What To Do If Your Car Breaks Down on a Motorway in Ireland

A motorway breakdown can be stressful and dangerous, especially if it happens unexpectedly or at night. Knowing exactly what to do can keep you and your passengers safe while help is on the way.

Here’s what every driver in Ireland should do if their car breaks down on a motorway.

1. Get Off the Road Safely

If you notice a problem, try to leave the motorway at the next exit if possible. If you can’t make it, pull into the hard shoulder as far left as possible.

Turn your steering wheel left so the car points away from traffic in case it gets hit from behind.

2. Turn On Hazard Lights Immediately

Put on your hazard lights as soon as you realise there’s an issue. This warns other drivers that your vehicle is in difficulty.

3. Exit the Vehicle Safely

Everyone should leave the vehicle through the passenger side if possible and move behind the crash barrier or well away from traffic.

Never remain inside the car on a motorway hard shoulder unless it is absolutely unsafe to leave.

4. Use an Emergency Phone or Call for Help

Motorways have emergency roadside phones spaced along the route. These connect directly to motorway control services who know your exact location.

Alternatively, you can request roadside assistance using your mobile phone.

5. Request Roadside Assistance Quickly

The faster you arrange assistance, the quicker you can leave a dangerous roadside situation.

Using the RescueMe.ie app allows you to request help instantly, sending your live location to nearby recovery operators who can accept the job and head directly to you.

• ✔ Local recovery providers nearby
• ✔ Track arrival time
• ✔ Direct contact with assistance provider
• ✔ No annual subscription required

6. Stay Safe While Waiting

Remain behind the safety barrier and keep children and passengers away from traffic while waiting for help to arrive.

Avoid standing near the vehicle or attempting repairs yourself on a motorway.

Final Advice for Irish Drivers

Motorway breakdowns are rare but serious. Knowing what to do and having access to roadside assistance quickly can make a huge difference.

Keeping RescueMe.ie on your phone means you’re always one tap away from local recovery help anywhere in Ireland.

Drive safe, and always be prepared before your next journey. roadside assistance in Ireland