Step 1: Pull Over in a Safe Location (if you can)

Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers of a problem.

If possible, try to exit the motorway at the nearest junction or services.

If you can’t exit, pull over onto the hard shoulder as far left as possible.

Turn your steering wheel to the left if you have to stop, this will help prevent the car from rolling.

Step 2: Get Everyone Out Safely

If you can exit the car from the left-hand/passenger side, away from oncoming traffic.

Make sure everyone else in the car does the same.

Important: Leave pets safe inside the car. It’s much safer for them to stay put than be on the side of the motorway.  The high speeds on the motorway make the hard shoulder dangerous for pets. Take them out only in a serious emergency and keep them well-controlled.

Step 3: Call for Help

If you have a breakdown service membership, give them a call right away for roadside assistance.

If you don’t have breakdown help, locate an emergency phone on the hard shoulder (marked with orange signs). These phones are free to use and connect you directly to help.

Step 4: Wait in a Safe Spot

While you wait for assistance, move to a safe location well away from traffic. The grass verge is ideal, go up the bank if you can.

Do not attempt to fix the car yourself, even for seemingly simple problems.

Keep children and pets safe and calm away from the hard shoulder.

Step 5: Get Back on the Road

Once your breakdown service arrives or your car is fixed, carefully rejoin the motorway when it’s safe.