Red routes and busy arterial roads don't allow stopping, which makes a breakdown both stressful and risky. The aim is to get yourself safe first, then get the vehicle moved quickly and legally. This guide covers what to do in the first minutes and how to describe your location so help can reach you quickly.
Get to the safest place you can
If the vehicle still has momentum, steer to the left, a side street or a bus lane only if it is safe to do so. Avoid stopping in a yellow box junction or on a crossing if you can help it.
Switch on your hazards
Put your hazard lights on straight away, and use the sidelights at night if the engine will not run. This is the single most useful thing you can do to warn other drivers.
Get out, if it is safe
On a busy road with moving traffic, passengers are usually safer outside and away from the vehicle, on a pavement or behind a barrier. Leave pets in the car if it is safe to do so.
Call us with exact location
Give a road name, nearest junction or a landmark. Dropping a pin on your phone map and reading out the postcode helps us arrive faster.
Don't try repairs in traffic
Even simple jobs like changing a wheel are not safe next to live traffic on a red route. Wait for professional help.
What we do when we arrive
We assess the vehicle, move it safely off the carriageway, and either repair it on the spot or recover it to a garage of your choice.
Common questions
Can I stop on a red route if my car breaks down?
Red route rules restrict stopping, but a genuine breakdown is treated differently. Move to the safest place you can, use hazards, and arrange recovery promptly.
Should I stay in the car on a busy road?
On roads with fast traffic, passengers are usually safer outside and well away from the vehicle, behind a barrier or on a verge if there is one.
How do I give my location accurately?
Use a road name, nearest junction or landmark. Dropping a pin on your phone and reading the postcode helps.
How long will recovery take on a red route?
Our typical response is 30–45 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.