What to Do When Your Vehicle Breaks Down

If your vehicle breaks down, the following tips can help get you through this event safely:

    • Turn on your hazard lights.

 

    • Stay calm — it can be frustrating and scary when your vehicle breaks down — take a few moments to gather your composure.

 

    • Pull over to the side of the road, if possible.

 

    • If you are unable to exit a highway, pull over to the right side of the road. Move your vehicle as far away from oncoming traffic as possible.

 

    • Shut off your vehicle.

 

    • Exit the car on the non-traffic side and raise the hood to alert other drivers that your vehicle is inoperable.

 

    • Stand away from the car when calling roadside assistance. Do not stand in front of your vehicle — if your car is sideswiped, it could move forward and cause injury.

 

    • If you have a roadside emergency kit, carefully place flares or reflective triangles in safe locations around your car to alert oncoming vehicles — do not place them too close to your vehicle or flammable debris.

 

    • If you do not have a cell phone, and it is safe, walk to a nearby public place for help while keeping your eye on traffic and remaining alert. Do not cross a freeway or highway.

 

  • Do not try to repair your vehicle on the side of the road even if you have flares or reflective warning devices.