Vehicle Failure Runbook

Vehicle/Equipment Failure in Field is an emergency procedure for handling transportation breakdowns during field operations, assignments, or remote work.

Immediate Response Protocol

Step 1: Safety Assessment (First 2 minutes)

1. Move to safest available location
2. Activate hazard lights/emergency signals
3. Assess personal injuries - if serious, call 911 immediately
4. Secure scene to prevent secondary incidents

Step 2: Situation Documentation (5 minutes)

1. Take photos from all angles showing damage and scene
2. Record exact GPS coordinates and nearest landmarks
3. Note weather conditions, road surface, traffic conditions
4. Document any third parties involved with contact information

Step 3: Damage Evaluation (10 minutes)

Critical Assessment Questions:

• Can vehicle operate safely at reduced speed?
• Are lights, brakes, and steering functional?
• Is there fluid leakage or overheating?
• Are there obvious safety hazards (loose parts, exposed wires)?

Decision Tree:

• Minor damage + functional → Proceed with caution to safe location
• Major damage but driveable → Drive to nearest service location
• Not safe to operate → Call for towing, implement stranded protocol

Recovery Procedures

Insurance and Documentation

1. Contact insurance company using emergency claim line
2. Provide policy number, location, and basic incident description
3. Follow their specific claim filing procedures
4. Request towing authorization if needed

Alternative Transportation

1. Activate backup transportation plan (rideshare, rental, colleague pickup)
2. If in remote area, consider hiking to cell coverage or main road
3. Contact trusted local contacts who can provide emergency transport
4. Arrange secure storage for equipment that cannot be transported

Equipment Security

1. Remove all valuable/sensitive equipment from vehicle
2. Secure or lock remaining items if vehicle must be abandoned
3. Create inventory of items left behind for insurance/recovery
4. Photograph serial numbers and equipment before leaving

Work Continuity

If On Assignment

1. Contact editor/client immediately with situation update
2. Provide realistic timeline for story completion or alternative arrangements
3. Arrange file transfer if work must be handed off to another person
4. Document what work has been completed and what remains

Communication Plan

1. Notify emergency contacts of situation and current status
2. Update location with trusted contacts every 2-4 hours until resolved
3. Maintain communication about transportation and equipment status
4. Confirm safe arrival at final destination

Prevention and Preparation

Pre-Trip Planning

• Vehicle inspection and maintenance verification
• Emergency contact list with local towing/repair services
• Alternative route identification for key assignments
• Backup transportation options research

Field Kit Essentials

• Emergency contact cards with policy/account numbers
• Backup communication device (satellite communicator if remote)
• Basic repair tools appropriate for vehicle type
• Emergency cash for immediate needs

Follow-Up Actions

Documentation Requirements

• Complete insurance claim with all required documentation
• File any police reports if required by jurisdiction
• Maintain records of all expenses for potential reimbursement
• Document lessons learned and update procedures accordingly

System Updates

• Review and update emergency contact information
• Evaluate effectiveness of backup transportation plans
• Update insurance coverage if gaps were identified
• Refine equipment security and transportation procedures