Top 7 Mistakes Drivers Make During a Roadside Breakdown
Breaking down on the side of the road can be one of the most stressful experiences for any driver. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or sudden engine trouble, knowing what to do—and what not to do—can make all the difference in staying safe and preventing costly vehicle damage.
At D&G Towing Fresno, we’ve seen every kind of roadside emergency imaginable—from cars stranded on Highway 99 to breakdowns in residential neighborhoods. Many of these incidents could have been handled more safely with the right steps.
Below are the top seven mistakes drivers make during a roadside breakdown—and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Moving to a Safe Location
One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is stopping in an unsafe spot. If your car is still drivable, carefully move it to the shoulder, a nearby parking lot, or any area away from moving traffic. Parking on curves or intersections puts you at serious risk of being struck by oncoming vehicles.
If your vehicle stops suddenly on a highway, stay inside, keep your seatbelt fastened, and call for help immediately. Our local towing services in Fresno can reach you quickly and relocate your vehicle to safety. For more tips, check out How to Handle a Car Breakdown: A Step-by-Step Guide.
2. Forgetting to Use Hazard Lights
Your hazard lights are your first warning signal to other drivers. Turning them on immediately helps make your vehicle visible and alerts others of your situation. Many breakdown accidents occur simply because drivers forget this critical step.
If you have reflective cones or flares, place them several feet behind your vehicle—especially at night or in low-visibility conditions—to reduce the chance of collisions.
3. Trying to Fix the Car in a Dangerous Spot
Working on your vehicle while parked on a busy road is extremely dangerous. Even minor repairs like changing a flat or checking under the hood can expose you to fast-moving traffic. Instead, contact a professional towing team to move your car to a safer area first.
At D&G Towing, we provide 24/7 tire change services and jump start assistance. Our experts handle every roadside emergency with the right safety equipment and training.
You can also read Tire Blowout on the Road? Here’s How Towing Services Can Help for more safety insights.
4. Leaving the Vehicle Unattended
If you must leave your vehicle, make sure it’s secure—turn off the engine, engage the parking brake, and take your keys. Leaving your car unattended for too long could result in it being reported as abandoned or even towed by local authorities.
If you step away, always notify your towing provider of your exact location. That way, your vehicle recovery service team can reach you faster. Learn more in How to Recover Your Vehicle After an Accident in Fresno.
5. Not Calling a Professional Tow Service Right Away
Waiting too long to call for help can make things worse. A delay could increase your risk of an accident, further damage your vehicle, or even lead to theft. The best decision is to contact a licensed, insured towing company immediately.
D&G Towing Fresno offers fast, affordable towing services and vehicle recovery support across the city. We’re equipped to handle all emergencies efficiently.
Before your next trip, read The Most Common Reasons for Car Breakdowns and How to Prevent Them.
6. Accepting Help from Strangers
While some motorists genuinely want to help, it’s best to stay cautious. Accepting assistance from unverified individuals can put your safety or vehicle at risk. Always rely on a professional towing service that’s licensed and insured for complete peace of mind.
You can also check out Beware of Towing Scams to learn how to identify and avoid fraudulent towing operators.
7. Ignoring Preventive Maintenance
Most roadside breakdowns happen because of neglect—worn-out tires, low oil levels, or weak batteries. Regular vehicle checkups can prevent these issues before they happen. Before long drives, inspect your tires, fluids, and battery to reduce your chances of getting stranded.
For tips, visit Why Regular Vehicle Maintenance Is Essential to Prevent Breakdowns and stay one step ahead of emergencies.
Why Choose D&G Towing Fresno
At D&G Towing, we’re proud to provide comprehensive towing services, long-distance towing, and private property towing throughout Fresno and nearby areas.
Our team operates 24/7, ensuring prompt response, expert care, and complete customer satisfaction—whether you need emergency towing, fuel delivery, or lockout assistance.
Final Thoughts
A roadside breakdown doesn’t have to turn into a nightmare. By avoiding these common mistakes and calling a trusted Fresno towing company like D&G Towing, you can stay safe, protect your vehicle, and get back on the road fast.
Save our number: 559-458-5996
Contact Us Today for fast, reliable roadside assistance in Fresno, CA.
