How to deal with a truck breakdown on the road

12 April 2024

What should you do if your truck stops as a result of a technical fault?

A vehicle breakdown on the highway requires an immediate response.

1. Pull over to the side of the road and switch on your hazard lights to alert other road users of the breakdown.
2. If you need medical assistance - call for it as soon as possible. At such times, it is a good idea to have an emergency phone number written down in your contacts; the stress of the emergency may mean that you are unable to remember it quickly.
3. If the situation does not require medical attention, consider whether calling roadside assistance is necessary.
4. Remember to mark your stopping point appropriately. We suggest below how to do this.

How to properly signal your truck in case of roadside breakdown

Once a vehicle breakdown has occurred, it is extremely important that you signal the problem. Emergency lights will help to warn other road users, but that's not all. Remember to also place a warning triangle on the road. Signaling a breakdown is very important as it protects you from a possible accident. By doing so, you will ensure the safety of others and yourself.

How to set up the warning triangle

Marking the stopping point is extremely important. Place the warning triangle on the road at least 30 metres behind your vehicle. This will guarantee your visibility and safety.

Breakdown of a truck on a highway or motorway - how to call for help?

A truck breakdown on the motorway can be costly. Keep in mind that your insurer will help you get your vehicle towed away. It is a good idea to write down the emergency phone number. Call roadside assistance as soon as possible so that they can help you repair the breakdown or transport the truck. If you are a professional driver, inform your employer as well. A truck breakdown on the motorway can be costly. Keep in mind that your insurer will help you get your vehicle towed away. It is a good idea to write down the emergency phone number. Call roadside assistance as soon as possible so that they can help you repair the breakdown or transport the truck. If you are a professional driver, inform your employer as well.

Rules for towing on motorways and expressways

Towing a vehicle on a motorway or expressway is one of the tricky ones, so towers have to follow a number of rules to ensure the safety of every road user. Amongst other things, they are to keep an appropriate distance from other vehicles. They must also drive at a certain, limited speed, so remain calm if the whole process takes longer than you expected.

How much does it cost to tow a car off the highway?

Vehicle towing prices, depending on the countries, can vary. An important factor that influences the price of this service is also the distance the tow truck has to cover. Another factor is simply time. Depending on the company you use, the price will vary.

How can you best prevent a truck breakdown on the highway?

In order to protect yourself from possible complications, you will need regular maintenance and the changing of oil, filters, and other components. Also, remember to regularly check the condition of your tyres, but also the general condition of your vehicle. Also, remember to have your vehicle regularly inspected by specialists.

The most common causes of breakdown

Engine failure

Never underestimate a burning indicator light. It may indicate a serious engine failure. Such damage will require a stop and possibly lead to repairing the truck’s power unit - an expensive repair.

Tyre damage

A tyre failure on your vehicle can be a serious road safety hazard. If you notice that there is something wrong with your tyres, pull over to the side of the road as soon as possible and check the condition of all your tyres. If you notice damage, you must replace it immediately with a spare wheel or call roadside assistance.

Electrical system failure

Among the breakdowns, problems with the electrical system are very common. These include but are not limited to, starter malfunctions, problems with electrical cables or fuse damage.

Rules and procedures regarding truck breakdowns in European countries

Regardless of which European country you are working in, the rules you need to follow during a breakdown are similar. First and foremost, make sure you are safe. Remember not to endanger other road users. Another important thing is to signal the breakdown and call for roadside assistance. Once the breakdown has been repaired, check the truck thoroughly to make sure everything is in order. Remember to inform your employer of the whole incident.

See our other articles:

• https://www.247drive.com/blog/27/4-useful-apps-for-drivers-on-and-off-the-job
• https://www.247drive.com/blog/39/drivers-guide-how-to-use-the-time-on-the-road-to-your-advantage
• https://www.247drive.com/blog/41/what-are-the-responsibilities-of-a-truck-driver