Stormy weather and wet roads may be driving a surge in interest in roadside protection, with searches for ‘breakdown cover’ up 22% in the last three months.
Experts warn that while a breakdown policy is essential, it’s knowing exactly what to do when your vehicle stops that can make the biggest difference to safety.
Vertu Motors has released a four-step breakdown safety checklist to help drivers handle the situation effectively:
- Move somewhere safe – Pull onto the hard shoulder or into an Emergency Refuge Area if possible. If stuck in a live lane, keep seatbelts on, hazard lights flashing, and call 999.
- Stay visible – Switch on hazard warning lights immediately, and sidelights if visibility is poor. Avoid using warning triangles on motorways.
- Exit safely – Use the side away from passing traffic and stand behind the barrier if there is one. Wear high-visibility clothing if available.
- Give your exact location – Use what3words or motorway location signs. If you have no phone signal, use an emergency roadside phone.
For trainers, this is timely advice to pass on to learners, particularly as breakdowns can be a stressful first-time experience.
Vertu Motors’ guidance comes as more drivers take proactive steps to ensure they are prepared for unexpected roadside incidents.
