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
Description of your vehicle, including make, model and year, and color
License plate number
Auto repair shop where you want your vehicle towed, if necessary
If you don’t have a trusted shop, ask the operator if there is a nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair facility.

What to expect from emergency road service.

Your service provider should be able to give you an estimated time of arrival.
AAA roadside technicians can provide fuel, change tires, and jump or replace your battery.
If the breakdown is due to more severe mechanical or electrical problems, the vehicle will need to be towed to a repair center.

AAA is available 24/7 to help you and your loved ones get back on the road. If you suspect a battery issue, AAA Mobile Battery Service will come to you, almost anywhere you are, and install a replacement battery right on the spot. Get your free instant quote today at AAA.com/Battery.

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.