Car Breakdown: What to Do on the Road

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Car Breakdown: What to Do on the Road

A car breakdown can happen when you least expect it—on a busy highway, in the middle of town, or even in a remote area. Knowing what to do keeps you safe and helps you handle the situation with confidence. Here’s a step-by-step guide for Kenyan drivers on how to respond to a car breakdown.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Panic can make things worse. Take a deep breath and quickly evaluate what’s happening.

👉 Tip: Notice any warning signs such as unusual noises, smoke, dashboard lights, or loss of power.

2. Pull Over Safely

If possible, steer your car to the side of the road, away from traffic.

👉 Tip: Use your mirrors and indicators to move to a safe spot, preferably a lay-by or roadside shoulder.

3. Turn On Hazard Lights

Hazard lights alert other drivers that your vehicle is immobile.

👉 Tip: Switch them on immediately once you realize your car is breaking down.

4. Use Safety Equipment

Place a reflective warning triangle at least 30–50 meters behind your vehicle to warn approaching drivers.

👉 Tip: At night, use a reflective jacket or flashlight to increase visibility.

5. Stay Inside if Unsafe

If you are on a busy highway, it may be safer to remain inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on.

👉 Tip: Only step out if it’s safe and necessary.

6. Call for Help

Contact roadside assistance, a trusted mechanic, or towing service.

👉 Tip: Save the numbers of your mechanic, insurance roadside service, and local towing companies in your phone.

7. Inform Someone You Trust

Let a friend, family member, or colleague know where you are and what happened.

👉 Tip: Share your live location if possible, especially at night or in remote areas.

8. Do Basic Checks (If Safe)

If you have basic mechanical knowledge, you can check:

  • Battery terminals (if the car won’t start)
  • Tyres (if it’s a puncture)
  • Fuel level (sometimes it’s the simple things)

👉 Tip: Only attempt simple fixes. Don’t risk your safety on the roadside.

9. Avoid Accepting Help from Strangers

While some people mean well, not everyone is trustworthy.

👉 Tip: Politely decline and wait for professional assistance unless you’re absolutely sure it’s safe.

10. Prevent Future Breakdowns

Most breakdowns are preventable with proper car maintenance.

👉 Tip: Service your car regularly, check tyre pressure, and never ignore dashboard warning lights.

Final Thoughts

A car breakdown is stressful, but the way you handle it determines your safety and how quickly you get back on the road. By staying calm, visible, and prepared, you can turn a stressful experience into a manageable one.

👉 Pro Tip: Keep an emergency kit in your car with a first-aid box, flashlight, water, jumper cables, and a basic tool kit.

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