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That time I pulled over for a smoking Cummins has my crew split down the middle
Last week, I saw a guy stranded with smoke pouring from his diesel pickup. Some guys in my shop say we SHOULD always stop and help, calling it part of the trade's code. They point out that a simple hose clamp fix saved a family's road trip once. Others argue it opens you up to blame if something else goes wrong later, like that time a quick advice session turned into a lawsuit threat. I'm torn because helping feels right, but the risk is REAL. What's your take on where to draw the line with off-duty assists?
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miapatel1mo ago
My dad always told me to carry a basic tool kit in my truck after he helped a stranded motorist near Flagstaff. Honestly, helping is usually the right call if you can do it safe and quick. Tbh, the trade code matters because we all know how it feels to be stuck. Ngl, the lawsuit stuff is real, so I just give advice and don't touch their car. For me, the line is when the job gets too big or the person makes me uneasy. Most times, a quick fix is worth it for the good karma.
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jake_ellis431mo ago
Seriously! The roadside eco-hazard matters too.
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nancyw691mo ago
Yeah, I used to just drive past those broken down cars thinking it wasn't my problem. But seeing @jake_ellis43 talk about the eco-hazard really hit me. I never thought about the oil or coolant leaking into the dirt and plants right off the road. Now I notice it every time and I can't unsee it. It flipped my whole view because it's not just about the person stuck, it's about the mess left for everyone else. That's why I'll at least call it in now, so maybe a tow gets there faster. Makes you wonder what other small things we ignore, doesn't it?
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