Why do people whose cars have broken down on the highway have a white shirt hanging from the window?

Question

Why do people whose cars have broken down on the highway have a white shirt hanging from the window?

Answer 1

Anything white, such as a towel, shirt, sock, etc is not really to signal others for help but to let authorities know that the vehicle has only been temporarily abandoned.  These authorities include: highway assistance, DMV or DOT officers, highway patrol, state police and other policing agencies.  Private citizens or any organization looking to take advantage of salvage laws present in some states are may also be prevented from claiming these vehicles but only for so long.

A vehicle without a white marker will eventually be treated like a permanently abandoned vehicle and is considered a road hazard.  They will be marked by an appropriate authority (typically highway patrol, DMV officer, or highway assistance) and eventually towed away.  However, if not removed in time for whatever reasons citizens can apply to claim an abandoned vehicle (in some states, I know North Carolina has a salvage law).

Answer 2

it is to show you that they are not in the car. And is to get your attention

ie if there in the car you should move over if they are stupid enough to open there door and you haven't moved over you could a very bad accadent

alawys move over when safe to do so for any disabled vechical or emergency vechicals

goodluck

Answer 3

Well, if you're stranded, you might as well get your laundry done. It's ust a signal that the car has broken down and needs help. Kind of lame if you ask me. That's what cell phones and the auto club is for.  

Answer 4

maybe so your car doesnt get hot  

Answer 5

To signal help and also make the car more visible.