What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Breaking down on a busy highway is one of the most stressful situations any driver can face. The fast-moving traffic, limited shoulder space, and the general feeling of vulnerability can cause panic. However, knowing exactly what steps to take can keep you and your passengers safe while you wait for professional help.

1. Pull Over Safely

As soon as you notice an issue—whether it's a strange noise, loss of power, or a flat tire—turn on your hazard lights immediately. This signals to other drivers that you are experiencing an emergency. Carefully merge to the right lane and pull onto the shoulder as far away from traffic as possible.

2. Make Your Vehicle Visible

Once you have safely stopped, ensure your hazard lights remain on. If it's dark or visibility is poor (due to rain or fog), keep your side lights on. If it is safe to exit the vehicle, place warning triangles at least 50 meters behind your car to alert oncoming traffic.

Safety First: Never attempt to change a tire or repair your vehicle on the side of a busy highway. The risk of being hit by passing traffic is incredibly high. Always wait for professional assistance.

3. Stay Inside the Vehicle

If you are unable to pull entirely off the road or if traffic is heavy, the safest place for you and your passengers is usually inside the vehicle with your seatbelts fastened. If you must exit the vehicle, only do so from the passenger side, away from traffic.

4. Call for Professional Help

Once you are somewhat safe, call a reliable towing service immediately. Be prepared to provide them with:

• Your exact location (use GPS or look for highway markers).
• The make, model, and color of your vehicle.
• A brief description of the problem.
• Your contact number.

At Riyadh Towing, our emergency response team is available 24/7 to assist you. Our professional drivers are equipped to secure the scene safely and either fix minor issues like a flat battery or tow your vehicle securely to a repair shop.