BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – As temperatures climb across the region, AAA is reminding drivers that extreme heat doesn’t just impact comfort—it can create dangerous conditions on the road for both motorists and roadside technicians.
High heat is one of the leading causes of vehicle breakdowns during the summer months. AAA’s Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) teams are responding to increased calls for dead batteries, engine trouble, and overheated vehicles. At the same time, roadside technicians face elevated risks working outdoors in extreme conditions.
“Extreme heat can be just as dangerous as winter weather when it comes to driving,” said Lori Weaver Hawkins, public and government affairs manager, AAA Club Alliance. “While our roadside technicians are trained and prepared to respond, we’re urging drivers to take precautions—for their own safety and for the safety of those working on the roadside.”
AAA Taking Steps to Protect Roadside Technicians
AAA is implementing a number of measures to help keep ERS responders safe during periods of extreme heat, including:
- Enhanced safety protocols to reduce time spent exposed to high temperatures along roadways
- Hydration and cooling measures, ensuring technicians have access to water, shaded breaks, and cooling equipment
- Adjusted response practices, when possible, to minimize prolonged exposure during peak heat hours
- Continued emphasis on Move Over laws, reminding drivers to slow down and move over when approaching roadside workers to allow them to work as quickly and efficiently as possible while out in the heat
What Drivers Can Do to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat
AAA roadside rescue crews answered 27 million calls nationwide last year. Historically, battery issues have made up about 25% of all calls. In West Virginia alone, AAA Club Alliance received nearly 4,800 calls for roadside assistance during the summer months (June, July and August) in 2025. AAA encourages drivers to take simple steps to avoid breakdowns and stay safe during a heat wave:
Before you go
- Check your battery. Heat can shorten battery life and increase failure rates. Batteries usually last 3 to 5 years and should be checked regularly after the 3-year mark. AAA data shows heat – not cold – is the leading cause of battery failure.
- Inspect coolant levels, cooling system components and engine fluids to prevent overheating.
- Check tire pressure, as heat can increase pressure and lead to blowouts.
- Pack an emergency kit, including extra water, snacks, for everyone in the car including pets, and a charged phone.
On the road
- Watch for warning signs like rising temperature gauge levels or unusual smells.
- Be sure to keep your tires at normal pressure and pay attention to low tire pressure warnings. Soft tires generate heat, which can lead to a blowout.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short time.
- If your vehicle breaks down:
- Pull as far off the road as possible.
- Stay inside the vehicle if it’s safe to do so and keep your seatbelts buckled.
- Call for help and wait in the shade if you must exit. If possible, get behind a guardrail or other barrier until help can arrive.
- Immediately turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
- Open your car’s hood to clearly signal to passing motorists and law enforcement that you are experiencing mechanical trouble.
- If you can do so safely, place warning triangles, flares or markers behind your vehicle.
Slow Down, Move Over, Save Lives
With more roadside incidents expected during extreme heat, AAA is also reminding drivers to follow West Virginia’s Move Over law:
- Slow down and move over for any flashing lights on the side of the road.
- If unable to move over due to heavy traffic, reduce speed significantly.
“This is about protecting everyone on the road,” said Weaver Hawkins. “A simple action—slowing down and moving over—can help prevent serious injuries or worse.”
