Few situations are more stressful for a driver than a car breakdown on a busy highway. Your heart races, cars are whizzing past, and you may not be sure what to do first. But staying calm, acting quickly, and following the right steps can keep you safe and get your vehicle back on the road — or off it — as smoothly as possible.
Whether it’s a flat tyre, engine failure, or overheating, every driver should know the basic protocol for handling highway breakdowns. Here’s a step-by-step guide that’s practical, safe, and easy to follow.
1. Stay Calm and Don’t Panic
The first and most important step is to stay calm. Panicking can lead to poor decisions, and on a highway, mistakes can be dangerous. Take a deep breath and focus on the next steps.
Remember: safety is the priority, not fixing the problem immediately.
2. Move to a Safe Spot
If your car is still moving:
- Gradually slow down and signal early to alert other drivers.
- Try to pull over onto the shoulder or breakdown lane.
- Avoid stopping on bends, bridges, or narrow lanes if possible.
If your car isn’t running:
- Use hazard lights immediately to make your vehicle visible.
- Place warning triangles at a safe distance behind your car if you have them.
Getting your car off the main lanes reduces the risk of accidents and keeps you safer while waiting for assistance.
3. Turn on Hazard Lights and Use Safety Gear
Hazard lights alert other drivers that your car is stopped.
- Turn them on as soon as you realise you might have a problem.
- If it’s dark or visibility is low, consider keeping headlights on too.
- Wear a high-visibility vest if you have one, especially if you need to step outside.
These steps increase your visibility and reduce the risk of being hit by passing vehicles.
4. Assess the Situation Safely
Before attempting any repairs or checking the car:
- Stay inside if the shoulder is narrow or traffic is heavy.
- Only exit the vehicle if it’s safe and the area around you is clear.
- Take note of what happened — unusual noises, smoke, or warning lights.
This helps you or roadside assistance diagnose the problem faster.
5. Call for Professional Help
In most highway breakdown scenarios, calling for professional help is the safest choice. Options include:
- Roadside assistance services: Most insurers or auto clubs like NRMA or RACV offer 24/7 help.
- Towing services: If your car isn’t drivable, a tow truck can safely remove it from the highway.
- Cash-for-cars or wreckers: If the vehicle is old or severely damaged, some services may pick it up for cash.
When calling, provide:
- Your location (use GPS or kilometre markers)
- Vehicle make, model, and colour
- Description of the problem
Being precise saves time and ensures help arrives quickly.
6. Stay Visible and Safe While Waiting
While waiting for help:
- Sit inside the car with your seatbelt fastened if traffic is heavy.
- Keep doors locked and avoid standing in front or behind the car.
- If it’s safe to exit, stand well away from traffic, preferably behind a barrier.
- Keep your phone charged and ready to communicate updates.
Never try to cross lanes of fast-moving traffic to signal other drivers — it’s far safer to wait for professional assistance.
7. Handle Minor Issues Only If Safe
Some minor problems, like a flat tyre, can sometimes be addressed on the shoulder, but only if it’s safe:
- Use a wheel chock or brake to prevent rolling.
- Set up warning triangles to alert approaching drivers.
- Follow proper lifting and jack safety procedures.
If you’re unsure or traffic is heavy, wait for a tow truck instead. Safety comes first.
8. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
Highway breakdowns are stressful, but being prepared makes a huge difference. Your emergency kit should include:
- High-visibility vest
- Warning triangles
- Torch and spare batteries
- Jumper cables
- Basic tools
- Water and snacks
- First aid kit
Being prepared not only keeps you safe but also makes the wait more manageable.
9. Communicate Clearly With Family or Friends
If you’re travelling alone:
- Let someone know your situation and location.
- Provide updates if your tow or roadside service will take longer than expected.
- Avoid leaving the car unattended in unsafe areas.
Clear communication adds a layer of safety and reduces stress.
10. Prevent Future Breakdowns
After your highway experience, consider these preventive steps:
- Regular servicing: Oil changes, fluid checks, and tyre inspections prevent mechanical failure.
- Monitor warning lights: Don’t ignore engine, battery, or temperature warnings.
- Check tyres and brakes: Regular inspection helps avoid flats or sudden brake failures.
- Keep a full tank of fuel: Running out of fuel is a common and preventable breakdown.
Highway breakdowns are often preventable with routine maintenance and preparation.
Highway breakdowns can be stressful, but staying calm, prioritising safety, and calling professional help ensures the situation doesn’t become dangerous. By preparing an emergency kit, understanding how to signal for help, and following these steps, you can manage a breakdown efficiently and safely. Remember, the goal is to stay visible, stay safe, and get professional assistance as quickly as possible — so you can get back on the road with peace of mind.
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