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Drivers navigating commutes and school zones face increased risk as long summer days transition to long winter nights.
How can you keep your family safe during vehicle emergencies and other times where you may need to pull over to the side of the road?
“Being seen is just as important as being safe,” said Alvaro Avila, who has started MCA Roadside Assistance. “If other drivers can’t spot you, they can’t avoid you, which makes visibility accessories a first line of defense in roadside emergencies.”
As a teenager, Avila familiarized himself with roadside emergencies by helping neighbors jump-start cars, change flat tires and get stranded vehicles back on the road. He turned that passion for safety and preparedness into a profession.
Avila responds to hundreds of calls for roadside emergencies ranging from stalled engines to vehicle lockouts. He recommends following accessories to improve driver safety and visibility this fall:
1. LED Road Flares
Battery-powered LED flares are visible in fog, rain or dusk and help mark a safe perimeter around your vehicle. Use three flares and ”space them 10-60 feet behind your car.”
Flares with built-in magnets or fold-out stands offer maximum visibility because they can be positioned on the ground or lined along the roadside.
”Look for waterproof and crushproof LED flares,” Avila said.
”As they may need to be placed in water or withstand the impact of vehicles running over them.”
2. Reflective Triangles
Lightweight and foldable reflective triangles redirect beams of light toward approaching drivers. For optimal visibility, place three triangles behind your vehicle at 10,50 and 100 feet.
”This is an emergency cue for drivers approaching at high speeds to slow down,” Avila said.
Pairing reflective triangles with LED flares because triangles do not generate light.
3. High-Lumen Headlamps
When checking under the hood at night, it’s important to keep both hands free to safely inspect the battery, fuses or alternator if your vehicle stalls.
“A high-lumen headlamp allows you to work faster during roadside emergencies without juggling a flashlight,” Avila said.
Using headlamps with at least 300 lumens and red-light features that warn motorists without affecting their night vision.
4. Reflective Safety Vests
Neon yellow or orange vests with reflective strips allow you to be seen from all angles. Keep the vest in the glove box or driver’s side pocket, so you can wear it quickly without exiting the vehicle.
Check for EN 20471 or ANSI/ISEA 107 safety labels, indicating it meets recognized visibility standards for roadside emergencies.
5. USB Power Bank / Rechargeable Battery Pack
A backup battery pack keeps your phone and rechargeable lights powered during unexpected delays.
“High-capacity models of 10,000 mAh or more” are best, according to Avila. He relies on them because they can recharge your phones and other devices multiple times.
Pro reminder: Test the backup battery every month. Keep it insulated in a glove compartment to preserve full power in chilly fall weather.
6. LED Armband or Wristband
Lightweight bands that flash on your arms are easier to see in fog or at night. A compact, wearable design makes them a handy accessory for your emergency kit.
Bands can be the “difference between being overlooked and instantly noticed,” Avila said.
If you’re stranded, use the blinking mode as it’s more likely to catch a driver’s attention than a steady glow.
7. Rear Window LED Signal Panel
Flashing message panels with words like HELP or EMERGENCY on your window send a clear signal to oncoming cars.
Keep the remote within reach and mount the LED signal panel at eye level so approaching motorists can spot it quickly. Spare batteries or a power bank to ensure the panel stays illuminated until help arrives.
”Passing drivers immediately know you’re in distress and respond faster.”
8. LED Safety Cones
Light-up cones with reflective strips alert traffic coming from both directions. Place them 6 to 10 feet in front and behind your vehicle to create a safety buffer.
”Position the cones slightly angled toward oncoming traffic, so headlights catch the reflective strips early,” Avila said.
Spreading out the cones also gives other road users plenty of time to react and respond during roadside emergencies.
Opt for safety cones with reflective panels to make sure your broken down vehicle is visible to passing drivers.
“The more visible you make yourself, the better your chances of avoiding a collision and being seen quickly—whether by emergency responders or a passing motorist willing to help,” said Avila.
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