What to Do If You Break Down on the Highway

A vehicle breakdown on the highway can be stressful, especially with heavy traffic passing by. At Preferred Emergency Towing & Recovery in Markham, IL, we understand how unsettling this situation can be. Knowing the right steps to take can make a big difference in ensuring your safety and getting the help you need as quickly as possible. Here’s a simple guide on what to do if you find yourself dealing with a highway breakdown.

1. Remain Calm and Assess the Situation

When you notice an issue with your vehicle, it’s natural to feel worried. Take a moment to assess the problem. Watch for warning lights, listen for unusual sounds, and notice any unusual smells. If your car is still moving, try to steer it toward the shoulder or a safe spot off the road.

2. Safely Pull Over

If you can, pull your vehicle to the right shoulder of the highway. Use your turn signals to let other drivers know you’re moving to the side. If stopping on the shoulder isn’t possible, turn on your hazard lights and stay in your vehicle until help arrives.

3. Turn on Hazard Lights

As soon as you pull over, switch on your hazard lights. This alerts other drivers that your car is in trouble, giving them time to adjust and avoid getting too close to your vehicle.

4. Stay Inside Your Vehicle

In most cases, it’s safest to stay inside your vehicle, especially if you’re on a busy highway. Exiting your car can put you at risk from passing traffic. Keep your seatbelt on and wait for assistance unless you’re in immediate danger.

5. Call a Reliable Towing Service

Once you’re safely off the road, contact a trusted towing service. Preferred Emergency Towing & Recovery provides 24/7 roadside assistance throughout Markham, IL, and nearby areas. Our team is trained to handle emergency situations and will get to you as quickly as possible to ensure your safety.

Tip: Share your exact location when you call. If possible, use GPS or identify nearby landmarks to help us find you faster.

6. Use Roadside Safety Tools if You Have Them

If you have safety items like reflective triangles or flares, place them a few feet behind your car to make it more visible to oncoming traffic. Only do this if it’s safe and if you’re away from the flow of traffic.

7. Avoid DIY Repairs on the Highway

While you might be tempted to fix a simple issue yourself, it’s safer to wait for professional help on the highway. Working on your vehicle near fast-moving traffic can be dangerous. Our team at Preferred Emergency Towing & Recovery is ready to assist with whatever you need.

8. Follow Up with Repairs After the Tow

Once we tow your vehicle to a safe location or repair shop, be sure to address the issue promptly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs help minimize the risk of future breakdowns, keeping you safer on the road.

Why Choose Preferred Emergency Towing & Recovery for Highway Assistance?

In a breakdown situation, having a dependable towing partner is essential. Preferred Emergency Towing & Recovery in Markham, IL, is here 24/7 to provide quick, professional help whenever you need it. Our team is experienced in handling all types of highway emergencies, from simple tows to more complex recovery situations. We’re committed to ensuring you get the assistance you need with minimal stress.

Save Our Number for Quick, Reliable Towing Assistance

Breakdowns are never convenient, but having a trustworthy towing service on speed dial can bring peace of mind. Save our number, and remember that Preferred Emergency Towing & Recovery is here to help you navigate any roadside emergency with confidence.