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

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