Can You Call the Police If Your Car Breaks Down?

When your car breaks down, the immediate question often arises: Can you call the police? The answer, as with many things, is: it depends. However, there are specific scenarios where calling the police is advisable. This article explores the different situations where seeking police assistance may be necessary and outlines appropriate actions for each scenario.

When Calling the Police Is Not Always the Best Option

In many cases, such as a minor breakdown in a residential area, it is more appropriate to contact a roadside assistance service or a towing company. For instance, if you break down in the middle of a quiet suburbia, the best course of action is to contact the AA (Automobile Association), RAC (Royal Automobile Club), or Green Flag. These organizations specialize in providing roadside assistance and can address your needs more efficiently than the police.

When You Should Call the Police for a Car Breakdown

Roadways with No Hard Shoulder (MOTHS)

In this case, calling the police is not just advisable but crucial. For example, on smart motorways or all-lanes running motorways in the UK, where there is no hard shoulder, you run the risk of blocking traffic and being hit by other vehicles. If you find yourself in this situation, follow these steps:

Move as far to the left as possible and exit your vehicle on the near side of the road, navigating through the crash barrier if necessary. Dial 999 and provide an exact location to the emergency responder. The police will coordinate with Highways England to monitor your safety, helping set overhead matrix signs to close the lane, and dispatch officers to ensure your safety by coning off lanes, providing visibility, or towing you off the network to an emergency refuge area.

stranded in Live Lanes

If you are on a live lane (a motorway lane without a hard shoulder but with emergency access points), follow similar steps as described above. It is important to remain as safe as possible and provide accurate location details to the emergency services.

On the Hard Shoulder

For situations where there is a hard shoulder, calling the police may also be the best option. In the UK, you should:

Contact your rescue service. If you are not a member, call the police on 101. They will liaise with Highways England and arrange for recovery at your expense if necessary.

Calling the Police if Your Vehicle Is Causing Danger or Obstruction

It is essential to call the police if your vehicle is causing a significant danger or obstruction and you are unable to move it. Whenever you dial 999, specify that you need police assistance. Provide the next responder with complete and accurate details and follow any advice given by the emergency personnel.

To enhance safety, place a warning triangle on the road so that approaching vehicles can clearly see the hazard. Then, move to a safe distance to avoid accidents.

Conclusion

While calling the police for a car breakdown is not always necessary, there are specific situations where it is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. Always stay informed and prepared, and contact the appropriate emergency services based on your circumstances. Whether you choose roadside assistance, a towing company, or the police, your safety and that of others must always be the priority.