Life Hack: What to do if your car breaks down on a motorway
Everything you need to know to stay safe during a breakdown
According to insurer the AA, the hard shoulder is one of the most dangerous areas on any road and is only for emergency use. In an emergency, you should move your vehicle onto the hard shoulder if you have no other choice. The safest option is to drive to a safer place off the motorway if possible rather than stopping on the hard shoulder.
If you are parking on the hard shoulder of the motorway, park as far to the left as possible and point your wheels left too. Leave your sidelights on and use your hazard lights.
If you are unable to move your vehicle onto the hard shoulder, switch on your hazard warning lights and only leave your vehicle when you can safely get clear of the carriageway.
Do not remain in the vehicle. You and any passengers should exit the vehicle by the left-hand door. Wear a reflective jacket if you have one and only place a reflective triangle by the vehicle if it is safe to do so.
Ensure that passengers keep away from both the road and the hard shoulder. Move up the bank or behind a barrier if possible for safety.
Children should leave the vehicle as safely as possible, exiting through the left doors. Move them off the road to stand behind a barrier or up on a verge.
If you are travelling with a pet, it is recommended you leave them in the vehicle as it is easier to keep them under control and they are less likely to get loose and run into traffic. If you need to remove them from the car, keep them off the road and well-secured.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland says a Motorway Service Helpline to assist road users in difficulty on a motorway is available. All calls are directed through the Motorway Traffic Control Centre, the number is 0818 715 100.
You can also ring your insurer if you have roadside assistance as part of your cover, or ring a nearby garage for help.
If you don’t have a phone, walk to an emergency telephone on your side of the carriageway – never cross the carriageway. The phone is free and connects directly to the TII’s Motorway Traffic Control Centre.
You should always face oncoming traffic while making the call.
If you have a disability or limited mobility, stay in your vehicle and switch on your hazard warning lights. Contact the emergency services.
