What To Do When Your Car Breaks Down

Published on 2025-06-30

Your car just died — maybe on the highway, in a neighborhood, or right at a red light. Don't panic. Breakdowns happen, and what you do in the next few minutes can keep you safe and save you time.

1. Get to Safety If You Can

If the car is still rolling, try to coast onto the shoulder or into a nearby parking lot. Use your signals and steer gently to avoid blocking traffic. If the engine dies in place, turn on your hazard lights immediately.

2. Stay Visible

Hazard lights are a must. If it's nighttime or raining, keep your lights on. If you have road flares or a reflective triangle, set them up behind the car to alert oncoming drivers.

3. Stay Inside If You're in a Dangerous Area

If you're on a busy road or highway, it's safer to stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on. Getting out near traffic can be extremely dangerous unless you're in a low-traffic or safe spot.

4. Call for Help

Whether it's a flat tire, engine trouble, or something unknown, calling a towing service is usually the safest bet. Dunwoody Towing offers 24/7 roadside assistance and will get you off the road quickly.

Need help now? (866) 530-7414

5. Don't Accept Rides from Strangers

It's better to wait for a trusted towing company or someone you know. Unfortunately, scammers and unsafe situations can arise when accepting rides from strangers.

6. Have a Plan for Next Time

Keep a roadside emergency kit in your trunk. Include water, jumper cables, a phone charger, flashlight, and basic tools. And most importantly — save our number in your phone before you need it.

Dunwoody Towing — fast, friendly, and right around the corner when your day doesn't go as planned.