Breakdowns & Emergencies
The last thing anyone wants, at any time, is to suffer a breakdown by the road. It's even worse when it is in an area we are not familiar with and miles from home.
Whilst it is impossile to guarantee your car or motorcycle will never break down, there are plenty of things we can do to reduce the likelihood of it happening.
Prevention is Better than Cure
- SERVICE THE VEHICLE
Pretty obvious really, you should take the car to a reputable mechanic to have it serviced. Don't leave it last minute - allow time for any unforseen repairs to be made.
- ESSENTIALS SPARES & ACCESSORIES
It is worth taking with you some basic spares such as a fan belt and spare bulbs (this is a legal requirement in some countries). Don't forget such items as a warning triangle, first aid kit, and high visibility vest.
- PLAN & RESEARCH YOUR JOURNEY
Sat Nav's are well and good but they dont give you an overview of your whole journey and shouldn't replace a good, up to date, map, road atlas, or route plan. Allow plenty of time for your journey, particularly on the first day if it means you're driving on the opposite side of the road you are used to.
- BREAKDOWN COVER
Make sure you have good breakdown cover for the area you are travelling. UK breakdown cover doesn't automatically cover breakdowns in Europe. Obtain either single trip European Breakdown Cover or a UK & European Annual Breakdown Cover plan.
On the Road
- SAFETY FIRST
If your car or motorcyle breaks down the your first priority must be that of safety. Get as far off the road as possible. If your car wont start and you are still on the carriageway, try putting it in gear and turning the starter motor. This may give you enough to inch off the road. If you have high visibility vest, put it on before getting out of the car.
If your car is on the verge of a busy road, or hard shoulder of a motorway, get everyone out of the car and to the other side of any crash barriers. Always use the doors furthest away from the traffic.
- PROTECT YOUR CAR
Put your hazard warning lights on. If it is safe to do so, place a warning triangle at least 50 yards (45 metres) behind your vehicle. In the UK, it is not recommended you do this on motorways.
- ON A MOTORWAY
If possible, try to stop near a telephone. These are usually placed at regular intervals along the hard shoulder. Arrows will indicate in which direction you need to walk to find the nearest one. Keep your hazard light and side lights on.
Do not attempt even the simplest repair - always report your breakdown as soon as possible. Make a note of the number marker post nearest to your vehicle so you can report this when you speak to the emergency operator. Follow their instructions and return to your vehicle.
If you manage to start the vehicle again before assistance arrives, don't just drive off. Wait until assistance gets to you.
- ON OTHER ROADS
Once you are in a safe place, call your breakdown assistance company. If you need to leave your vehicle to find a phone, make sure it is well off the carriageway and secure. Keep your hazard light and side lights on.
