Do you know what to do if you break down on the motorway? Hopefully, this will be something that you never experience, but it is important that you know what to do to ensure safety and get the assistance you need. This is particularly important if you have kids in the back, as you will not want to frighten them. Keep reading for all you need to know.
Be Prepared
Breakdowns are few and far between, but they can occur (and often at the worst moment!). This is why preparation is key, so you need to have a few key items that will be useful if you break down. This includes:
- High-vis jacket
- Safety cones
- Torch
- First-aid kit
- Phone charger
- Blankets
- Snacks and water
Additionally, you should always consider the right multi-car insurance policy to ensure that you have protection no matter which family car you are driving.
Turn Hazards On
If you experience an issue on the motorway, you need to turn your hazards on to alert other motorists that you have a problem. If you are driving at night or when it is foggy, you should also keep your side lights on for extra protection.
Get Off the Motorway
Generally, vehicles do not stop completely when breaking down, so you will hopefully be able to get off the road to safety. You want to move to the left of the motorway, whether this is taking a junction if you are nearby or on the hard shoulder. Once on the hard shoulder, make sure that you get your car far over the left but with enough space for passengers to exit on the left-hand side.
Leave the Car
Now, you can safely exit the car using the lefthand side doors. Be sure to leave your hazard lights on, give everyone a high-vis jacket, and stand behind the safety barrier. It is wise to move up the bank to get as far away from the motorway as possible and avoid going back to the car in case of a collision.
Call for Help
Next, you will need to call for help. If you have managed to make it to safety, you should call your breakdown cover for assistance. If you are unable to get off the carriageway, you need to call 999 as soon as possible.
Breaking down on the motorway can be stressful and scary, particularly if you have your kids in the back. Hopefully, this will not be a situation you find yourself in, but it is vital that you know what to do so that you can get to safety, allow for the continued flow of traffic, and get the assistance needed to get back on the road. This post should tell you all you need to know to handle this situation with confidence.