In the event of your vehicle developing a problem on the motorway the Highway Code says to leave the motorway at the next available exit or pull into a service area. If you cannot do this because the problem is a blown tyre or overheating issue and requires you to stop immediately, then you should pull on to the hard shoulder and stop as far to the left as possible, with your wheels pointing to the left. The emergency telephones are situated at approximately one-mile intervals along the hard shoulder of the motorway.
Before you exit your vehicle make sure you leave your car as visible as possible by putting on your hazard lights and side lights if dark. The RAC also recommends that you put on your fog lights in visibility of less than 100 meters. Always exit your vehicle by the left-hand door and ensure your passengers do the same. It says you must leave any animals in the vehicle or, in an emergency, keep them under proper control on the verge ie your dog must be on a lead and your cat in a carrier. Ensure that passengers keep away from the carriageway and hard shoulder, and that children are kept under control. If there is a safety barrier ensure that you are stood behind it and at the very least as far up the embankment/verge as possible.
Walk to an emergency telephone on your side of the carriageway - do not ever try to run across the carriageway (follow the arrows on the posts at the back of the hard shoulder) – the telephone is free of charge and connects directly to the Highways Agency or the police. Use these in preference to a mobile phone - they can pinpoint your exact location on the motorway when you call from one. Always face the traffic when you speak on the phone - do not have your back to the traffic - you need to be fully aware of the traffic around you.
Give as many details as possible to the Highways Agency or the police; also inform them if you are a vulnerable motorist such as disabled, older or travelling alone.
Return and wait near your vehicle, well away from the carriageway and hard shoulder. If you feel at risk from another person, return to your vehicle by a left-hand door and lock all doors - always sit in the left of the car if you have to do this and put your seatbelt on. Leave your vehicle again as soon as you feel this danger has passed. Never stay inside your vehicle whilst waiting for help to arrive - even if it is raining - stay outside and away from your car. During the long dark winter months it is always handy to make sure you have a coat, waterproof jacket or blanket and something reflective in the boot for these such emergencies.
Before you re-join the carriageway after a breakdown build up your speed on the hard shoulder and watch for a safe gap in the traffic - please do not try to join the motorway when travelling at 30 mph - this could be catastrophic. Be mindful that other vehicles may be stationary on the hard shoulder so remember to look ahead as well as over your shoulder.
If you cannot get your vehicle on to the hard shoulder or there is not one on the stretch of road you are on do not attempt to place any warning device on the carriageway such as reflective triangles, instead switch on your hazard warning lights, and leave your vehicle only when you can safely get clear of the carriageway and other traffic. Having your vehicle regularly serviced by your local independant garage will help to reduce breakdowns. Happy Motoring!
