What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Picture this: you’re cruising down the highway, music playing, when suddenly your car stutters and grinds to a halt. A car breakdown on the highway can be stressful, but with the right steps, you can manage the situation effectively and safely. At ASAP Towing Surrey, we’re here to guide you on how to handle such emergencies, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

When your car starts to act up, the first rule is to stay calm. Panicking can cloud your judgement and make the situation worse. As soon as you notice something is wrong—whether it’s an unusual sound, a warning light, or a loss of power—begin preparing to pull over safely.

2. Pull Over to a Safe Spot

The safety of you and your passengers is paramount. If possible, steer your car to the shoulder of the road, away from traffic. Ideally, find a wide, well-lit area to stop, such as a lay by or the far side of the shoulder. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers of your situation.

If your car breaks down in the middle of the road and you can’t move it, stay inside the vehicle with your seat belt on until help arrives.

3. Use Emergency Tools to Stay Visible

Visibility is crucial when you’re stranded on a highway. Alongside hazard lights, use warning triangles or cones if you have them in your car. Place these about 50–100 metres behind your vehicle to give oncoming traffic ample warning. This precaution can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

4. Call for Professional Assistance

When you’ve secured your car and assessed the situation, it’s time to call for help. This is where ASAP Towing Surrey comes in. Our reliable and prompt towing services are tailored to handle such emergencies on highways. Whether you need a flatbed tow, roadside assistance, or even minor repairs, our experienced team is just a phone call away.

5. Stay Safe While Waiting for Assistance

While waiting for help to arrive, your safety remains the top priority. Avoid standing near your car, especially on busy highways. If it’s safe, wait behind the guardrail or in a secure area off the road. In adverse weather conditions, such as rain or snow, stay in your car to avoid exposure to the elements.

6. Don’t Attempt Major Repairs Yourself

While it may be tempting to fix a flat tyre or check the engine, it’s best to leave these tasks to professionals. Attempting major repairs on the highway can be dangerous, given the high-speed traffic and limited space. Our team at ASAP Towing Surrey is equipped with the tools and expertise to handle such issues efficiently and safely.

7. Be Prepared for Such Emergencies

One of the best ways to handle a highway breakdown is to be prepared for it beforehand. Here are some essentials to keep in your car for emergencies:

  • A fully charged phone and car charger
  • Hazard triangles and reflective vests
  • A torch with spare batteries
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Jump leads and a tyre repair kit
  • Water and non-perishable snacks

Having these items ready can make the situation less daunting while you wait for help to arrive.

Why Choose ASAP Towing Surrey?

When your car breaks down on the highway, you need a towing service that’s reliable, fast, and professional. At ASAP Towing Surrey, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch services across Surrey and surrounding areas. Here’s why we’re the best choice:

  • Rapid Response Times: We understand the urgency of highway breakdowns and ensure a quick response to your call.
  • 24/7 Availability: Car troubles don’t follow a schedule, and neither do we. Our team is ready to assist you any time of the day or night.
  • Expert Team: Our trained professionals can handle all types of vehicles, from small cars to large trucks.
  • Affordable Rates: We believe in providing exceptional service without breaking the bank.

Whether it’s towing, roadside assistance, or vehicle recovery, we’ve got you covered.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Breakdowns

While breakdowns can’t always be avoided, regular car maintenance can reduce the likelihood of such events. Here are a few preventive tips:

  • Regular Servicing: Follow your car manufacturer’s servicing schedule to keep your vehicle in top condition.
  • Check Fluids: Monitor levels of engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid to avoid overheating or mechanical failure.
  • Inspect Tyres: Ensure your tyres are in good condition and inflated to the recommended pressure.
  • Pay Attention to Warning Lights: Don’t ignore dashboard warning lights. They often indicate potential issues that need immediate attention.

Final Thoughts

Breaking down on the highway can be a daunting experience, but with a clear plan and professional assistance from ASAP Towing Surrey, you can handle the situation with confidence. Remember, safety is always the priority. Pull over safely, stay visible, and call for reliable help.

Save our contact information now so that if the unexpected happens, you’ll have the peace of mind that expert help is just a call away.

ASAP Towing Surrey – Your trusted partner in highway emergencies.