Sergeant Matt Ames, with the Indiana State Police, gave some useful tips on being prepared for any vehicle emergency that may result in your vehicle being stuck on the side of a roadway, including the interstate. This, of course, comes after the fatal vehicle vs. pedestrian accident that occurred on Christmas Day:

• Pull Over to the emergency (right) side of the roadway
• Activate Emergency Lights
• Exit on the passenger side of the vehicle
• Keep warning triangles/utility vest in your vehicle

Sergeant Ames also encourages you to keep a flashlight with you or use the light on your phone if you find yourself in a situation where you must walk to another location on the roadway. If a roadway does not have a shoulder police advise having your emergency lights on, slowing the vehicle to 10 mph, and calling police immediately.

It was also pointed out that drivers must move over to the adjacent lane when another vehicle is on the emergency side of the road. This law was passed during the summer of this year and it is advised that if you are unable to change lanes you proceed with caution to allow pedestrians to have as much space as possible and to prevent any injuries or damage.