A breakdown on a motorway is dangerous because traffic moves at 100–120 km/h. These steps keep you safe and get the car moving again.
1. Get off the lane
As soon as you feel a problem, signal and move onto the hard shoulder on the left. If the car stops in a lane, switch on the hazard lights immediately.
2. Get everyone out – on the left side
Leave the car from the passenger side and stand behind the crash barrier, away from the traffic. Do not stand behind or in front of the car.
3. Call the Motorway Police on 130
The National Highways & Motorway Police helpline is 130. Tell them the motorway, the direction and the nearest kilometre marker or interchange.
4. Warn other drivers
If you have a warning triangle and it is safe, place it well behind the car. At night keep the hazard lights on.
5. Call for recovery
Share your live location with us on WhatsApp. We tow the car to the next interchange, a workshop, or carry it to your home city. See motorway recovery service.
Keep in the car
- Warning triangle and a reflective jacket
- Spare tyre, jack and wheel spanner that fit your car
- Phone charger and a power bank
- Water, especially on the M-5 and M-9 in summer
Need a car carrier, tow truck or recovery?