When your car breaks down on the freeway, you have a lot running through your mind at once. You're first thought is one of alarm. From there you go through everything from hoping you don't get hit by the cars around you to worrying about how much it's going to cost to fix the problem. If you can direct your thoughts in those crucial moments when something's going wrong, you could do a lot for your safety, your car's safety and the safety of others.

1. Take your foot off the accelerator

If your engine light comes on, or your car starts to act weird, take your foot off the gas and find a safe place to pull over. Driving your car when it's malfunctioning can cause more severe damage to the car and could lead you to lose complete control of the car putting yourself and others at risk.

2. Find a safe place to pull over

If possible, take an exit close-by but only if you feel confident it's well-lit and safe. If you're by yourself, it may be better to stay on the freeway as long as you find a place as far off the main road as possible.

3. Call the right resources

Call 911, AAA and family members who could come to your rescue. Make sure that you take note of your surroundings so that you can give people a good idea of your coordinates.

4. Carry an emergency kit

One of the most important things to make sure of when you're stranded on the side of the road is to remain visible to other cars. Always carry reflective triangles and flares so that other drivers can see you. If you don't have these tools with you, put on your emergency flashers.

5. Walk with caution

If you decide to walk to an exit to get help, proceed with caution. Especially at times of inclement weather, the predictability of other drivers is really low. Cars could slip and slide and you don't want to be in their trajectory.

6. Keep your phone charged

Don't travel without a charged phone. It's one thing if your phone has no cell service, but you'll be kicking yourself if you're stranded only because you neglected to charge your phone before your trip. Consider investing in a car phone charger so that you can always make sure that if there's a signal, you can get in touch with the resources that can help you get into a safer situation.

Taking a few minutes to prepare before your trip could save you stress, money and even your life. Carry an emergency kit, travel with a charged phone and act smart in the first moments of your car trouble, and you'll set yourself up to make the best of a bad situation and most importantly you'll stay safe.

Jill Wing is a full-time freelance writer living in New York. She recommends the site, www.roadsidediscovery.com for Roadside recovery comparison. Click here to compare services.