Call for assistance and tell the operator the following:

• Your membership number if you are a CAA Member.
• The phone number where you can be reached.
• Your location.
• A description of your vehicle.
• The nature of your problem.
• Describe any circumstances that may require special towing or transport considerations, such as an unusual or rare vehicle, large number of passengers, infants, animals, medical needs or whether your vehicle requires special fuel.
• Advise the road service operator that you have called 911.