Breaking down on the road isn’t exactly on anyone’s to-do list. One minute you’re on your way to work, picking up the kids, or heading out for a weekend trip—and the next, your car makes a strange noise, slows to a crawl, and leaves you stuck on the side of the road. It’s frustrating, stressful, and sometimes a little scary.
But here’s the thing: car breakdowns happen to everyone eventually. And while you can’t always predict them, you can control how you respond. Over the years, we’ve helped thousands of people in exactly this situation, and the one thing that makes a huge difference is staying calm and clear-headed.
So if you ever find yourself broken down, here’s how to keep your cool and stay safe.
Step One: Get to Safety First
The first thing to do when something goes wrong is to get your car to a safe location. If you’re able to steer, pull over as far off the road as possible. Ideally, you want to be on the shoulder, in a breakdown lane, or in a nearby parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights immediately, even before you stop the car—this lets other drivers know something’s wrong.
If you’re on a busy highway or in heavy traffic, every second counts. Move over carefully, avoiding sudden swerves. Your goal is simple: get out of the flow of traffic and into a spot where you can wait safely.
Step Two: Breathe. Literally.
Your adrenaline might kick in—heart racing, mind spinning—but take a deep breath. You’re okay. The situation is manageable. Even if you’re alone, in the dark, or in unfamiliar surroundings, remind yourself that help is available. Panic doesn’t solve anything, and staying calm allows you to think clearly and make better decisions.
One of our customers once broke down on the freeway late at night with two kids in the back seat. She was panicking, understandably. When she called us, we walked her through turning on her hazard lights, staying in the vehicle, and giving her exact location. When we arrived, she was relieved to see a friendly face—and she said just hearing someone calm on the phone helped her settle down. Sometimes, that’s all it takes.
Step Three: Stay Inside (If It’s Safe)
Unless there’s immediate danger—like smoke, fire, or a serious collision—it’s usually safer to stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on. If you have to get out (say, to inspect a flat tyre), do so from the side facing away from traffic and keep it brief.
If you’ve broken down in a high-speed zone, like a freeway, it’s often too dangerous to be walking around the vehicle. Sit tight, turn on your interior light if it’s dark, and keep your phone handy.
Step Four: Make Yourself Visible
Hazard lights are a must, but if you’ve got them, reflective triangles or safety vests add another layer of protection—especially at night or in bad weather. The more visible you are to other drivers, the safer you’ll be.
Some cars come with breakdown kits, but most people forget they have them until it’s too late. Take a moment to check your boot when you get home—see if you’ve got any safety gear, and if not, it might be worth keeping some in the car.
Step Five: Call for Help
Once you’re safe and calm, it’s time to get help. Whether it’s a tow truck (that’s where we come in!), roadside assistance, or a friend or family member, don’t wait too long to make the call.
Be ready to tell us your location. If you’re not sure, look for street signs, highway markers, nearby landmarks, or use your phone’s GPS to share your location. The more details you can give us, the faster we can get to you.
If your phone battery is low, keep the screen dim and close unnecessary apps. If it’s completely dead, and you’re in a safe place, you may need to flag down help or walk to a nearby service station—only if it’s absolutely safe to do so.
Step Six: Keep Occupied (Without Losing Awareness)
While you’re waiting, it’s okay to turn on some music, scroll your phone, or even chat with a friend to pass the time. But keep one ear tuned to what’s happening around you. If someone approaches your vehicle, roll down the window just a little to speak and never open your door unless you feel completely safe.
And if a stranger offers to tow your car, be cautious. Only accept help from properly marked tow trucks or people you’ve contacted yourself. We’ve heard stories where “helpful” strangers ended up causing more problems.
Step Seven: Reflect Once You’re Back on the Road
When your car’s been towed, fixed, or restarted, and you’re safely home or back on the road, take a moment to reflect. What went wrong? Was it avoidable? Do you need to update your roadside emergency kit? Check your tyre pressure more often? Get the battery tested?
Breakdowns are inconvenient, but they’re also a chance to learn. And every time you handle one well, you get a little more prepared for the next unexpected hiccup.
You can’t always stop breakdowns from happening, but you can control your response. And being calm and alert can make all the difference. So the next time your car gives up on you—whether it’s a flat, a dead battery, or something more serious—remember: take a breath, stay safe, and give us a call when you need help. We’ve got your back.
If you are in Dallas, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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