Few experiences are more stressful than having your car break down while you’re driving. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine trouble, or an unexpected mechanical failure, being stranded can disrupt your day and put your safety at risk. However, knowing what to do in the moment can make the situation far less overwhelming.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when your car breaks down on the road to ensure your safety and get help quickly.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first thing to remember is to stay calm. A breakdown can be alarming, especially on a busy road or unfamiliar highway, but keeping a level head helps you make clear, safe decisions.
Quickly assess the issue if you can. Look for warning lights on the dashboard, listen for unusual sounds, or notice if you’ve lost power. This can help you describe the problem when seeking assistance.
2. Safely Pull Over
If the car is still moving, signal and slowly guide your vehicle to the right-hand shoulder or the nearest safe area, such as a rest stop or a wide shoulder. Avoid stopping on a curve or at the bottom of a hill where visibility is limited.
Once stopped:
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers
- Engage your emergency brake
- If it’s dark or visibility is low, use reflective triangles or road flares from your emergency kit
Your top priority is getting yourself and your passengers to a safe position away from traffic.
3. Stay Inside If It’s Not Safe to Exit
On highways or busy roads, it’s usually safer to stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on, especially if you’re near moving traffic. If you must exit—such as in the case of smoke, fire, or danger—do so carefully and move to a safe area away from the road.
4. Call for Assistance
Once you’re safe, contact the help you need. Depending on your situation, this might include:
- A towing company if the issue can’t be fixed roadside
- Roadside assistance services for minor issues like flat tires, dead batteries, or lockouts
- A family member or friend for support or transportation
- Emergency services if you’re in danger or unable to move the car safely
If you don’t already have roadside assistance coverage, many insurance providers, credit card companies, or mobile apps offer pay-per-use options.
5. Use a Towing Service If Necessary
Some breakdowns—like engine failure or transmission issues—require towing. Choose a reputable towing service to transport your car to a repair shop. If you’re unfamiliar with local options, your insurance or roadside assistance provider may recommend a trusted towing company to handle your vehicle safely.
Always verify the company and pricing before accepting the service.
6. Communicate Clearly with the Tow Truck Driver or Mechanic
When help arrives, explain the symptoms and any recent car behavior you noticed before the breakdown. If you’re having the vehicle taken to a repair shop, give accurate contact information and ask for an estimate on the diagnosis or repair time.
7. Prevent Future Breakdowns
Once your car is repaired, consider taking steps to reduce the chances of another unexpected breakdown:
- Keep up with regular maintenance (oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations)
- Replace worn-out parts as recommended
- Listen for unusual noises or changes in performance
- Pack an emergency kit that includes tools, jumper cables, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and water
Preparation and proactive care go a long way in avoiding repeat breakdowns.
Breaking down on the road can be frustrating and even scary, but knowing how to respond makes all the difference. Prioritize safety, signal for help, and work with reliable professionals to get back on the road. With a calm approach and the right steps, you can handle a car breakdown with confidence and minimize disruption to your day.