What to Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down: A Step-by-Step Guide

Breaking down on the road can be a stressful and dangerous experience, but knowing what to do can make a huge difference in ensuring your safety and getting help quickly. Whether you're dealing with engine trouble, a flat tire, or any other issue, following these steps can help you manage the situation calmly and efficiently.

1. Move to Safety

If you feel your vehicle breaking down or notice warning signs, your first priority should be to move to a safe location. If possible, pull over to the right side of the road, away from traffic. If you’re on a highway, aim for the shoulder or an exit. Avoid stopping in traffic lanes, as this puts you and other drivers in danger.

2. Turn on Your Hazard Lights

Once you’ve safely moved your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers that you’re experiencing an emergency. This is especially important at night or during bad weather when visibility is low. Keeping your hazard lights on helps prevent accidents by signaling to others that your vehicle is immobile.

3. Stay Inside the Vehicle

Unless you are in immediate danger, it’s best to stay inside your vehicle, especially if you’re on a busy highway or high-traffic road. Exiting your car puts you at risk of being struck by passing vehicles. Keep your seat-belt on, and if possible, move to the passenger side of the vehicle away from traffic.

4. Call for Help

Once you’re safe and have assessed the situation, call a towing service or roadside assistance for help. Be ready to provide your location (use landmarks or GPS coordinates if possible), a description of your vehicle, and details about the issue. If you’re unsure what’s wrong with your car, explain any warning signs or sounds you noticed before the breakdown. Many towing companies, like Airport Mobil Towing, offer 24/7 emergency services to assist you quickly and efficiently.

5. Use Emergency Signals

If you have emergency cones, flares, or reflective triangles, place them behind your vehicle to increase your visibility to other drivers. These should be set up at a safe distance behind your car to give approaching drivers time to see your disabled vehicle and react accordingly. If you don’t have these tools, using your hazard lights is still helpful.

6. Wait for Professional Help

Once you’ve called for help, remain calm and patient. Avoid accepting offers from strangers to tow your vehicle or perform repairs, as this can lead to further damage or unsafe situations. It’s best to wait for professional towing or roadside assistance to arrive, ensuring your car is handled correctly and that you are taken to a safe location.

7. Prepare for Future Breakdowns

To minimize the chances of experiencing another breakdown, be proactive about vehicle maintenance. Regularly check your tires, oil, and battery, and stay on top of scheduled services. Carrying an emergency kit with items like a spare tire, jumper cables, and a flashlight can also be useful in minor roadside situations.

By staying calm, acting quickly, and following these steps, you can handle a vehicle breakdown safely. Having a reliable towing service like Airport Mobil Towing on speed dial ensures that professional help is never too far away.