Vehicle breakdowns
Whilst every instructor does all they can to provide the information and
skills required for a newly qualified driver to survive on today’s roads.
What information do you provide in the event of a vehicle breakdown?
The majority of Britons rely on their car or van for getting around, but even well cared for vehicles can breakdown. Stopping roadside is always a potentially hazardous business, and in winter, when dark evenings, poor visibility and bad weather are the norm, it can be even more dangerous.
Follow our step-by-step guide to what to do in a breakdown emergency, and stay safe.
On the motorway
Where possible, you should always try to make it to a slip road or safe place if you have car trouble on the motorway. But when you are forced to stop on the hard shoulder because of an emergency, safety is of paramount importance.
Pull as far onto left onto the hard shoulder as possible, and turn your wheels turned to the left. Switch on the hazard lights and leave sidelights on, before ensuring that both driver and passengers exit via the left-hand door. Do not attempt to put our a warning triangle, and if you have reflective jackets (always a good idea for winter driving) wear them. If you have pets in the car, it is best to leave them there, but if you must remove them, do so on the left-hand side, and ensure they are kept completely under control. All parties should move as far away from the vehicle (ie. onto a bank or verge) as possible. Never attempt repairs on the hard shoulder, even if it's just changing a tyre.
Once both you and your passengers are safely away from the traffic, use a mobile phone to call for help. The blue driver location signs will enable breakdown services to find you. Alternatively walk to one of the free emergency telephones on your side of the carriageway, which connect directly to the police or relevant Highways Agency, and give full details, including if you are a vulnerable motorist.
In a situation where you are unable to make it to the hard shoulder,