What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on a Highway

1. Stay Calm and Don’t Panic

First and foremost, remain calm. Panicking could lead to poor decisions and increase the danger to you and other road users.

Take a deep breath, activate your hazard lights immediately, and prepare to pull over if possible.

2. Pull Over Safely

If your car is still moving:

• Gradually slow down.
• Signal and carefully steer to the right shoulder or a safe spot off the road.
• Avoid sharp braking—other drivers behind may not react in time.

Pro Tip: If you’re on a Nigerian expressway like Lagos-Ibadan or Lusaka’s Great East Road, always aim for the furthest distance from the active lanes.

3. Turn On Your Hazard Lights and Use Warning Devices

Once safely stopped:

• Keep your hazard lights flashing to alert oncoming traffic.
• Use a reflective triangle or place branches or stones behind your vehicle (especially at night or in low visibility).
• Place them at least 30 meters behind your car to give approaching vehicles enough reaction time.

4. Stay Inside the Vehicle (If Safe)

If you’re on a busy or high-speed highway, stay inside the car with your seatbelt on. Exiting can be more dangerous if traffic is fast or reckless.

However, if the area feels unsafe (e.g., isolated, poorly lit, or suspicious):

• Exit through the passenger side (away from traffic).
• Lock the doors and wait a safe distance away from the road.

5. Call for Help Immediately

Use your phone to call:

• A reliable roadside assistance service
• A mechanic you trust
• The police or road safety authorities (FRSC in Nigeria, RTSA in Zambia)
• Friends or family if no help is nearby

Always keep these emergency numbers saved in your phone and written in your glove compartment.

6. Don’t Try Complex Repairs Yourself

Unless it’s a minor issue (like a flat tire or disconnected battery cable), do not attempt repairs on a busy highway. You risk injury from passing vehicles.

For minor issues:

• Change tires only if you’re on a flat, safe surface.
• Check fluid levels if you suspect engine overheating.
• Inspect loose cables if the engine just suddenly shuts off.

Note: If you’re unfamiliar with car mechanics, it’s best to wait for professional help—even small errors can make things worse.

7. Communicate Your Location Clearly

When calling for help, be clear about your:

• Highway name
• Direction you’re headed (e.g., “En route Abuja from Lokoja”)
• Nearby landmarks or kilometre markers
• Description of your vehicle and license plate number

This helps responders locate you quickly and accurately.

8. Use Your Smartphone Smartly

While you wait:

• Check your car manual for possible quick-fix suggestions.
• Use Google Maps or WhatsApp live location to share your position.
• Search nearby mechanics or towing services using local directories or maps.

9. Watch for Strangers—but Be Cautious

It’s not uncommon for passersby or commercial drivers to stop and offer help, especially in African settings. While some are genuinely helpful, always:

• Keep valuables hidden
• Politely decline if you feel unsafe
• Avoid letting strangers into your car or giving them your keys

If help feels suspicious, wait for professionals or verified assistance.

10. After You’re Safe, Get a Full Diagnostic Check

Once your car is towed or running again, make sure to:

• Visit a qualified mechanic for full inspection
• Fix the root cause, not just the symptoms
• Review preventive maintenance steps to avoid future highway breakdowns

Emergency Checklist to Keep in Your Car

To prepare for any future incidents, keep these items in your trunk:

• Reflective warning triangles
• Jumper cables
• Portable battery pack
• Basic tool kit
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• Fire extinguisher
• Spare tire & jack
• Emergency contact list

Breaking down on a highway doesn’t have to be a nightmare if you follow the right steps. Your safety comes first—secure your vehicle, signal properly, stay alert, and get professional help as soon as possible.