When your car suddenly breaks down, the best thing you can do is stay calm and find professional help immediately. The quickest and safest way to find help when your car breaks down unexpectedly is to contact a trusted towing company like Quokka Towing, who can get to you fast and handle your vehicle with care.
At Quokka Towing, we’ve helped countless drivers across the region through unexpected breakdowns, flat tyres, dead batteries, and accidents. With years of on-road experience and a commitment to safety, we know exactly what steps to take to keep you protected and get your vehicle moved securely.
Essential Steps to Take Immediately
- Always pull over to a safe spot and turn on hazard lights.
- Call a trusted towing company instead of random roadside help.
- Know what type of tow truck suits your vehicle.
- Keep your car maintained to avoid preventable breakdowns.
- Choose a local expert like Quokka Towing for reliable, 24/7 service.
What to Do Immediately After a Breakdown
Stay Calm and Ensure Safety First
The moment your car starts acting up or stalls, your first priority should be safety. Try to steer your vehicle to the side of the road, ideally onto the shoulder or a nearby parking area, away from moving traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers, especially in low visibility conditions such as rain or fog.
If you’re on a busy motorway or in a dark area, stay inside your car with the doors locked while waiting for help. Exiting your vehicle on an active road can be risky. Always assess your surroundings before stepping out.
Contact a Reliable Towing Company
Once you’re safe, the next step is to find help when your car breaks down unexpectedly. Avoid relying on strangers or unverified roadside helpers instead, contact a professional towing company. A trusted provider like Quokka Towing can ensure your vehicle is handled correctly and transported without further damage.
At Quokka Towing, we’re available 24/7, offering quick response times and dependable service across the local area. Our experienced drivers are fully equipped to deal with all kinds of breakdowns, from small cars to light commercial vehicles.
Stay Visible and Communicate Clearly
If you’ve managed to pull over safely, make sure you stay visible. Keep your hazard lights on, and if possible, place a reflective warning triangle a few metres behind your car. When you contact a towing company, be ready to share key details such as your location, the issue your vehicle is facing, and your vehicle type or model.
Understanding Tow Truck Options
Different situations call for different tow truck types. Knowing which one your car needs can prevent unnecessary damage and ensure efficient recovery.
Flatbed Tow Trucks
These are ideal for long-distance towing or vehicles with extensive damage. The entire car is lifted onto a flat platform, keeping all wheels off the ground – perfect for protecting vehicles with low clearance or expensive parts.
Wheel-Lift Tow Trucks
These trucks lift either the front or rear set of wheels, leaving the other set on the ground. They’re suitable for short-distance towing and are often used for small cars or vehicles parked in tight spaces.
Integrated Tow Trucks
These are heavy-duty options used for towing large vehicles, such as vans or small trucks. They combine power and precision, making them ideal for commercial towing and accident recovery.
When you call Quokka Towing, our team identifies the right tow truck based on your vehicle and situation, ensuring a smooth and safe transport every time.
Preventing Future Breakdowns
While not every breakdown can be avoided, many can be prevented with regular maintenance and care.
Schedule Routine Inspections
Regular servicing helps detect potential issues early from worn-out belts to battery weakness. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your car in top shape.
Check Fluids and Tyres
Engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels play a crucial role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Always check these before long trips. Also, make sure your tyres have proper tread and are inflated to the correct pressure.
Listen to Warning Signs
If your vehicle starts making unusual noises, vibrating, or showing warning lights, don’t ignore them. Addressing minor issues early can save you from being stranded on the road later.
Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
Store important contact numbers such as Quokka Towing in your phone or glovebox. This simple step ensures you can quickly find help when your car breaks down unexpectedly, without having to search online during an emergency.
Stay Prepared, Stay Calm, and Stay Safe
Breaking down on the road can be stressful, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can handle the situation safely and efficiently. From pulling over safely and calling for help, to knowing the difference between tow trucks and maintaining your vehicle regularly, every step you take helps prevent further damage and keeps you and others safe.
At Quokka Towing, we understand how unpredictable breakdowns can be — and we’re here to take the worry out of the process. Our local towing experts provide fast, reliable, and professional assistance across the region, ensuring your vehicle is in safe hands from the moment we arrive. Whether it’s a flat tyre, a dead battery, or a more serious mechanical fault, our team is ready to help you get back on the road with minimal fuss.
Need immediate assistance? Don’t wait – call Quokka Towing today for trusted, 24/7 support. We’re your local towing professionals who care about your safety, your time, and your peace of mind.