Driving and Roadside

Breakdowns and Emergencies

Preparing for and handling roadside problems and accidents.

Start here · Essential guide

A calm, step-by-step overview of what to do when a car stops working on the road, from getting off the traffic lane to deciding who to call for help.

5 min read

How to move off a fast road, decide whether to stay in the car or leave it, and wait for help with the lowest risk from passing traffic.

5 min read

Which items are worth keeping in a car for breakdowns and bad weather, why each one helps, and how to store and maintain the kit.

5 min read

What photographs, notes and details to gather after a collision so an insurance claim has a clear record, plus what to avoid saying and doing.

4 min read

A plain walkthrough of the usual stages of a car insurance claim, from reporting and assessment to repair or payout, and how the process can vary.

4 min read

How a tow typically works, the main kinds of tow trucks, what affects the cost, and the questions worth asking before you agree to a tow.

4 min read

What membership and policy-based breakdown cover typically includes, where it comes from, common limits to check and how to compare plans sensibly.

5 min read

Safe steps after a low-speed collision, which details to exchange, when to call police and how to notify your insurer without admitting fault.

4 min read

General steps after a vehicle theft, from confirming it was not towed to reporting it, contacting your insurer, plus habits that may lower the risk.

5 min read

A simple checklist of common reasons a car will not start, what the symptoms usually suggest, and when to stop and call a professional.

5 min read

More in driving and roadside

Everyday Driving Skills Habits and techniques for safer, calmer driving. Weather and Seasonal Driving Handling heat, cold, rain, snow and seasonal car prep.