{"id":4994,"date":"2023-11-22T10:11:54","date_gmt":"2023-11-22T10:11:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/?p=4994"},"modified":"2026-04-06T13:01:38","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T12:01:38","slug":"what-to-do-if-you-break-down-on-the-motorway","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/what-to-do-if-you-break-down-on-the-motorway\/","title":{"rendered":"Motorway: What To Do If You Break Down on The Motorway?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Motorways are considered the <\/span>safest roads<\/span> to travel on, but if your car breaks down, it can be a stressful and dangerous situation. The combination of high-speed traffic and little room for stopping can indeed turn a simple breakdown into a nerve-wracking predicament. <\/span>Therefore, it’s essential to be prepared and know what to do if you break down on the motorway.<\/span><\/p>\n

In this guide, we’ll outline the necessary steps to ensure your safety and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n

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What To Do If You Break Down on The Motorway?<\/span><\/h2>\n

As soon as you realise your vehicle has stopped in the middle of the road<\/a>, the first thing to do is remain calm, slow down gradually, and try to exit at the next junction<\/a> or motorway service area.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, if that’s not possible, consider following these steps to stay safe.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Step 1: Go Left<\/span><\/h3>\n

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If you can’t exit the motorway, your next best option is to go left. Turn on the left indicator and stay in the left lane.<\/span><\/p>\n

If there’s a hard shoulder available, it’s your first and safest option. It’s a lane set aside on the left side of the motorway, specifically for emergencies like these.<\/span><\/p>\n

However, not all motorways have a hard shoulder, especially smart motorways. If this is the case, keep an eye out for <\/span>emergency refuge areas (ERAs)<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

You’ll be able to spot them by their blue signs displaying an orange or yellow SOS box<\/strong>. They also provide information about the distance to the next emergency area.<\/span><\/p>\n

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If you’re travelling on a ‘major A road’, try to reach a lay-by. If that’s not possible, your next best option is to get to the nearside verge.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Step 2: Get Safe<\/span><\/h3>\n

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Once you’ve moved your vehicle to the left, whether that’s onto the hard shoulder, an emergency refuge area, or the nearside verge, it’s time to focus on your immediate safety.<\/span><\/p>\n

Switch on your hazard lights immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n

If it’s dark or foggy, keep your sidelights on as well.<\/span><\/p>\n

This helps notify other drivers of your presence and that there may be a problem, especially in poor visibility conditions or nighttime driving<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Next, if there’s a barrier or safety rail present, try your best to get behind it. This separates you from the moving traffic and keeps you safe.<\/span><\/p>\n

Do understand that safety takes precedence over comfort. Even if it’s raining or snowing, it is recommended to stay outside your vehicle behind the barrier until professional help arrives.. Staying inside the vehicle can expose you to unnecessary risk in the event of a collision.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pets, if any, should be kept inside the vehicle. This is to prevent them from running onto the live carriageway and potentially causing accidents or coming to harm.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Also Read:<\/b> 10 Ways to Get Your Car Ready for Winter<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Step 3: Get Help<\/span><\/h3>\n

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When you’re safely positioned, it’s time to get help. If you’ve managed to stop in an emergency area (EA), you’ll find an SOS phone provided for just this purpose. Using this phone will automatically give the regional operation centres your exact location, making it easier for them to find you and get to you quicker.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re not near an emergency area, use your mobile phone to dial the <\/span>Emergency telephone motorway number 0300 1235000<\/b> for assistance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Once in contact with them, the authorities will provide you with advice on what to do next.<\/span><\/p>\n

You can then call your breakdown provider, notifying them of your exact location.<\/span><\/p>\n

Make sure to provide them with details about your situation so that they can assist you accordingly.<\/span><\/p>\n

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