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Breakdown Safety
Stay safe when your vehicle fails
EmergenciesMedium Risk
A vehicle breakdown can happen anywhere. How you handle the situation - where you stop, how you alert others, and how you protect yourself - can prevent a minor inconvenience from becoming a tragedy.
Why This Matters
Stopped vehicles on or near roads are frequently struck by passing traffic. Proper procedures protect you, your passengers, and other road users.
Key Actions to Take
- Move completely off the road if possible
- Turn on hazard lights immediately
- Place warning triangle at least 50m behind vehicle
- Wear reflective vest if leaving vehicle
- Exit from the side away from traffic
- Stand behind a barrier if possible
- Call for assistance from a safe location
Do
- Keep a safety kit in your vehicle
- Know your location for emergency services
- Keep passengers away from traffic
- Leave the vehicle if staying inside is dangerous
Don't
- Attempt repairs in traffic lanes
- Stand between your car and traffic
- Walk on highways - wait behind barriers
- Ignore warning signs of mechanical trouble
Pro Tips
- Highway emergency phones are marked with arrow signs
- Some countries require two warning triangles
- Keep a charged phone and car charger always
Test your judgement
Reading about it is not the same as reacting to it. Try ten real questions.
Question 1 of 10
What does this inverted-triangle sign require you to do?
Practice Your Hazard Perception
Put your knowledge into practice with our interactive hazard perception training.
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Put your knowledge into practice with our interactive hazard perception training.
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