What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

1. Get Away From Moving Traffic

If your vehicle is still moving, carefully steer toward the shoulder or another safe area away from active traffic. Turn on your hazard lights immediately so other drivers can see that you're having trouble.

2. Make Yourself Visible

Keep your hazard lights on. At night or during poor weather, visibility becomes even more important. Avoid standing between your vehicle and passing traffic.

3. Don't Attempt a Dangerous Roadside Repair

Changing a tire or inspecting your engine may normally be simple, but doing it next to fast-moving highway traffic can be dangerous. If the location isn't safe, wait for professional roadside assistance.

4. Know Your Location

Before calling for assistance, check your location using road signs, highway markers, nearby exits, landmarks, or your phone's map.

Providing an accurate location can significantly reduce the time it takes for help to find you.

5. Tell Dispatch What Happened

Explain whether you're dealing with a flat tire, dead battery, accident, lockout, fuel problem, or another mechanical issue.

Also provide your vehicle type and any information that could help determine what equipment is needed.

6. Wait Somewhere Safe

After requesting assistance, follow the dispatcher's safety instructions and remain somewhere protected from traffic whenever possible.

Need Roadside Assistance?

TowSwift 24/7 provides emergency towing and roadside assistance with local dispatch, clear arrival estimates, and help available around the clock.

Call (555) 123-4567 for assistance.