Car Trouble at Night: Using a Torch Safely on the Roadside

A breakdown at night is stressful, and the biggest risk is being hit by passing traffic. Light helps you see, but visibility to others matters most.

First priorities

1. Get to a safe place if you can, such as a lay-by, wide verge or car park.
2. Switch on hazard lights.
3. Apply the handbrake and, if it's safe, switch off the engine.
4. Think about where to wait. On a busy road or motorway, guidance often advises waiting well away from traffic, for example behind a barrier, and calling for help. Follow local advice.

Being seen

• Hazard lights warn approaching drivers.
• A reflective jacket makes you visible from far away.
• A warning triangle, where required and safe to set up, gives extra notice.
• Light-coloured clothing helps if you have nothing reflective.

A torch helps you see, but a torch pointed at traffic can dazzle drivers, so use it carefully.

Using a torch on the roadside

• Point it down or at the task, never at oncoming vehicles.
• Hold it steady, low and away from the road.
• Use it for checking: a tyre, a fuel cap, a warning light, the boot.
• Use it to read a manual or find the spare-wheel kit.

Checking a tyre

If you have a puncture and it's safe to be out of the car, use the torch to inspect the tyre. Never work on a tyre on a busy road or soft ground. If you cannot do it safely, call for assistance.

What to keep in your car

Item	Why
A torch and spare batteries	light for checks
Reflective jacket	to be seen
Warning triangle	where required
First-aid kit	for injuries
Phone charger or power bank	to keep your phone alive
Water and a blanket	for a long wait

Your phone

Keep it charged and use the torch sparingly to save battery for calls. A quick-launch torch app helps you switch light on and off without wasting power.

Calling for help

Note your location, using road signs, markers or a map app, before calling. Stay away from moving traffic while you wait.

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