The 5 steps to getting back on the road after a breakdown
The 5 steps to getting back on the road after a breakdown
According to the latest statistics from Highways England, there are roughly 200,000 vehicle breakdowns on UK motorways and A-roads every year.
Additional research from the Department for Transport reveals that summer is the most prevalent time of year for breakdowns, with rising temperatures putting more strain on cooling systems resulting in an increased likelihood of water leaks.
Even though modern-day vehicles are extremely reliable, breakdowns are still a distinct possibility and can occur at a moment’s notice. So, if you’ve never found yourself in this position before, here’s five steps to get you back on the road.
Pull over to the side of the road safely
If you can, find a safe place to pull over, either off the road or on the hard shoulder. Turn on your hazard and parking lights to alert other drivers of your location and situation. You may also want to open your bonnet as another visual clue.
Check for traffic before exiting your vehicle and make sure you close the door behind you. If possible, exit from the side of the vehicle facing away from traffic. Stand clear of the road and be aware of your surroundings. If it isn’t safe to exit your vehicle, stay inside with your seatbelt on.
Try to find out what is wrong
Even if you’re not very mechanically minded, you might be able to find out what’s wrong with a visual inspection of your vehicle. For example, flat tyres and overheating radiators are fairly obvious.
Unless you know what you’re doing, do not attempt to fix your vehicle, especially if you’ve broken down in a busy or hazardous location. Not only could you injure or hurt yourself, you may also do the vehicle more harm than good.
Call for help
If you’re unsure of the problem or definitely require help, call a breakdown company or roadside assistance provider. When on the phone, always face the traffic just in case you need to avoid an approaching vehicle.
Don’t have breakdown or roadside assistance? You really should, on a personal level, but if you drive for business it’s an essential – especially if you manage a fleet of vehicles, for example. Some levels of business breakdown cover include van-for-van replacements, and free online vehicle management.
Listen to the mechanic’s advice
Once you’ve called for breakdown support, pay heed to the advice you’re given. All being well, you should be on your way in no time. However, if the problem is more serious, listen to the advice of the mechanic on what to do next. Don’t be tempted to drive on and simply ignore the issue.
Along with providing transport to your work, home, or local garage, they’ll also be able to recommend what repair is required.
Stay calm and be patient
Vehicle breakdowns are part and parcel of daily life. Most of the time, there’s nothing you can do to avoid them, even if your vehicle is regularly maintained and serviced.
So, stay calm and be patient. The most important thing is your safety, which always takes precedence over fixing an impromptu breakdown as quickly as possible.
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