Breakdown cover is a luxury, and we know its not always a possibility for young drivers. Its really important to maintain your car well, as this helps to prevent breakdowns. However, if you do breakdown, firstly stay calm and then try to get your car to a safe place.
If youre on the motorway, pull over to the hard shoulder and stop as far left as possible. Put your hazard and side lights on, then get out of the car (taking your passengers too) through the passenger door, even if you have to climb over the seats. Take your phone and your breakdown membership card if you have one with you.
As soon as you get out of the car, get as far away from the carriageway as possible - if there is a barrier, get behind it, walk up the bank and stay there. Then phone for help. Remember the SOS phones on motorways are free and will put you through to the nearest Police control centre. They will phone a recovery truck or a family member to tow you off the motorway.
If you are anywhere other than a motorway, try to get to a safe place to pull over out of the way of traffic, put your hazard lights on and get out of the vehicle if safe to do so. If you have a hazard triangle, and it is safe to put it up, this may also help other drivers and cyclists to see you.
This is where breakdown cover comes in - give them a ring and theyll take you through the steps to recover you.
Normally breakdown assistance will be with you within the hour, and theyll probably try to fix your car on the spot, and if they cant theyll tow you to a local garage or home, depending on your cover.
If you dont have cover, try to find a relative or friend to come and tow you off the motorway. Towing is not something to undertake lightly, especially on a motorway. Get an experienced, confident driver to help you.
Dont be tempted to attempt any repairs yourself on the motorway its not safe.
If you dont have a mobile phone, walk to an emergency phone or a public phone ensuring it is safe. Your ADI will take you through this in your License Sessions and Pass Plus3 Package.
