What Should You Do When You Run Out Of Gas?

Have you ever run out of gas on an abandoned stretch of road? Running out of fuel is always bad news, especially when you are far from the nearest gas station. Even the best-prepared drivers face a crisis now and again. Read on to find out what you should (and shouldn’t) do if you run out of gas. 

Pull Over as soon as the Engine Begins to Falter

Not many drivers realize how serious running out the gas can be for their engine. If you continue to try to drive even though the engine is sputtering, air and dirt can enter the fuel lines and cause the fuel pump to fail.

If your gas tank’s warning light has been lit for a while and you notice a lack of acceleration when you press the gas pedal, pull over without accelerating further. It’s definitely inconvenient to be stuck without gas in your tank, but it will be much more frustrating if you have to make a major repair on your car as well.

Put on Your Hazard Lights

With what’s left of the power in your car’s engine, try to navigate your vehicle to a safe position on the roadside. Pull as far to the right as you can and immediately put on your hazard lights. If you have flares or reflector cones, set them up both in front of and behind your car so oncoming drivers are warned of your presence.

Call for Emergency Help

If you have nearby friends or family members who might offer a helping hand, call them and ask for a delivery of a few gallons of gas. Or if you have a roadside assistance plan, notify them of your situation. When you feel nervous or are unsure about the safety of your car’s position, call the police. If you are out of cell phone service range, your 911 call will still be routed to the nearest police station. Try not to use up all of your cell phone battery while you wait, just in case you need it again.

If You Decide to Walk, Take Safety Precautions

If you are stranded on the highway, it’s best to stay in your car. However, if your vehicle is located close to an exit ramp, it may be feasible for you to exit the car and make your way to the nearest gas station on your own. Just make sure you walk well away from the pavement, all the way to the right in the grass. Don’t take this risk if the weather is bad and you aren’t sure where the closest gas station may be — you’re better off waiting for help.

Call a Towing Service

Contact a local towing company that provides roadside fuel assistance. The tow driver will put enough gas in your tank to make sure you make it safely to the nearest gas station.

Save the contact information for Stauffer’s Towing in case you run out of gas and need help refueling your vehicle and getting back on the roadway — the team is available to help 24 hours a day, seven days per week.