We’ve all been there. You’re driving on mud or snow, and suddenly your wheels are spinning and you’re going nowhere. If you’ve ever gotten really stuck before, then you know how embarrassing and frustrating it is. Where’s a crane when you need one?

We recently asked our Facebook followers to share stories about getting their cars stuck and how they got out. Here are five of their stories.

1. Deep in a Rut

I've been stuck in deep snow a couple of times. The more I tried to work my way out, the deeper I dug myself into a rut! Had to get help to get moving again! - JE

2. Mud Pit Trouble

I managed to get my truck suspended in a mud pit on its frame gas tank and drive shaft. All four tires were sitting in nothing but water. Wasn't the best of days, but a buddy of mine yanked me out by the chain on my bull bar. It was definitely a great time even though I caused a bit of damage to my truck. - ZW

3. Close Call

I took my wife onto a frozen lake that had a plowed road and wanted to see how well the four wheel drive worked. I went off the plowed area into the deep snow. I was doing fine, until I saw another truck like mine. I drove by them, and sure enough they were stuck! I started to get stuck myself, but thankfully I had enough momentum to get back to the plowed part. - BA

4. Nearly Stranded

My husband and I went skiing with a group of friends soon after our first child was born. One night, the group and I went out and managed to get our vehicle stuck in snow. Due to weather, AAA predicted a day wait, which would keep us from our child an extra day. So I convinced my husband to come out the next day, and the two of us got the car out. - JBT

5. Murphy's Law at Work

The first winter after I got my driver's license, I went to a remote parking lot by a lake to slide my car around in circles. Murphy's Law was at work, and I slid into a snowbank and got completely stuck. There were no cell phones in those days, so I had to walk to someone’s house and use their phone to call home. My Dad and brothers got the car unstuck, but I was not allowed to drive for two months. - RH

The next time you get stuck, remember these key tips:

• Stay calm and don’t panic. This can be difficult to do if you’re lost, running late, or you’ve got hungry kids in the car, but do your best.
• Don’t spin your tires. That will only make it worse.
• Try rocking your car. Put it in the lowest gear, backup slowly, then pull forward slowly. Going back and forth will help you gain traction.
• Keep your wheels straight or you’ll dig deeper in.

Hopefully with these tips you’ll be able to get unstuck and carry on with your day!

Image Credit: Zach Weyland
– Thanks, Zach, for sharing such a great photo on the Poquet Auto Facebook page!