What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down in Los Angeles

If your car breaks down while driving in Los Angeles, following the right steps can keep you safe and help you get back on the road quickly. Here’s a helpful guide covering safety precautions, calling a tow service, and staying calm until help arrives.

Safety Precautions

Stay Calm: Panicking can cause unsafe reactions like sudden braking or swerving. Take a deep breath to keep a clear head.

Pull Over Safely: Gradually slow down and use your turn signals to move to the right shoulder or the nearest safe spot away from traffic. On highways, try to reach the next exit or shoulder.

Turn on Hazard Lights: Once stopped, activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers that your vehicle is disabled.

Stay in Your Vehicle if Safe: If you have pulled over away from traffic, it’s generally safest to remain inside with your seatbelt fastened. If you cannot safely stay in the car (e.g., risk of being rear-ended or if you see smoke or flames), exit carefully on the side away from traffic and move to a safe distance.

Make Yourself Visible at Night: If it’s dark and safe to exit, place reflective triangles or road flares behind your vehicle to increase visibility.

Steps for Calling a Tow Service

Assess Your Situation: Determine if you can identify the problem (e.g., flat tire, out of gas, engine overheating). This info helps when you call for assistance.

Call for Help: Contact your roadside assistance provider if you have one (e.g., AAA at 1-800-400-4222 in Southern California). If not, call a reputable local towing company. Be ready to provide your exact location, vehicle details (make, model, color, license plate), and the nature of the problem.

Emergency Calls: If you feel unsafe or there is an immediate danger (fire, accident, unsafe area), call 911.

Prepare for Arrival: Keep your phone charged and stay in communication. Have your ID and membership card ready if applicable. Use any tracking tools provided by your roadside assistance to monitor the tow truck’s arrival.

Staying Calm and Protected Until Help Arrives

Stay Inside if Safe: Keep your doors locked and seatbelt on. Avoid standing near traffic or behind your vehicle.

Use Emergency Signals: If you have reflective triangles or flares, and it’s safe, set them up to warn other drivers.

Avoid Distractions: Stay off your phone except for communicating with help services. Focus on your surroundings and remain alert.

Keep Passengers Safe: Ensure everyone stays inside the vehicle or moves to a safe area away from traffic if you must exit.

By following these steps, drivers in Los Angeles can manage breakdowns safely and efficiently, minimizing risk and stress while waiting for assistance.