What should you do if your car breaks down on the highway?

When your car breaks down on the highway, it is crucial for both your safety and the safety of others on the road to move your vehicle to a safe location. Moving the car to the shoulder is essential as it takes the vehicle out of the flow of traffic, significantly reducing the risk of an accident.

Turning on your hazard lights serves to alert other drivers that your vehicle is experiencing difficulties, making them more cautious as they approach. Setting up flares, if they are available, provides an additional visual signal, enhancing safety by warning other drivers of your situation well in advance. These actions collectively create a safer environment for both you and passing vehicles, allowing you to wait for assistance without being in immediate danger.

Choosing to leave the car in the middle of the road could result in severe accidents and jeopardize your safety as well as that of other drivers. Attempting to drive to the nearest exit might seem practical but could further damage your vehicle or create dangerous conditions if you're unable to do so. Calling for a tow truck without moving the vehicle would leave your car vulnerable in a potentially hazardous position on the road. Thus, the best course of action is to move the car to the shoulder, activate hazard lights, and set up flares.