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Few situations are more nerve-racking than having your car sputter, lose electrical power, or overheat while driving after dark in Lagos. Whether stranded along the Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, crossing the Carter Bridge, or maneuvering through an unlit street on the Mainland, your immediate focus must be safety and visibility.

At Oluwanisholaautomobile, our mobile mechanic vans operate emergency callout services across Lagos. While help is on the way, here are the key things you should—and should not—do to protect yourself and your vehicle.

1. Use Remaining Momentum to Clear Traffic Lanes

The moment you feel sudden engine power loss or notice battery or coolant warning lights, switch on your hazard flashers immediately. If the vehicle is still moving safely, use its remaining momentum to steer away from active traffic lanes.

Move toward the furthest safe breakdown shoulder, service lane, or well-lit filling-station forecourt where possible. Avoid making sudden movements that could put you or other road users at greater risk.

2. Secure the Vehicle and Place Your C-Caution

Once you are in a safe position, shift into Park, apply the parking brake, and keep your hazard lights flashing.

If you have a reflective C-caution triangle and it is safe to place it, position it behind the vehicle far enough away to give approaching drivers adequate warning. On dark or busy roads, never put yourself in danger just to place a warning triangle.

3. What NOT to Attempt in the Dark

• Do not open a hot radiator cap: Pressurized coolant can cause severe burns. Allow the engine to cool before attempting to inspect the cooling system.
• Do not accept jump-starts from unknown sources: Incorrect jumper-cable connections can damage sensitive electrical components. If you are unsure, wait for a qualified technician.
• Avoid standing directly in front of or behind the vehicle: Poor visibility and passing traffic can create additional danger. Move to a safer location away from moving vehicles when possible.
• Do not attempt complicated repairs beside a busy road: A nighttime breakdown is not the right situation for major mechanical work. Focus on getting yourself and the vehicle to a safer location and arrange professional assistance.

4. Dispatch Accurate Location Information

When calling for emergency mechanic assistance, open WhatsApp and share your location. Supplement your location with clear, recognizable landmarks such as the closest bus stop, pedestrian bridge, billboard, filling station, or nearby landmark building.

If possible, also provide your vehicle's make, model, color, and the problem you noticed. Accurate information helps the mechanic understand what equipment may be required before arriving.