- Published 24/05/2023
What To Do If You Break Down On The Motorway
Breaking down on a motorway can be a scary and potentially dangerous experience. It is essential to know what to do in such a situation to ensure your safety and that of others on the road. Here are some important things to keep in mind if your car breaks down on a motorway.
DO's
Pull over to the hard shoulder:
If your car breaks down on a motorway, try to get to the hard shoulder as soon as possible. This will give you a safe place to get everyone out of the car. Use your indicators to signal your intention to pull over.Turn on Your hazard lights:
Once you have stopped on the hard shoulder, turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers that your car is stationary. This will make it easier for them to see you and avoid hitting you.Exit the vehicle safely:
When it's safe to do so, exit your vehicle from the passenger side and stand behind the safety barrier. If you have passengers, make sure they also get out on the passenger side.Call for help:
Once you are safely off the road, call for help. You can use your mobile phone to call a breakdown service or emergency services if you need urgent help.Stay visible:
If you carry a high-visibility jacket, put it on so that you can be seen clearly by other drivers. If possible, deploy a reflective triangle if you can do so without risk.DON'Ts
Don't stay in your car:
It's important to get out of your car as soon as possible and move to a safe location. If you stay in your car, you risk being hit by other vehicles.Don't try to fix the car yourself:
Unless you are a trained mechanic, it's best to leave any repairs to the professionals. Attempting to fix your car on the motorway is dangerous and could make the situation worse.Don't cross the motorway:
Never attempt to cross the motorway to get to the other side. This is extremely dangerous and could result in a serious accident.SAFETY ASPECTS
Keep Your Seatbelt on until your car stops:
Always wear a seatbelt when driving on the motorway. If you break down, keep your seatbelt on until you have stopped on the hard shoulder.Check your car regularly:
Regularly checking your car can help you spot any potential problems before they become serious. Make sure your car is in good working order before setting off on a long journey.Carry essential items:
It's a good idea to carry a high-visibility jacket, reflective triangle, and a charged mobile phone with you when driving on the motorway. These items can help keep you safe in the event of a breakdown.Be aware of your surroundings:
When driving on the motorway, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for other vehicles and be prepared to react quickly if necessary.Breaking down on a motorway can be a stressful experience, but knowing what to do can help keep you and other road users safe. Remember to pull over to the hard shoulder, turn on your hazard lights, exit the vehicle safely, call for help, and stay visible. And above all, prioritise safety in every step of the way.
