What to Do During a Vehicle Breakdown on the Highway

Your car sputters, the dashboard lights flicker, and before you know it, you’re coasting to a stop on the side of a busy highway. It's every driver’s nightmare. A vehicle breakdown on the highway can be stressful and even dangerous if you don't know what steps to take. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to help you handle a highway breakdown calmly and safely while also making sure you get help as soon as possible. 

Don't panic, get to safety

First, you need to remain calm. Start by taking a deep breath, activate the hazard lights immediately, and try to steer away from the oncoming traffic or the nearest safe area.  If you can't make it to the shoulder, stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt on until help arrives. If you are in the middle lane or stuck in traffic, activate your hazards, keep your doors locked, and call for assistance. Getting out of your car in heavy traffic is extremely dangerous unless your vehicle is in immediate danger of being hit. 

Stay visible

Once you're safely on the shoulder, keep the hazard lights on. IIf you have safety triangles or flares, set them up about 10 feet behind your vehicle to alert oncoming drivers that your vehicle is disabled. The goal here is to avoid additional accidents while you wait for help. Stay inside your vehicle with your seat belt on, especially if you're on a busy highway, and avoid standing near traffic lanes. 

Assess your situation

Before calling for help, do a quick assessment of your situation. Aim to identify what caused the breakdown, whether it was a flat tire, overheating, or other issues. Ensure that you’re in a safe location, and identify whether you need emergency towing. If you have any passengers, see if any require special care while waiting for assistance.

Call for roadside assistance

If you’re unsure who to call, services like Sam's Roadside Assistance can dispatch help for a flat tire, dead battery, or towing, ensuring you’re not stranded for hours on the side of the road. Many roadside assistance services offer apps for quick requests, or you can call directly and provide your location using your smartphone’s GPS. 

Stay insider and stay safe

While waiting for help, keep your windows up and locked. If someone offers help, crack your window slightly to speak to them, but avoid exiting your vehicle if you feel unsafe. Keep your phone charged, and if it's low, consider turning on battery-saving mode while you wait for help.