There’s nothing more stressful than your vehicle breaking down in the middle of a drive. Whether it’s a flat tire, engine trouble, or something else entirely, roadside breakdowns can happen to anyone at any time. In such situations, your safety is the most important thing to keep in mind.
At Assured Emergency Services, we’ve seen it all when it comes to roadside emergencies, and we want you to stay safe while waiting for help to arrive. Follow these expert tips to protect yourself and your passengers during a breakdown.
1. Pull Over to a Safe Spot
The moment you sense trouble with your vehicle, your first priority is to get off the road. If possible, pull over to the shoulder or, even better, find a nearby exit to get out of traffic. Choose a spot that’s level and safe, away from sharp turns or bends where visibility might be limited.
Once you’re safely off the road, turn on your hazard lights immediately. This alerts other drivers to your situation and signals them to slow down as they pass.

2. Make Yourself Visible
Visibility is key when you’re stuck on the roadside, especially at night or in bad weather. After you’ve pulled over and turned on your hazard lights, consider adding extra visibility measures if it’s safe to exit the vehicle. Set up reflective triangles or road flares behind your car to warn oncoming traffic, particularly if you’re in a low-visibility area.
Remember, your safety is most important. If you feel unsafe getting out of the car, it’s better to stay inside and rely on your hazard lights until help arrives.
3. Call for Professional Help
Once you’re in a safe spot, the next step is to call for professional assistance. At Assured Emergency Services, we’re available 24/7 to respond to your roadside emergencies—whether you need a tow, jump-start, tire change, or any other roadside emergency. Call us immediately at 855-MICHTOW and provide details about your location and the nature of your breakdown.
It’s important to avoid flagging down other drivers for help. While it may seem like a quick solution, it’s always safer to rely on trained professionals who know how to manage roadside emergencies properly.

4. Stay Inside the Vehicle
Unless there’s an immediate threat, such as smoke or fire, staying inside your vehicle is often the safest option. The shoulder of a road, especially a highway, is still a dangerous place, with vehicles passing by at high speeds.
If you stay inside, keep your seatbelt on. This might sound strange, but your seatbelt can protect you in the event of a secondary collision, especially if a distracted driver veers toward your vehicle. Resist the urge to stand outside near traffic, as that increases your exposure to moving vehicles.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It’s important to stay calm and aware of your surroundings while waiting for help. Lock your doors and roll up your windows, especially if you’re in an unfamiliar or remote area. Be cautious about interacting with strangers who offer assistance. While most people mean well, it’s safer to wait for professional help from a reliable service like Assured Emergency Services.
If you’re waiting at night, keep the interior of your car dimly lit so that you remain visible without drawing unnecessary attention.

6. Prepare an Emergency Kit
One of the best things you can do to stay safe during a roadside breakdown is to be prepared. Having a well-stocked emergency kit in your car can make all the difference. Here are some essentials we recommend including:
- A first-aid kit
- A flashlight and extra batteries
- Reflective triangles or road flares
- A blanket for cold weather
- Non-perishable snacks and water
- A phone charger or portable power bank
- Basic tools like a tire jack and lug wrench
While you hope never to need these items, being prepared ensures that you’re ready for any situation.
Conclusion
Breaking down on the side of the road is never a pleasant experience, but staying safe should always be your top priority. By pulling over to a safe spot, making yourself visible, and calling for professional help, you can minimize risk and ensure a smooth recovery.
At Assured Emergency Services, we’re here for you 24/7 with reliable roadside assistance and towing services. If you ever find yourself in need of help, don’t hesitate to call us at 855-MICHTOW. We’ll get you back on the road as quickly and safely as possible.