Lexington Drivers in Disabled Vehicles Can Get Assistance, But Are Cautioned to Keep Safety in Mind When Stopping

Lexington drivers have access to a new service if their vehicle becomes disabled while driving Lexington-Fayette county roadways. 

In January, Chief Ronnie Bastin, of the Lexington, KY, Division of Police Officers, announced the VIP Vehicle Program as a public safety service for Lexington residents with empty gas tanks, dead batteries and other non-emergency roadside issues. 

The program, which is staffed by adult volunteers, will dispatch the VIP Vehicle to assist motorists.  The volunteers will supplement the police officers who routinely provide motorist assistance, freeing up the officers for emergency calls. 

Our Lexington car accident attorneys support public service efforts that come to the aid of drivers in distress.  We also caution drivers to be aware of the dangers of stopped vehicles on Kentucky highways. 

A year ago, a Somerset man died when he was struck by a car as he stood in the roadway near his wrecked vehicle.  The approaching driver was temporarily blinded by the setting sun and did not see the man.  

As gas prices rise to near-record levels, many drivers try to eke out the last drop of their gas before filling up again.  Unfortunately, that can lead to danger to the driver and others sharing the road with them if the car runs out of gas and stops in the roadway.  Making it safely to your destination can begin with proper planning.  Ensure that your vehicle is properly maintained and has an appropriate amount of fuel for your trip before heading out. 

AAA reports that each year thousands of motorists become stranded on American highways.  They stress, however, that the manner in which the situation is dealt with can make a difference to the safety of the vehicle occupants.  

In the brochure “What to Do if Your Vehicle Breaks Down,” the group says if you run out of gas or your engine stops, turn on the flashers, carefully steer your vehicle out of traffic and let the vehicle’s momentum get you off the road to a safe place. Avoid applying the brakes until necessary. 

For interstate travel, the National Safety Council (NSC) suggests trying to reach an exit and pull into the parking lot of an open business, if possible. Otherwise, pull fully off the road and make your car visible by turning on flashers and the dome light, if at night.  The NSC also suggests placing safety triangles or flares around the car. 

Both organizations point out the dangers of being struck while standing in the roadway and strongly encourage caution when exiting the vehicle. AAA adds, “if you are uncertain about your safety and think your vehicle may get struck from behind do not stay in your vehicle.” Trying to get out and run to the side of the road could be deadly so use extreme caution when crossing lanes of the highway. 

Our personal injury attorneys recognize there are times when it is necessary to stop your vehicle when traveling on Kentucky highways.  We urge you to use extreme caution when stopping, or when you come upon a stopped vehicle on the highway.  Visit the Kentucky State Police website for emergency contact information.