On a motorway
Try to reach an emergency area, the hard shoulder or the next exit. Switch on hazard lights and, at night, sidelights. Leave the car by the left-hand doors, taking everyone with you, and go behind the barrier and up the bank if possible. Do not put out a warning triangle on a motorway, and do not return to the car to collect belongings. If you are stuck in a live lane and cannot get out safely, stay in with your seatbelt on and call 999.
Our motorway and smart motorway guides go into more detail on emergency areas and red X signs.
On an A-road or country lane
Pull as far off the road as you can. On a fast road, get everyone out and stand well back from the traffic, behind a fence or verge if there is one. On narrow lanes, bends and brows of hills, other drivers may come across you suddenly, so keep well clear. A warning triangle can help here, placed well behind the car, if it is safe to walk back with it.
In town or at home
On a residential street or in a car park, the danger is lower. Staying inside with the doors locked is usually safest, especially at night. If you are blocking a junction or driveway, put the hazards on and, if the car rolls, consider pushing it clear with help.
Things to have ready
While you wait, get these together so loading goes smoothly:
- Car keys, plus the locking wheel nut if you have one.
- Anything valuable you want to take out of the car.
- Children's car seats if they are travelling in the truck cab.
- The drop-off address and a contact there.
- A charged phone — the driver may ring to find you.
What not to do
Do not stand between the car and the traffic. Do not try repairs on a motorway. Do not accept help from someone who turns up unasked claiming to be your recovery driver — check the name or registration the operator gave you. And do not wander off; the driver needs to find you.
When you book with us, you get a price before dispatch and a realistic arrival window, and our 24/7 office in Walsall can be called back at any time if something changes.
Keeping warm, cool and calm
Waiting on a verge in winter can get cold quickly, so keep a coat, gloves and a blanket in the car all year round, and wear them rather than sitting in the car on a fast road. In summer, bring water and shade for children and pets. If a child or passenger has a medical need, tell the operator. And if the situation changes while you wait — the car starts rolling, you feel unsafe, someone is injured, or the weather turns — call back straight away. If anyone is in danger, call 999 first.
Frequently asked questions
Should I stay in my car while waiting for recovery?
On a motorway or fast road, no — wait behind the barrier. On a quiet street or in a car park, staying inside with the doors locked is usually safer.
Should I put a warning triangle out?
Not on a motorway. On other roads it can help if it is safe to walk back and place it well behind the car.
What should I do if I break down in a live lane?
If you cannot get out safely, stay in the car with your seatbelt on and hazards on, and call 999.
How will I know it is the right recovery driver?
Check the name or registration the operator gives you before handing over keys.
Need help now?
We take calls 24/7 and give you a price before anyone is dispatched.
Call 03300 435121