Your immediate priority is always safety. If you can, try to steer your vehicle to a safe location, such as the hard shoulder on a motorway, a lay-by, or a quiet side road. If moving the car isn't possible or safe, switch on your hazard warning lights immediately.
Once stopped, all occupants should exit the vehicle carefully, especially on busy roads. Move to a safe place away from the road and any traffic, ideally behind a safety barrier if one is available. Keep pets on a lead and with you.
The essentials
Signal for Help: Make Your Vehicle Visible
After ensuring everyone's safety, make your vehicle as visible as possible. In addition to hazard lights, if it's safe to do so and you have one, place a warning triangle at least 45 metres (about 147 feet) behind your car on the same side of the road. This isn't usually recommended on motorways due to the danger. If it's dark or visibility is poor, wearing a high-visibility jacket or vest can significantly improve your safety while you're outside the vehicle.
Assess the Situation (Briefly)
Take a moment to consider what might have happened. Did you hear an unusual noise? Is there smoke? Are any warning lights illuminated on your dashboard? This information can be helpful when you speak to your recovery provider, but don't put yourself in danger trying to diagnose a complex issue.
Contact Your Recovery Service
Now it's time to call for assistance. Have your exact location ready – a postcode or prominent landmark is ideal. If you're on a motorway, look for driver location signs on the verge or central reservation; these have unique numbers that help pinpoint your position. Explain the situation calmly and clearly. Black & White Recovery is a professional, fully-insured 24/7 service operating across the region. We're here to help recover cars, vans, and motorbikes, offering everything from jump starts to full accident recovery. It's always a good idea to save our number in your phone for peace of mind.
Wait Safely for Assistance
While you wait, stay in the safest possible location. If you're on a motorway hard shoulder, wait on the embankment behind the barrier, well away from the road. If you're on a quieter road, stay a safe distance from your vehicle and keep an eye on approaching traffic. Avoid trying to repair the vehicle yourself unless it's a very simple and safe fix, like a flat tyre in a very secure location. Your safety is paramount.
