OKLAHOMA CITY – July 1, 2026 – 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, overheated vehicles and flat tires. 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 Shawn Steward, Public and Government Affairs Manager for AAA Club Alliance in Oklahoma. “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 variety of measures to help keep ERS responders safe during periods of extreme heat, including:
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Enhanced safety protocols to reduce time spent exposed to high temperatures along roadways
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Hydration and cooling measures, ensuring technicians have access to water, shaded breaks, and cooling equipment
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Adjusted response practices, when possible, to minimize prolonged exposure during peak heat hours
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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 30 million calls nationwide last year. Last summer (June, July, August), AAA roadside service crews came to the rescue of nearly 70,000 drivers in Oklahoma, with about 16% of those calls for battery issues.
AAA encourages drivers to take simple steps to avoid breakdowns and stay safe during a heat wave:
Before you go
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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.
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Inspect coolant levels, cooling system components and engine fluids to prevent overheating.
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Check tire pressure. Be Sure to keep your tires at recommended pressure and pay attention to low tire pressure warnings. Underinflated tires create drag and generate more heat, which can lead to a blowout. Overinflated tires are also at greater risk for a blowout in extreme heat.
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Pack an emergency kit, including extra water, snacks, for everyone in the car including pets, and a charged cell phone to quickly call for assistance.
On the road
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Watch for warning signs like rising temperature gauge levels or unusual smells.
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Never leave children, seniors, or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short time.
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If your vehicle breaks down:
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Immediately turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
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Pull as far off the road as possible.
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If you can keep the vehicle cool, stay inside if it’s safe to do so and keep your seatbelts buckled.
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Call for help and wait in the shade if you must exit the vehicle. If possible, get behind a guardrail or other barrier until help can arrive.
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Open your car’s hood to clearly signal to passing motorists and law enforcement that you are experiencing mechanical trouble.
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If safe to do so, place warning triangles, flares, or markers behind your vehicle.
Slow Down, Move Over, Save Lives
With more roadside incidents expected during extreme heat, and with more traffic on the roads for the holiday, AAA is reminding drivers to help protect those on the side of the road:
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Slow down and move over for any flashing lights on the side of the road.
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If you are unable to move over due to heavy traffic, reduce speed significantly.
“This is about protecting everyone on the road,” said AAA’s Steward. “A simple action—slowing down and moving over—can help prevent serious injuries or worse.”
About AAA
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 65.2 million members nationwide and more than 450,000 members in Oklahoma. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, membership corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, find local gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit www.AAA.com.
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