---
title: If You Break Down
---

# If You Break Down

## General Safety

- Brake gently and pull as far **left** as possible
- If control is affected:
  
    - Hold the steering wheel firmly
    - Avoid harsh braking
    - Steer gradually to the roadside
- Switch on your **hazard warning lights**
- Keep **sidelights on** if visibility is poor or it’s dark
- Wear **high-visibility clothing**
- Never stand **behind your vehicle**
- Use a **warning triangle** if safe and not on a motorway
- Keep children and animals well away from the road

If your vehicle is obstructing traffic, **contact the police.**  
If you cannot fix the problem, **call your breakdown service.**

**Do not:**

- Accept lifts from strangers
- Leave your vehicle for longer than necessary

## Drivers Travelling Alone

If you break down alone, especially in an isolated area, tell the operator when calling for help. Breakdown services often give **priority assistance** to solo drivers.

## Being Recovered

If your vehicle cannot be repaired on the spot, it will need to be recovered. Your options are:

1. **Recovery by your breakdown service** (recommended)
2. **Call a local garage** (often costly)
3. **Be towed by a friend** (only if both drivers are experienced — towing is risky)

Remember: if the engine isn’t running, **braking and steering will be affected**.

## Free Recovery at Roadworks

If you break down within **National Highways** roadworks, free recovery may be available when:

- There is **no hard shoulder or lay-by access**
- **Lane widths are reduced**
- **Emergency telephones** are temporarily closed

#### QUICK NAVIGATION

[ BACK TO CHAPTER ](https://www.drivedrivingschool.co.uk/driving-skills/breakdowns?hsLang=en-gb)