The AA and RAC together cover over 20 million motorists in the UK. If you're visiting, check whether your home breakdown cover extends to England — many European and American policies do. If not, consider temporary UK cover or ensure your rental includes roadside assistance.
Motorway Breakdown Procedure
- Indicators on — move left immediately to the hard shoulder or nearest ERA
- Stop as far left as possible — wheels turned towards the barrier
- Hazard lights on — sidelights too if visibility is poor
- Exit from the left — passengers leave via the left-hand doors, stand behind the barrier
- Call for help — use your breakdown provider, or National Highways on 0300 123 5000, or an SOS phone
- Do not attempt repairs on the carriageway or stand between your vehicle and traffic
On smart motorways without a hard shoulder, reach an Emergency Refuge Area if possible. If your vehicle stops in a live lane and you cannot move it, stay belted in, call 999, and wait for National Highways to close the lane.
A-Road & Rural Breakdowns
Pull off the road as far as possible. Use a lay-by or side road rather than stopping on the carriageway. On narrow country lanes, position the car where it causes least obstruction and use hazard triangles if you have them (not mandatory in the UK but helpful). Mobile signal is unreliable in the Lake District, Dartmoor, and parts of Cornwall — download offline maps and note SOS locations before remote drives.
Breakdown Cover Options
- AA or RAC membership — from £6/month; covers the member in any car
- Manufacturer assistance — new cars often include 1–3 years of free cover
- Credit card benefits — some premium cards include basic roadside assistance
- Rental car cover — included with most hire agreements; call the number on the windscreen sticker
What Happens During Recovery
A patrol or recovery truck typically arrives within 45–60 minutes on motorways, longer in remote areas. The mechanic will attempt a roadside fix (battery, tyre, fuel). If repair isn't possible, you'll be towed to a garage or your destination depending on your cover level. Keep your membership or rental details accessible — not in the boot of a locked car.
Key Takeaways
- Motorway: left lane, hazards on, exit left, behind the barrier
- Smart motorways: use ERAs; call 999 if stranded in a live lane
- Confirm your cover works in England before you travel
- Never repair a vehicle on the carriageway
