What to do when your vehicle breaks down

Updated October 21, 2026

Put people first. If there is an injury, fire, immediate danger or a vehicle stopped in a travel lane, call 911 and follow the dispatcher's instructions. A quote form is not an emergency service.

Make yourself visible and avoid traffic

Turn on your hazard lights. Move out of traffic only if the vehicle can be controlled and doing so is safe. Do not get out to push a vehicle in moving traffic or attempt a roadside repair beside passing vehicles.

Where to wait

If you are safely away from traffic and there is no immediate danger inside the vehicle, remain inside with your seat belt fastened while you arrange help. Conditions can change: tell the emergency dispatcher if there is smoke, fire, extreme heat, an injury or another threat.

If you must leave and can do so safely, use the side away from traffic and move well clear of both the road and vehicle. Never step into traffic. There is no single waiting place that is safest in every breakdown; follow emergency responders' directions for your location.

Describe your location clearly

• Road name and direction of travel.
• Nearest exit, mile marker, cross street or visible landmark.
• Whether you are in a lane, on a shoulder or in a parking lot.
• A map pin if you can safely share one; confirm which side of the road you are on.
• Any passengers or conditions that need urgent assistance.

Arrange the right help

Once immediate safety needs are addressed, call to discuss roadside assistance or a tow. Explain what happened, your vehicle's year, make and model, and your preferred destination. A description helps plan the response; it does not establish a mechanical diagnosis.

Ask about current availability, the estimated arrival time and the price. Keep your phone available for updates. If the situation becomes unsafe while you wait, contact emergency services.

When help arrives

Confirm that the operator is the company you called. Stay clear of the loading area and follow the operator's instructions. Do not release the parking brake, shift the vehicle or try to help load it unless the operator specifically directs you.

For TopNotch's current availability, call 918-986-2370. Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 7am–6pm; Wednesday 24 hours; Saturday 7am–1pm; closed Sunday. For a future, non-urgent pickup, request a quote.

Safety reference

AAA: How to Stay Safe in a Roadside Emergency. General guidance cannot assess the conditions at your location.