Breaking down not only wastes time and money but also poses a significant risk, with 250 people killed or seriously injured on the hard shoulder every year. Knowing how to handle a breakdown is vital for your safety and that of other road users. Here’s how to avoid breakdowns and stay safe if one occurs.
How to Avoid a Breakdown
- Most breakdowns can be avoided with proper vehicle maintenance
- Ensure your vehicle is regularly serviced, including checks on wipers, tyres, and fluid levels
- Report any issues immediately
- Make sure you're familiar with the meaning of your vehicle's warning lights
Be Prepared
- Always have a charged mobile phone (switched off and stored safely while driving)
- Keep essentials like high-visibility clothing, a torch, water, and a reflective triangle
General Breakdown Procedures
- Avoid stopping in dangerous locations like roundabouts or bends. Never park on pavements
- Activate hazard lights immediately
- If possible, drive at a reduced speed to a safer spot off the road or onto a straight section
- Place the warning triangle at least 45 metres behind your vehicle (not on motorways)
- Call a breakdown service and wait for professional help
- Turn off the engine and wait in a safe location, away from traffic
Motorway Breakdown Procedures
- Exit at the next available opportunity or pull into a service area
- If you must stop, pull over to the hard shoulder, turn the wheels left, and park as close to the left as possible
- Switch on hazard lights and sidelights if visibility is poor
- Don’t use your warning triangle on the hard shoulder
- Wait for assistance and do not attempt repairs on the roadside
Tyre Blowout
- Tyre blowouts can make steering difficult, particularly with a front tyre failure
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and slowly guide the vehicle to the left
- Reduce speed steadily and come to a stop on the hard shoulder or roadside
Calling for Help
- Use the nearest emergency phone on motorways, located via blue and white marker posts.
- If using a mobile, refer to the blue rectangular Driver Location Signs for the road number, travel direction, and location.
Waiting for Help
- Always leave the vehicle, ensuring everyone exits from the left-hand side.
- Walk off the road and, if possible, up an embankment or behind a crash barrier.
- Never attempt to cross lanes on a motorway.
By following these steps, you can stay safe and help ensure that your vehicle is recovered quickly in the event of a breakdown.
Disclaimer
This information has been gathered from sources including GOV.UK and RoSPA. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Quicktemp and its affiliates accept no liability for any errors or omissions.
