How to Handle a Breakdown: Emergency Tips for Drivers

Experiencing a car breakdown can be stressful and even dangerous, especially if it happens unexpectedly. Here is what you need to do when your vehicle breaks down.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first and most important step is to stay calm. Take a deep breath and focus on assessing what is happening.

• Pay attention to any warning lights, strange noises, or loss of power. These can provide clues about what went wrong.
• Take note of your surroundings, including traffic conditions, road hazards, and whether you are near an exit or a safe stopping point.

2. Pull Over Safely

If your car is still drivable, move it to the safest possible location.

• On Highways: Aim for the right shoulder, an exit ramp, or a nearby parking lot.
• In City Traffic: Try to reach a side street or a legal parking area.

If your vehicle will not move, turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers. If you are on a busy road and do not feel safe inside your car, exit from the passenger side and move to a secure location away from traffic.

3. Make Yourself Visible

Once you have stopped, ensure that other drivers can see you clearly to prevent accidents.

• Turn on hazard lights to indicate that your car is disabled.
• If you have reflective triangles or road flares, place them several feet behind your vehicle.
• Raise the hood of your car as a universal sign of distress.

If you have a reflective safety vest, wearing it can help you remain visible, especially in low-light conditions.

4. Identify the Problem (If It Is Safe to Do So)

Some breakdowns have obvious causes. A quick inspection might help determine if there is a simple fix.

• If you have a flat tire and know how to change it, you can replace it with a spare.
• If your engine is overheating, allow it to cool down before checking coolant levels. Never open the radiator cap when it is hot.
• If your battery is dead and you have jumper cables, a jump-start from another vehicle may help.
• If you have run out of gas, you will need to call for assistance or find a way to get fuel.

If you are unsure about the issue, it is best to wait for professional help rather than risk further damage.

5. Call for Help

Once you are in a safe place and have assessed the situation, it is time to seek assistance.

• If you have roadside assistance coverage through AAA, your insurance provider, or an auto dealership, call them for support.
• If you need a tow, contact a local towing service.
• Let a friend or family member know where you are, especially if you are stranded in an unfamiliar area.

6. Stay Safe While Waiting for Help

Even after calling for assistance, your safety remains a priority.

• Stay inside your vehicle if you are in a high-traffic area, keeping your seatbelt on.
• If someone offers to help, keep your doors locked and only accept assistance from professionals.
• Conserve your phone battery in case you need to make additional calls.

In winter conditions, run the heater in short intervals to stay warm while avoiding carbon monoxide buildup.

7. Be Prepared for Future Breakdowns

Having an emergency kit in your vehicle can make a breakdown much easier to handle. Keep these essential items on hand:

• Jumper cables
• Spare tire, jack, and tire iron
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Reflective triangles or road flares
• Blanket, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks
• Portable phone charger

Taking a few minutes to prepare now can prevent a stressful situation later.

Handle Breakdowns with Confidence

A car breakdown is never convenient, but knowing how to handle the situation can keep you safe and minimize the hassle. Remember to remain calm, move to a safe location, make yourself visible, call for help, and prepare for the future.

If you require fast and professional roadside assistance near Grand Rapids, MI, contact Mobile Auto Solutions today.