Experiencing a breakdown while towing a caravan can be daunting, especially for beginners. Knowing the correct procedures can ensure your safety and minimise stress. This guide provides step-by-step advice tailored to various UK road types, ensuring you're well-prepared for any situation.
Immediate Actions When Your Car Has Broken Down
Ensuring Safety First
As soon as your car has broken down, the first priority is to alert other road users. Activate your hazard warning lights immediately to increase visibility. If possible, find a safe stopping point such as a lay-by, hard shoulder, or emergency refuge area (ERA) on motorways. Stopping in an active lane should be avoided at all costs.
Once safely parked, all passengers should exit the vehicle from the passenger side, moving to a secure location away from traffic, preferably behind a barrier. If on a quieter road, placing a warning triangle at least 45 metres behind your vehicle will help warn other motorists. However, this should not be used on motorways where it could present a danger. Wearing high-visibility clothing further enhances safety, especially in low-light conditions.
Contacting Professional Assistance
When safe, contact your breakdown service provider, providing them with your exact location and details of the issue. If you are on a motorway and without mobile signal, the nearest emergency telephone should be used as it connects directly to the control centre.
Dealing with a Breakdown Without Cover
If you do not have a breakdown policy, you have several options:
Contact a Local Recovery Company: Many independent roadside recovery services operate across the UK. A quick online search or using a mapping app can help locate the nearest provider.
Use Pay-as-You-Go Breakdown Services: Some national breakdown providers offer one-off assistance for a fee. These services tend to be more expensive than pre-arranged cover.
Ask a Nearby Garage for Assistance: Local garages often have tow trucks and may be able to help recover your vehicle and caravan.
Request Help from Fellow Road Users: If you're in a low-traffic area, another motorist with the right equipment may be able to assist, but ensure it’s safe and legal before accepting help.
When Should the Police Be Notified?
There are circumstances where police involvement is necessary. If your vehicle is causing an obstruction or poses a danger to other road users, notifying the authorities is required. This is especially true if you break down in a live motorway lane without a hard shoulder, or if your caravan becomes detached, creating a hazard. In cases where recovery cannot be arranged promptly and the vehicle remains in a dangerous location, police assistance may be needed to manage traffic and ensure safety.
For emergencies, dial 999, while non-urgent situations can be reported via 101.
Essential Items to Keep in Your Vehicle
Preparation can significantly ease the stress of a breakdown. Ensure you carry:
A warning triangle (not for use on motorways)
High-visibility vests for all passengers
A torch with spare batteries
A mobile phone charger or power bank
Jump leads
A tow rope
A spare wheel and jack
A basic toolkit
Emergency contact details for breakdown services and recovery companies
Warm clothing and blankets
Drinking water and snacks
By understanding the correct procedures and being well-equipped, handling a breakdown while towing in the UK becomes a more manageable experience, ensuring both safety and efficiency in resolving the issue.
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