Planning for a long road trip, daily commute, or holiday journey? Preparing for the possibility of a car breakdown is essential to ensure your safety and minimize stress during unexpected vehicle failures. Here’s a guide to help you stay prepared and handle breakdown situations effectively.
What to Do Before You Set Off
- Sign Up for a Breakdown Recovery Service
Investing in a breakdown recovery service can save you time, money, and stress in emergencies. While you may need to pay a monthly fee, the peace of mind it provides is worth the expense. If you don’t drive frequently and prefer not to commit to a subscription, research local breakdown recovery services. Ensure they offer 24-hour coverage and can respond promptly in your travel areas.
- Keep Your Car Well-Maintained
Regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of a breakdown. Key checks include:
- Fluids: Ensure windshield washer fluid, coolant, and engine oil are topped up.
- Tyres: Check tyre pressure and tread depth regularly to avoid flats or blowouts.
- Battery: Test your car battery periodically and replace it if it’s nearing the end of its life.
- Carry a Road Map
Even in the age of GPS and smart phones, having a physical road map can be invaluable. A map serves as a reliable backup in areas with poor signal or if your phone’s battery dies.
- Charge Your Phone and Keep Backups
A fully charged phone is your lifeline during a breakdown. Consider carrying a portable charger or an in-car charging adapter for added security.
- Keep Reflective and Protective Gear
Equip your car with a reflective jacket and a waterproof raincoat. If you need to leave your vehicle on a busy road, these items improve your visibility to other drivers and protect you from adverse weather. In colder months, pack extra clothing to stay warm.
- Carry a Red Warning Triangle
Warning triangles are effective tools for alerting other drivers of your breakdown. Place the triangle approximately 50 meters behind your car on standard roads. Avoid using them on motorways for safety reasons.
What to Do If You Break Down
- Turn on Hazard Lights
Activate your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers of your situation. If it’s dark, switch on your side lights as well for additional visibility.
- Park Safely and Exit Cautiously
- On regular roads: Pull into a safe spot and remain in the car if conditions allow.
- On motorways: Pull onto the hard shoulder, turn your wheels toward the verge, and exit the vehicle from the left-hand side. Move behind the crash barrier if possible and ensure children are supervised. Leave pets inside the vehicle to prevent accidents.
- Call Your Breakdown Service
Use the nearest emergency phone on the motorway for precise location tracking. Emergency roadside phones are marked with signs to help you find the closest one. Alternatively, use your mobile to contact your breakdown provider, such as Car Breakdown Recovery Services, or call the Highways Agency national switchboard at 0300 123 5000 (available from 7 AM to 7 PM).
Additional Tips for Motorway Breakdowns
- Always stop near an emergency phone for quicker assistance.
- Keep your breakdown service provider’s contact details saved on your phone for easy access.
- Avoid standing near traffic lanes or attempting roadside repairs in unsafe conditions.
By following these steps, you’ll be better prepared for the unexpected and able to handle a car breakdown in Birmingham or beyond with confidence. Always prioritize safety and plan ahead to keep your journey as stress-free as possible.