What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Breaking down on a busy highway is stressful, but knowing what to do can keep you safe until a tow truck arrives. Here's a step-by-step guide for BC drivers.

Step 1: Move Your Vehicle to Safety

As soon as you notice your car struggling, activate your hazard lights immediately. Steer gently toward the right shoulder or the nearest emergency bay. If you can't move under your own power, stay in your lane with hazards on until you come to a stop, then do not attempt to push the vehicle on a live lane.

Step 2: Stay Inside or Get Clear

On a highway, the safest option depends on traffic conditions. If the shoulder is wide and clear, exit via the passenger-side door and stand well behind the guard rail. If traffic is heavy or the shoulder is narrow, stay buckled in your vehicle with hazards on — inside is often safer than standing beside a highway.

Step 3: Set Up Warning Signals

If you carry emergency triangles or flares, place them 30–60 metres behind your vehicle to warn approaching drivers. Keep your hazard lights running until help arrives.

Step 4: Call for Help

In BC, dial **#77** on your cell to reach RCMP and highway patrol, or call us directly at **(778) 838-0014** for immediate 24/7 towing and roadside assistance. Share your exact location, the highway number, and the nearest kilometre marker if visible.

Step 5: Wait Safely

While waiting for a tow truck, stay alert and visible. If night-time, hold a flashlight or use your phone's torch. Avoid attempting repairs on a live highway shoulder.

TowingNo.1 responds to highway breakdowns across the Lower Mainland, Delta, Langley, Surrey, Burnaby, and White Rock. Average response time: under 15 minutes.