What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down on the Motorway
Step-by-step safety advice for breaking down on UK motorways, including smart motorways like the M4 and M25.
1. Try to leave the motorway
If your car shows warning signs, aim for the next exit or services. If that's not possible, move into an emergency area or onto the hard shoulder.
2. Stop as far left as you can
Switch on hazard lights, and sidelights if it's dark or foggy. Turn your wheels towards the verge.
3. Get out on the passenger side
Everyone should leave the vehicle by the left-hand doors and wait behind the safety barrier, well away from traffic. Leave animals in the vehicle unless it's unsafe.
4. Stuck in a live lane? Call 999
On smart motorways without a hard shoulder, if you can't get out safely, keep your seatbelt on, hazards on, and call 999 immediately.
5. Call for recovery
Tell us the motorway, direction and nearest junction or marker post number. A WhatsApp location pin is ideal.
Related help
More motorway & safety guides
- Broken Down on the M4? What To Do
- Broken Down Near Heathrow? A Quick Guide
- How Much Does Car Recovery Cost?
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