Vehicle Breakdowns
A breakdown can happen to anyone — a flat tire, overheating, or sudden loss of power.
Staying calm and following the right steps will help you stay safe and get help quickly.
Legal Essentials
- You must pull over safely and use hazard lights to warn other drivers. [1]
- You should not attempt risky repairs on the roadside, especially on busy roads. [1]
- It is an offence to leave your vehicle in a position that obstructs traffic. [2]
Good Practice
- Pull over safely — steer to the left side of the road or a safe shoulder.
- Switch on hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers.
- Use a warning triangle if available, placing it at least 50m behind your car.
- Stay inside if on a busy road. Keep seat belts fastened until help arrives.
- Call for assistance — tow truck, roadside service, or family/friends.
- Do not attempt risky repairs (like changing a tire) on a narrow or busy roadway.
Special Considerations
Flat Tires
A flat tire is the most common cause of a breakdown.
Follow the same basic safety steps — pull over, hazard lights, and a warning triangle — before deciding what to do next.
- On quiet roads: you may change the tire yourself if you have the right tools and it is safe.
- On busy roads or highways: stay in your vehicle and call for roadside assistance.
Exam Pointers
- You must know: drivers must warn others with hazard lights and warning triangles. [1]
- Expect questions like: “What should you do if your car breaks down on a highway?” → stay inside, belt fastened, call for help. [1]
- You should know: it is an offence to leave a vehicle obstructing traffic. [2]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first if my car breaks down on a busy road?
Signal, move to the left side or safest shoulder, and switch on your hazard lights immediately.
[1]
Do I always need to use a warning triangle?
Yes, if you have one — place it about 50m behind your vehicle. This is especially important at night or in poor visibility.
[1]
Is it safe to get out and change a tire on the highway?
No. On busy roads or highways, it is safer to stay in your vehicle with seat belts fastened and call for roadside assistance or a tow.
[1]
Who should I call if I break down?
If you are in a safe place, call a tow service or roadside assistance. If your vehicle is blocking traffic or in a dangerous spot, call the police (919) for help.
[2]
How can I stay safe while waiting for help?
Keep doors locked and windows up if you remain inside, especially at night. Be cautious if strangers stop, and only accept help from official roadside services or someone you trust. If you must stand outside, stay well off the roadway, behind a barrier if possible.
Can I be fined if my broken-down car blocks traffic?
Yes. Under the Road Traffic Act, section 48, it is an offence to cause an obstruction to traffic. Always use hazard lights and warning devices, and call for help quickly if your vehicle cannot be moved.
[2]
Can I change a flat tire myself?
Yes, if you are in a safe location away from traffic and have the right tools. On busy roads, highways, or if you feel unsafe, stay in the vehicle and call for roadside assistance instead.
[1]