Prepare for a breakdown before it happens
Save useful information and understand the difference between a rest stop and an emergency.
Prepare calmly
Keep the vehicle handbook and appropriate assistance details accessible. Know where warning controls are and plan proper rest stops. A service area or other designed parking place is normally a better planned stop than an emergency stopping area.
Think about location
If a problem develops, look for a place of relative safety where possible. A vehicle stopped near fast-moving traffic can still be struck. Do not stand between it and approaching vehicles, and do not enter traffic to retrieve objects or try a repair.
Get appropriate help
If you cannot leave a vehicle safely in a live motorway lane, keep restraints on, use hazards and call 999 for urgent help. Otherwise follow the relevant Highway Code and assistance instructions for the situation. This preparation guide is not a substitute for an emergency call handler’s directions.
Your checklist
- Know your warning controls
- Save assistance contact details
- Plan safe rest stops
- Keep people away from moving traffic
- Follow emergency instructions when needed
Further reference: Open the source guidance ↗. General information; check the requirements and instructions for your actual vehicle and circumstances.