If your vehicle catches fire while driving, what should you do?

When a vehicle catches fire while driving, the safest and most appropriate response is to pull over immediately and evacuate the vehicle. This action is crucial because a fire can escalate quickly, posing a serious risk to the driver and any passengers. By pulling over, you create distance between yourself and the potential danger of the fire.

Once you've stopped the vehicle, evacuating ensures that you and any passengers are out of harm’s way, as staying in a vehicle with an active fire risks serious injury or fatality. Additionally, moving away from the vehicle reduces the risk of being affected by smoke inhalation or the vehicle exploding.

The other options present significant dangers. Continuing to drive to a gas station or any location may exacerbate the situation, as it delays evacuation and increases the risk of a fire spreading. Calling for help while driving could distract you from taking immediate action, and turning on hazard lights while continuing to drive does not address the imminent risk posed by the fire itself. It is critical to prioritize safety over all else in such emergency situations.