Breaking down on a busy highway is stressful, unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Whether it’s a flat tyre, overheating engine, dead battery or mechanical failure, knowing what to do next can help keep you and your passengers safe while reducing additional damage to your vehicle.
Many breakdown situations happen unexpectedly, even in well-maintained vehicles. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation, roadside emergencies and preventable vehicle issues continue to contribute to traffic disruptions and dangerous roadside conditions across South Africa.
The good news is that staying calm and following a few important safety steps can make a significant difference.
The first priority during a highway breakdown is safety.
If you notice warning signs such as:
try to move your vehicle safely out of active traffic as soon as possible.
Avoid braking suddenly or swerving aggressively, especially on busy highways.
If the vehicle is still moving:
If possible, stop as far away from moving traffic as you can.
According to Arrive Alive, secondary accidents often happen when stranded vehicles remain too close to active traffic lanes.
Your hazard lights help alert other drivers that your vehicle is experiencing a problem.
Turn them on immediately after pulling over.
If visibility is poor because of:
hazard lights become even more important for roadside visibility.
Many motorists instinctively exit the vehicle immediately after stopping. However, this is not always the safest option.
If traffic is moving quickly and there is no safe roadside area, remaining inside the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened may sometimes be safer than standing near moving traffic.
If you must exit:
South African road regulations require vehicles to carry reflective warning triangles.
Place the triangle a safe distance behind your vehicle to alert approaching traffic.
The South African Police Service encourages motorists to use visible warning devices during roadside emergencies, particularly at night or during poor weather conditions.
Trying to repair your vehicle while standing near high-speed traffic can be dangerous.
Avoid attempting repairs unless:
This is especially important during:
If you have a flat tyre, move the vehicle to a safer location before attempting to change it.
Once you are safe, contact roadside assistance or emergency support.
Many drivers now rely on roadside assistance services included with their car insurance benefits, helping provide support during:
Having access to roadside assistance can help reduce waiting times and improve safety during stressful situations.
Emergency kits can make a major difference during roadside breakdowns.
Useful items include:
Regular vehicle maintenance checks may also help reduce the likelihood of unexpected roadside emergencies.
Many roadside emergencies are preventable.
Some of the most common causes include:
According to AA South Africa, poor vehicle maintenance remains one of the leading contributors to preventable roadside breakdowns across the country.
Simple maintenance habits may help reduce the risk of highway breakdowns significantly.
Drivers should regularly:
Ignoring smaller warning signs can sometimes lead to larger and more expensive mechanical failures later.
While waiting for assistance:
If you feel threatened or unsafe, contact emergency services immediately.
Unexpected roadside emergencies can become expensive quickly.
Costs may include:
That’s why many motorists explore comprehensive car insurance options that may help provide support during unexpected vehicle incidents.
Understanding your roadside assistance and emergency support options before travelling long distances may help reduce stress during emergencies.
Before travelling:
Drivers preparing for longer trips may also benefit from reviewing this road trip safety checklist.
What should I do first if my car breaks down on the highway?
Move your vehicle safely out of traffic if possible and turn on your hazard lights immediately.
Is it safe to stand outside my car on the highway?
Not always. High-speed traffic can make roadside areas dangerous. Move away from traffic where possible.
Should I call roadside assistance or emergency services?
If the vehicle is safe and there are no injuries, roadside assistance is usually the first step. Contact emergency services if anyone is injured or unsafe.
Can car insurance include roadside assistance?
Some policies may include roadside assistance or emergency support services depending on the level of cover selected.
What causes most highway breakdowns?
Battery failures, tyre problems, overheating and poor vehicle maintenance are among the most common causes.
How can I reduce the risk of breaking down?
Regular servicing, tyre inspections, battery checks and fluid monitoring may help reduce breakdown risks significantly.
No driver expects their car to break down on the highway, but preparation and quick thinking can help keep everyone safer when unexpected situations happen.
Staying calm, prioritising safety and understanding your emergency support options may help make stressful roadside incidents easier to manage.
Combined with regular maintenance and the right car insurance cover, these simple precautions can help give drivers greater peace of mind on South African roads.
