What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on a Houston Highway
Breaking down on a busy Houston freeway like I-10, the 610 Loop, or Highway 59 is stressful — but staying calm and following the right steps keeps you safe until help arrives.
1. Get Off the Road Safely
If your vehicle is still drivable, move as far right as possible, ideally onto the shoulder or an exit ramp. Use your turn signal to alert other drivers before you slow down.
2. Turn On Your Hazard Lights
Hazard lights should go on the moment you suspect trouble — before you even pull over. This warns approaching traffic that your vehicle is moving slower or stopped.
3. Stay Inside the Vehicle When Possible
On high-speed roads, it's often safer to remain buckled inside your car with the doors locked than to stand outside near moving traffic. If you must exit, do so from the passenger side, away from traffic.
4. Set Up Visibility
- Place reflective triangles or flares behind your vehicle if you have them and it's safe to do so
- Keep your hazards on the entire time
- Turn on your dome light at night so responders can see you inside the car
5. Call for Towing or Roadside Assistance
Once you're safely positioned, call a towing company right away. Give a clear description of your location — nearest exit number, mile marker, or cross street — so a truck can reach you quickly.
6. Wait Safely
Stay alert to traffic around you and avoid standing between your car and moving lanes. If anything feels unsafe, move further from the roadway and call 911 in addition to your tow company.
Citywide Towing Services runs 24/7 emergency towing across Houston, including all major freeways and side streets. If you're stranded, call us and we'll get a truck moving your way.