By A car breakdown is one of those situations no driver ever wants to face—but it’s something every driver should be prepared for. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out on a road trip, or just running errands, a sudden breakdown can leave you feeling stranded and stressed. Knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major ordeal.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First and foremost, try not to panic. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers that you’re experiencing a problem. Take a deep breath and assess what’s happening—are there strange noises, smoke, or a loss of power? The more aware you are of the issue, the better equipped you’ll be to respond safely.
2. Get to a Safe Location
If your vehicle is still moving, try to steer it to the right shoulder of the road or a nearby parking lot. Avoid stopping on curves or hills where visibility is poor. If you’re on a highway, aim for an emergency turnout or breakdown lane if one is available. Pull as far off the road as safely possible to reduce the risk of being hit by passing traffic.
3. Turn On Your Hazard Lights
Keep your hazard lights flashing, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. This alerts other drivers that your vehicle is disabled and gives them time to slow down or move over. If it’s safe and you have them, place reflective triangles or flares behind your car to increase visibility.
4. Stay Inside the Vehicle if It’s Unsafe to Exit
In busy traffic areas or on highways, it’s often safer to remain inside your car with your seatbelt fastened. Only exit the vehicle if you’re certain it’s safe to do so—like on a quiet road or if you’ve managed to pull into a parking area.
5. Call for Help
Once you’re safe, call for roadside assistance. If you’re a member of an auto club or have roadside coverage through your insurance, contact their service line. If you don’t have access to a service, search for nearby towing companies to help move your vehicle to a repair shop or safe location.
When calling, be prepared to provide:
- Your exact location (check road signs or use a GPS app)
- A description of your vehicle and the issue
- Your contact information
- Whether you’re in immediate danger or safe
6. Don’t Attempt Major Repairs Yourself
While it might be tempting to pop the hood and troubleshoot, unless it’s a simple issue like a flat tire or dead battery, it’s best to leave more complex diagnostics and repairs to professionals. Working on your vehicle in traffic or poor lighting can be dangerous.
7. Inform Someone You Trust
Let a friend or family member know what’s happening, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar area or traveling alone. Share your location and your plan so someone knows where you are and can check in if needed.
8. Stay Alert While Waiting
While waiting for help, remain aware of your surroundings. Lock your doors if you’re staying in the vehicle, and avoid accepting help from strangers unless you’re absolutely certain it’s safe. Most towing professionals will be in clearly marked vehicles and uniforms—if you’re unsure, ask for identification.
Car breakdowns are never convenient, but with the right steps, you can handle them safely and efficiently. The key is preparation—know what to do, who to call, and how to stay calm.