Stay Calm and Act Quickly

A car breakdown can happen to anyone, at any time — on a busy highway, a remote road, or in the middle of the night. Knowing exactly what to do in the first few minutes can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous situation.

Step 1: Get to Safety First

The moment you notice something is wrong — strange noises, warning lights, loss of power — your priority is to move the vehicle out of traffic safely.

  • Turn on your hazard lights immediately. Do this even before you pull over so other drivers are warned.
  • Gradually reduce speed and steer toward the shoulder, a lay-by, or a safe parking area.
  • Avoid braking sharply unless absolutely necessary, especially at high speeds.
  • If possible, get completely off the road — not just partially on the shoulder.

Step 2: Make Your Vehicle Visible

Once stopped, visibility is critical — especially at night or in poor weather conditions.

  • Keep your hazard lights on at all times.
  • Place warning triangles at least 45 metres behind your vehicle on highways, or as far back as is safe on other roads.
  • If you have a reflective vest, put it on before exiting the vehicle.
  • At night, a torch or phone flashlight makes you more visible to passing drivers.

Step 3: Assess the Situation

Before calling for help, take a moment to identify what might be wrong — but only if it is safe to do so.

  • Flat tyre? Check if you have a spare and the tools to change it.
  • Dead battery? Look for signs like no dashboard lights or a clicking sound when starting.
  • Overheating? Steam from the bonnet is a clear sign — do not open it immediately.
  • Empty fuel? A simple but common cause — check your gauge.

Step 4: Call for Roadside Assistance

If you cannot fix the problem yourself, contact a roadside assistance provider. When you call, be ready to provide:

  1. Your exact location (use GPS on your phone if unsure)
  2. Your vehicle make, model, and registration number
  3. A brief description of the problem
  4. Your membership or policy number if applicable

Step 5: Stay Safe While You Wait

While waiting for help to arrive, follow these important safety rules:

  • Stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on if you are on a fast road — being inside the car is often safer than standing outside.
  • On quieter roads, stand away from the traffic side behind a barrier if one is nearby.
  • Lock your doors if you feel unsafe, especially at night.
  • Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.

What to Keep in Your Emergency Car Kit

Being prepared in advance dramatically reduces the stress of a breakdown. Consider keeping the following in your boot:

  • Warning triangles or reflective flares
  • High-visibility vest
  • Jump leads or a portable battery pack
  • Torch with spare batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Spare tyre, jack, and wheel brace
  • Water and basic snacks
  • Phone charger / power bank

Final Thoughts

Breaking down is stressful, but it doesn't have to be dangerous. By staying calm, making yourself visible, and knowing who to call, you can handle almost any roadside situation safely. The best preparation is to have a roadside assistance plan in place before you ever need it.