Have you been in a situation where your car breaks down at the side of the road? Why does it always happen at the worst possible moment?
The chances are you’re on your way to something time sensitive, important, or something that’s just supposed to be fun. Maybe you’re driving to work, or picking up the kids, or halfway through a relaxing weekend getaway… then the car breaks down.?
That moment of panic is something most drivers know all too well. But if you stay calm and know what to do, you’ll be far better placed to keep everyone safe and get the help you need.
So, with that in mind, here’s a practical guide to help you manage a breakdown without adding stress to an already tricky situation.
What to do if your car breaks down at the side of the road
1. Move to a safe spot
The most important thing is to get yourself and your passengers out of harm’s way. Being stationary on a road, especially a fast road, is a hazardous situation.
- Turn your hazard lights on straight away to alert other drivers.
- Pull over to the left-hand side of the road as far as you safely can.
- On a motorway or dual carriageway, use a hard shoulder or emergency refuge area if one is nearby.
- If you’re on a smaller road, look for a layby or a wide verge.
2. Keep everyone safe
Once you’re stopped, you’ll want to make sure everyone stays safe.
- Switch off the engine and keep your hazard lights on.
- Exit the vehicle using the left-hand doors, especially if you’re near fast-moving traffic.
- Keep well away from the road, behind a barrier if possible.
- Leave pets in the car with the windows slightly open for ventilation.
If you’re broken down on a motorway and it’s unsafe to exit the car, keep your seatbelt on and call for emergency help. Never sit in the car without your seatbelt securely fastened when you break down on a motorway.
3. Use a warning triangle if you’re on quieter roads
If you’re on a slower, quieter road and it’s safe to do so:
- Place a warning triangle about 45 metres (roughly 60 steps) behind your car.
- Never use a triangle on a motorway or dual carriageway. It’s much too dangerous.
The warning triangle gives other drivers extra notice that there’s a stationary vehicle up ahead and allows them to slow down or pass safely.
4. Call for help
Now is the time to call your breakdown service. Make sure you’ve got the number saved in your phone or written in your car’s handbook. If you don’t have this in your phone already, why not put it in right now!
It’s also worth checking your breakdown cover includes roadside assist. Breakdown cover that’s included with your insurance doesn’t necessarily cover roadside assist. This is something well worth finding out now so you’re not caught short in the rain in the middle of nowhere.
If you’re on a motorway and don’t have signal, look for the nearest emergency phone point. These are spaced regularly and connect you directly to National Highways.
5. Know when to call 999
If you’re in a dangerous position or have passengers with mobility issues, don’t hesitate to call 999. Safety comes first, especially if your car is stuck in a live lane or has broken down somewhere with limited visibility.
6. Prevent breakdowns with regular checks
While some breakdowns are unavoidable, many are caused by things that could have been spotted earlier.
Things like flat batteries, underinflated tyres, and worn brake pads are all common culprits.
Cars that are well maintained are much less likely to break down unexpectedly. It always pays to follow the motor maintenance basics such as:
- Check your oil, coolant, and screenwash once a month.
- Keep your tyres at the correct pressure and check tread regularly.
- Listen for strange noises or warning lights and don’t ignore them.
Better still, get your car serviced regularly by a trustworthy motor engineer.
VFR Motors can help you stay on the road
At VFR Motors, we know how stressful a breakdown can be. That’s why we help our customers keep on top of regular maintenance, spot problems early, and drive with confidence. If you’re worried about your car’s reliability or just want peace of mind before your next journey, we’re here to help.
Book your service or health check today and avoid that sinking feeling when your car breaks down at the side of the road. Call us on 0116 3190 118 or mobile 07850 881 911 to make an appointment. Alternatively, drop in for a chat at our friendly garage at on Shaftsbury Road, Leicester, LE3 0QN.
