Handle a Broken Down Car on the UK Motorway Safely

Dealing with a car breakdown on the UK motorway can be a stressful experience, but it’s important to handle the situation safely. This guide will provide you with clear steps to follow in case your car breaks down and can still move slowly to the hard shoulder. By staying calm and knowing what to do, you can ensure everyone's safety.

Steps to Handle Your Car Break Down

First and foremost, if your car can still move and signal, begin by slowly pulling over onto the hard shoulder on the "slow" side of the road. Make sure to move as far to the right as possible, but do not risk getting stuck or causing traffic issues. If you are in a country where driving on the right is the norm—such as the UK—this is the recommended side. If you drive on the left, adjust accordingly.

Once your vehicle is stopped, switch on the hazard lights. This signal alerts other drivers that your car is not moving and is a safety measure. This is crucial, especially at night or during low visibility conditions.

If your car is equipped with a warning triangle, get the triangle out and place it a safe distance behind your car. This extra precaution can help other drivers to see your car and avoid accidents. Cautionary measures are crucial to avoid collisions from behind.

Ensuring Roadside Safety

It’s essential to ensure your own and others' safety when dealing with a car breakdown on the motorway. Do not stand behind, in front of, or between your vehicle and the barrier or traffic. Being in these positions can place you at significant risk of collision.

Once you have ensured the hazard lights are on and the warning triangle is in place, move to a safe location off the road. If possible, get as far off the hard surface as you can. This means climbing over the barrier if necessary, or finding a safe spot to stand.

If getting to a safe location is impossible, call for help immediately. Utilize the following contacts:

Your recovery service (e.g., AA/AA USA in the USA) Local police non-emergency number A friend who can assist, such as bringing a spare battery or providing fuel

Handling Calls for Help

If someone stops to offer assistance, make sure you both stay safe. Avoid standing or walking between two stopped vehicles if possible. Keep an eye out for any traffic that may run into you. It’s crucial to stay away from the traffic and remain in a safe location.

In the UK, if your car is on an emergency zone, get as far as you can to the left. Use your indicator to move to the emergency lane, and then exit through the passenger-side door. Make sure to have your phone with you in case of emergency.

Once your car is as far over to the left as you can get it, turn the hazard lights on. For motorways with hard shoulders, get across to the hard shoulder if possible. For those without a hard shoulder, refuge areas provide an alternative location to stop. Turn the hazard lights on and get everyone out of the car using the doors furthest from the traffic. Stand or sit behind the crash barrier for protection, especially in the dark when the verge may have hidden hazards.

Leave any pets in the car. Pets are generally safer inside the car, where they are less likely to slip or be hit by passing traffic. If you need to leave a pet, ensure they are securely restrained in a carrier or crate.

To get help, make a note of where you are on the motorway. The little posts at the side of the road will indicate the location of the nearest emergency phone. Use these posts to determine the correct direction to go to reach the nearest emergency phone, even if you have a mobile phone. Emergency phones on motorways connect directly to the right people instantly. If you do not have a mobile phone or if the emergency phone is out of reach, call National Highways on 0300 123 5000. Answer all the questions they ask you.

If you are on a smart motorway, the people monitoring CCTV may spot your car and take the necessary action to close the blocked lane. If you cannot get to the left or feel vulnerable, dial 999 and speak to the police operators.

Key Dos and Don'ts

Don't:

Stop to help others Attempt to make repairs yourself Place a warning triangle that could put you at risk

Do:

Stay calm and follow the steps outlined above Ensure your hazard lights are on and your car is in a safe position Move to a safe location off the road Call for help immediately

By following these guidelines, you can handle a car breakdown on the UK motorway safely and effectively, ensuring the safety of all.