How to Stay Safe During a Vehicle Breakdown

A vehicle breakdown can be an unsettling experience, but staying calm and prioritising safety is vital. Whether you’re on a busy motorway or a quiet country road, knowing how to react can protect you and your passengers. This guide outlines essential steps to stay safe while waiting for help from a breakdown recovery service.

1. Move to a Safe Spot

If your vehicle shows signs of trouble, aim to pull over as safely as possible:

• On a motorway: Use the hard shoulder or pull into an emergency refuge area if one is available.
• On other roads: Pull your vehicle as far off the road as possible, away from moving traffic.
• Signal to others: Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.

Avoid stopping in a live lane. If you cannot move your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and hazard lights on.

2. Ensure You Are Visible

Making your vehicle visible to other road users reduces the risk of further incidents

• Keep your hazard lights on at all times.
• Use a reflective warning triangle, placing it at least 45 metres behind your vehicle if it is safe.
• If you have a high-visibility jacket, wear it to make yourself more noticeable, especially in low-light conditions.

Do not stand on the road or near moving traffic while setting up visibility aids.

3. Exit the Vehicle Safely

Leaving your vehicle requires caution, especially on fast-moving roads:

• Exit via the passenger-side doors to avoid oncoming traffic.
• Ensure all passengers, including children and pets, exit safely and move away from the vehicle.
• Stand in a secure location, such as behind a barrier or on a grass verge, well away from the carriageway.

If it’s not safe to exit, remain in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened and call for help.

4. Contact a Breakdown Recovery Service

Once you’re in a safe place, call a trusted vehicle breakdown recovery provider. Be prepared to share:

• Your precise location, using road signs, landmarks, or mobile GPS if available.
• Details about your vehicle, such as make, model, and registration number.
• A description of the issue you’re experiencing.

Avoid attempting repairs yourself unless you’re in a completely safe environment and confident in your abilities.

5. Stay Calm and Alert While You Wait

Keeping calm allows you to focus and stay safe while waiting for the vehicle breakdown recovery service:

• Stay vigilant of your surroundings, especially if standing near a road.
• Do not accept help from strangers unless necessary.
• Keep all passengers close by and ensure they remain safe.

6. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Preparing for breakdowns can reduce stress and improve safety. Follow these tips:

• Carry an emergency kit in your car, including items like a warning triangle, torch, and first aid supplies.
• Regularly service your vehicle to minimise the risk of breakdowns.
• Save the contact information of a reliable breakdown recovery service, such as Recovery Northampton, for quick assistance when needed.

Handling a vehicle breakdown safely is essential. You can minimise risks by pulling over, staying visible, and contacting a trusted car breakdown recovery service. Being prepared and staying calm ensures the situation is managed efficiently.

At Recovery Northampton, we pride ourselves on providing fast, professional, and reliable vehicle recovery services in Northampton and surrounding areas. Whether you’re stranded on a motorway or in a remote area, our experienced team ensures your safety is our top priority. We’re dedicated to getting you and your vehicle to a secure location quickly and efficiently. Trust Recovery Northampton for peace of mind during a stressful breakdown.

Check our new GBP update on how to stay safe while waiting for a breakdown recovery service.