What to Do When You Break Down on a Motorway

Breaking down on a motorway is one of the most stressful things that can happen to any driver. The traffic is fast, the hard shoulder feels dangerously narrow, and you're not sure who to call first. Whether you're a daily commuter or a lorry driver covering thousands of miles a week, knowing what to do in that moment can make a massive difference.

Step 1 — Get Off the Live Lanes

If your vehicle starts losing power or showing warning lights, try to make it to the next exit or services if they're close. If you can't, pull onto the hard shoulder as far left as possible. On smart motorways without a hard shoulder, look for an emergency refuge area (the orange SOS phone bays).

If you're stuck in a live lane and can't move the vehicle, keep your seatbelt on, turn on your hazard lights, and call 999 immediately.

Step 2 — Make Yourself Visible

Turn on your hazard lights straight away. If it's safe to exit the vehicle, get out on the passenger side (away from traffic) and move behind the barrier. Take a high-vis jacket if you have one.

If you have passengers, especially children, get everyone out on the passenger side and well away from the carriageway.

Step 3 — Call For Help

You've got three options depending on your situation:

• Emergency (blocking lanes / danger): Call 999
• National Highways: Call 0300 123 5000
• Our platform: Submit a breakdown request and we'll connect you with a verified local provider — usually within 15–30 minutes, completely free for drivers

Step 4 — Stay Safe While Waiting

Stay behind the barrier, well away from the carriageway. Don't try to fix the vehicle yourself on a live motorway — it's not worth the risk. Keep your phone charged and volume up so the recovery provider can reach you.

If it's cold, take a coat with you when you exit the vehicle. Don't sit in the car on the hard shoulder for extended periods — this is the most dangerous place to wait.

Step 5 — Know What Happens Next

When you use our platform, a verified provider will call you directly. They'll confirm your exact location, give you an ETA, and agree on pricing before they start any work. You pay them directly — we never charge drivers.

Smart Motorway Tip

Smart motorways without a hard shoulder are particularly dangerous when you break down. If you can't reach a refuge area, stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened and hazards on. Call 999. National Highways will set signals to close the lane behind you and send a traffic officer.

The most important thing is staying calm and staying safe. Help is never far away.