What to Do During a Car Breakdown: A Step-by-Step Guide

A car breakdown can happen at any time—whether you’re on the motorway, driving to work, or late at night on a quiet road. Knowing what to do when your car breaks down is essential for your safety and for getting back on the road quickly. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the most important breakdown safety tips and show you when to call roadside assistance or a trusted local car recovery service.

First, stay calm and turn on your hazard warning lights immediately. This alerts other drivers that your vehicle is stationary. If possible, pull your car to a safe location such as a hard shoulder, layby, or side street. Safety should always be your first priority during a breakdown.

Once safely stopped, step out of the vehicle from the passenger side (if on a busy road) and stand away from traffic. Always wear a high-visibility jacket if you have one, and place a warning triangle a few meters behind your car to increase visibility. Never attempt DIY repairs on the motorway; instead, wait for professional roadside recovery.

Next, call for help. If you have breakdown cover, contact your provider. Otherwise, you can search for car recovery near me or call a trusted local recovery service like RH Recovery. Local teams usually arrive faster and provide affordable roadside assistance, whether you need a jump start, flat tire change, fuel delivery, or full vehicle towing.

If you’re traveling with children or pets, keep them safe by moving them to a secure area away from traffic. Do not sit inside the car if it is on a busy road, as this can be dangerous. Always wait in a safe location until help arrives.

To summarize, the key steps are: switch on hazards, move to safety, wear high-visibility clothing, place a warning triangle, call roadside assistance or recovery, and stay calm until professional help arrives. Following these car breakdown tips ensures safety, reduces stress, and gets you back on the road as quickly as possible.

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