What to Do When Your Vehicle Breaks Down
Despite how prepared you may be, vehicle breakdowns can happen when you least expect it. Review our checklist to ensure you’re prepared if car troubles strike. We recommend keeping this checklist in your glove box or saved on your phone as a reminder.
In the event your vehicle does break down:
Pull off the road.
- Pull off the road as far away from traffic as possible. Stay with your vehicle.
- If you get out of your vehicle, proceed carefully and watch for oncoming traffic.
- Never stand behind or directly in front of your vehicle as other drivers may have difficulty seeing you.
- If your vehicle is inoperable and you cannot pull off the road, turn on your emergency flashers. If you are uncertain about your safety and think your vehicle may get struck from behind, do not remain in your vehicle.
Alert other motorists.
- Make sure your vehicle is visible to other motorists. Turn on emergency flashers, raise your hood and if available, attach a brightly colored piece of material to the antenna or door handle. You can also place flares or warning triangles behind your vehicle to direct oncoming traffic around your vehicle.
- If you suspect a fuel leak or smell fuel fumes, do not ignite flares and extinguish any lit cigarettes.
Note your location.
Take note of your vehicle’s location. Helpful identifiers include exact address, nearest intersection or mile marker, last exit number or rest area on the highway, and landmarks such as service stations, restaurants, shopping centers, business complexes, etc.
Call AAA for roadside assistance.
Have the following information available when you call AAA:
- AAA Membership number
- Phone number where you can be reached