If you have vehicle trouble and need to stop, what is the first step you should take?

When dealing with vehicle trouble, the first step you should take is to pull off the road and away from traffic. This action is crucial for ensuring both your safety and the safety of other drivers. When you pull off the road, you create a safe space to assess your vehicle's issues and avoid putting yourself in harm's way from oncoming traffic.

Once you are safely off the roadway, you can then activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers about your situation; however, this is a secondary step. Calling for roadside assistance becomes relevant after ensuring you are in a secure location. Stopping in the lane of traffic is dangerous and should always be avoided to prevent potential accidents. Thus, prioritizing safety by moving away from traffic is essential in such situations.