What to do if your car breaks down on the motorway?
If your car breaks down on the motorway, it is important to act quickly and carefully to ensure your safety and that of other road users. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Stay calm and turn on your hazard lights
As soon as you realise that your car is in trouble, immediately turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers. This signals that you are in trouble and reduces the risk of an accident.
2. Park safely
Try to leave the lane of traffic as quickly as possible. Move to the hard shoulder, or if possible, exit the motorway at the first available rest area or exit. If you cannot leave the road, stay on the far right to minimise the danger.
3. Exit the vehicle (if safe)
If it is safe to do so, exit the vehicle on the right side (away from traffic) and move behind the safety barriers or as far away from traffic as possible. Never remain inside a vehicle that is stopped on the motorway unless the situation outside is too dangerous.
4. Place a warning triangle
If you have a warning triangle, place it far enough behind your car to warn other drivers. It is generally recommended that you place it about 100 metres behind your vehicle to give drivers enough time to react.
5. Call for help
Use your mobile phone to call for breakdown services or towing. If you are on a motorway, you can also use the emergency call points that are usually located at regular intervals. Some countries have specific emergency services for motorway breakdowns.
6. Stay out of the way of traffic
Wait for help to arrive by staying off the road and behind the safety barriers if possible. Avoid returning to your vehicle unless absolutely necessary.
7. Do not attempt to repair it yourself
It is strongly advised not to attempt to repair your vehicle on the motorway, especially in heavy traffic. Wait for a professional to arrive to deal with the problem safely.
Conclusion
Breaking down on the motorway can be a stressful situation, but by following these steps you will ensure your safety and that of others. Remember that the main danger comes from other vehicles, so put as much distance between yourself and the traffic as possible and wait for help to arrive.
