What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Highway breakdowns happen to millions of drivers every year, often catching people completely off guard. The difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous situation often comes down to how quickly you react and what steps you take in those critical first moments.

Immediate Safety Actions

The moment you notice trouble, start moving toward the shoulder immediately. Don't wait to see if the problem resolves itself. Signal early, reduce speed gradually, and get as far off the roadway as possible. If you can't reach the shoulder, aim for the widest available space away from traffic.

Once stopped, turn on your hazard lights immediately. This is your most important safety signal to other drivers. If it's dark or visibility is poor, keep your headlights on as well. Exit through the door farthest from traffic and move to a safe location away from both your vehicle and the roadway.

Getting Professional Help

Modern smartphones make calling for help easier, but knowing who to call saves valuable time. For emergency towing in Gilroy and surrounding areas, our 24/7 dispatch service provides rapid response with average arrival times under 30 minutes. Professional towing operators have specialized equipment and training to handle highway recoveries safely.

While waiting for help, stay visible but stay safe. If you have emergency triangles or flares, place them behind your vehicle at increasing distances - 100 feet, 200 feet, and 300 feet back. This gives approaching drivers more warning and reaction time. Never attempt repairs in active traffic lanes, even minor ones.

Highway breakdowns test everyone's patience, but staying calm and following proper safety procedures protects you and other drivers. Remember that professional help is always available, and taking a few extra minutes to ensure safety is always worth it.