The horrifying reality of what happens to drivers who break down on the road in America’s Death Valley

The American Southwest is home to hundreds of miles of roads, dirt tracks, and unmarked off-road trails that take you through a part of the world considered the hottest place on Earth in the summer.

This is, of course, Death Valley, a 3,000-square-mile stretch of desert named for a group of men who made their way to California in the winter of 1849–50. They feared the place was so inhospitable to humans that they might die there.

Ultimately, only one person from their group died, but the fearsome name and reputation of the place remained.

Temperatures in Death Valley can reach unhealthy levels for people in the area, yet it is a popular road trip destination for those seeking new adventures.

Sure, with new technology and travel methods you should be fine as long as you prepare properly, but what happens if your car breaks down and you’re stranded in the middle of the desert?

How to Prepare for Death Valley

Tourists who venture into Death Valley are asked to bring maps in case their GPS fails, check that the air conditioning is working, and check the weather conditions before heading out into the wilderness.

The National Park Service (NPS) warns: “Things can go wrong quickly in the backcountry. Planning ahead can save your life.

“Bring basic tools, a shovel, extra water, and food. Fill up your gas tank before you start your journey.”

This all seems like common sense advice that anyone could come up with, but you’d be surprised how often people make simple mistakes.

Forest rangers say flat tires are the most common problem drivers encounter during their expeditions, citing difficult road conditions and tires that are not suitable for the terrain.

The NPS advises: “Make sure your vehicle is equipped with ‘off-road’ tires, not on-road or street tires. Carry at least one inflated spare tire (preferably two), a can of tire repair fluid or tire repair kit, a 12-volt air compressor, a tire wrench, and make sure all jack parts are handy. Learn how to use your equipment before you hit the road.”

However, if a tire becomes damaged or the vehicle breaks down, it is recommended that you remain in the vehicle.

As we all know, Coolio was the only man who could walk through the valley of the shadow of death and come out unscathed.

What to do in case of a breakdown

The first thing you need to do is follow the main tips Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxynamely, “don’t panic.”

The NPS website explains what you should do, whether you prefer to stay in your vehicle or walk back to civilization.

They say: “On major roads, another traveler should arrive before you can get help. Leave your car hood open and/or mark the road with a large X visible to aircraft.

“If you decide to go out, stay on main roads – don’t cross country. If it’s hot, only go out if you can take enough water, and wait until sunset. Leave a dated note with your vehicle describing your plan.

“In an emergency, call 911, but remember that there is no cell phone coverage in most areas of the park. Towing fees are high, and AAA often does not cover towing on dirt roads.”

Cars can also simply overheat when exposed to strong sunlight. Accidents are also a common occurrence.

“More people die in single-car accidents than in any other circumstances,” park rangers say.

“To avoid an accident, obey speed limits, shift to a lower gear on steep descents and wear your seat belt.”

The truth is that if you crash, you’ll be stranded in the desert with little chance of getting help, it’s too dangerous to walk, and you could die from heatstroke or exposure.

Between 2010 and 2020, 41 people died in Death Valley, including seven from weather-related health issues, 14 from car accidents, four from falls and one from drowning.

Additional words and especially that one excellent Coolio reference by Olivia Burke.