When your car suddenly stops working on the highway, it’s not just stressful.
It can also be dangerous if you don’t know what to do next.
All drivers, especially those with no roadside assistance plan can benefit from this information.
You’ll learn what steps to take, how to stay safe, and how to prevent future breakdowns.
Follow this advice to keep yourself and your passengers safe until help arrives.
Signs That a Breakdown Is Coming
Sometimes, your car gives you clues before it stops working.
Knowing these signs can help you act early and avoid bigger problems.
Watch out for:
- Warning lights on your dashboard
- Strange sounds like knocking or squealing
- Smoke or steam coming from the hood
- Loss of power or jerking motions while driving
- Trouble steering or braking
If any of these happen, don’t ignore them.
Move to safety as soon as possible.
Step One: Stay Calm and Pull Over
The first thing you need to do is keep calm.
Panicking makes it harder to think clearly.
As soon as you notice something wrong, turn on your hazard lights.
These flashing lights warn other drivers that your vehicle is in trouble.
Then, slowly move to the right side of the road.
Try to stop on a flat surface and far away from fast-moving traffic.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
Once you’ve stopped, pull the handbrake to keep the car from moving.
If you have reflective triangles or warning flares, place them behind your car.
This helps oncoming drivers see you better, especially at night or in bad weather.
Step Two: Stay Safe Inside (Or Exit with Care)
In most situations, it’s safer to stay inside your car.
Keep your seatbelt on and your doors locked.
Only get out of the vehicle if there is smoke, fire, or if you feel unsafe inside.
If you need to exit, always use the door away from traffic.
Look around first and wait for a break in traffic before stepping out.
Stay far from the road, especially if cars are speeding by.
Never accept a ride from a stranger.
It’s safer to wait for help from a known source or official personnel.
Step Three: Call for Help
Now that you’re safe, it’s time to ask for help.
If you have a roadside assistance plan, call them first.
If not, reach out to a local towing company or the highway patrol.
When calling, be clear about your location.
Use nearby signs, exits, or landmarks to explain where you are.
Save these numbers on your phone in advance:
- Insurance hotline
- Local towing company
- Trusted mechanic
- Emergency hotline
If your phone is low on battery, use it wisely.
Avoid streaming or browsing while waiting for help.
Step Four: Wait and Monitor
While waiting, stay alert.
Keep an eye on your mirrors and surroundings.
Do not try to fix the car if you are not trained to do so.
The highway is not the right place to do repairs.
Instead, focus on staying safe and being ready to speak with the mechanic or officer when they arrive.
Let them know what happened and point out anything unusual, like smells, sounds, or warning lights.
Common Reasons Why Vehicles Break Down
Understanding why cars break down can help you prevent it.
Here are the most common reasons:
1. Dead Battery
Often caused by age, weather, or leaving lights on overnight.
2. Flat Tires
Can result from sharp objects or worn-out treads.
3. Overheating Engine
Usually due to low coolant or a broken fan.
4. Fuel Problems
Running out of fuel or using the wrong one by mistake.
5. Electrical Issues
Includes faulty wires, fuses, or alternators.
6. Clutch or Gear Failures
More common in manual cars with worn-out parts.
7. Starter Motor Trouble
If your car doesn’t start, it might be the starter motor.
8. Ignition System Failures
Bad spark plugs or wires may cause your engine to misfire or not start at all.
9. Lost Keys or Key Fob Issues
If your key system fails, you might not be able to start or open the car.
These problems may sound technical, but many can be prevented with regular checks.
READ ALSO: List of Common Road Emergencies and How to Handle Them
How to Prevent Breakdowns
Prevention is always better than dealing with an emergency.
Here are simple ways to protect your vehicle and yourself:
Get Regular Maintenance
Have your car checked by a trusted mechanic every few months.
Focus on the battery, tires, oil, coolant, brakes, and lights.
Listen to Your Car
Unusual sounds, smells, or flashing lights are all signs.
Don’t ignore them.
Keep an Emergency Kit
Your car should always have:
- Water
- Snacks
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Reflectors or triangles
- Basic tools
Top Up Before Long Trips
Always check your fuel and oil before going on a long drive.
Make sure your tires have the right pressure too.
Consider Roadside Coverage
If you drive often or travel far, roadside assistance gives peace of mind.
Some insurance plans include it at no extra charge.
After the Breakdown
Once your car has been towed or repaired, it’s time to reflect.
Ask the mechanic for a clear explanation of what went wrong.
Keep the report and receipts for your records or for insurance claims.
If the same issue happens again, don’t wait to get it checked.
Recurring problems may point to something more serious.
Also, update your emergency kit if you used anything.
Charge your power bank or buy a spare phone charger for the car.
Lastly, share your experience with your family or barkada.
Knowing what happened to you can help them prepare for emergencies too.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if I don’t have roadside assistance?
You can call a local towing service or ask the highway patrol for help.
Search online using nearby landmarks to find contacts.
2. Is it safe to accept help from passing drivers?
It’s safer to wait for official assistance or someone you know.
If you must accept help, stay alert and cautious.
3. What if I have kids or seniors with me?
Keep them calm and inside the car unless it’s unsafe.
Offer water or snacks while you wait.
4. Can I fix the problem myself on the highway?
Only if it’s a minor issue and you’re trained to do so.
Otherwise, wait for professional help to avoid danger.