Highways England Breakdown Campaign, Go Left

If you get into trouble on the motorway,
stay calm and exit at the next junction or
service area. If that’s not possible:

  • Put your LEFT indicator on
    and move into the LEFT lane.
  • Exit LEFT into an emergency
    area or onto the hard shoulder.
  • Put your hazards on.
  • Get behind a safety barrier where
    it is safe / possible to do so, and keep
    well away from moving traffic.
  • Call Highways England on 0300 123 5000
    then a breakdown provider for help.
    If you’re in a live lane and cannot safely
    leave your vehicle, keep your
    seatbelts and hazards on, and call 999.


Highways England – Background and campaign objective

Safety is our number one priority – any death on our roads is one too many. While our roads are amongst the safest in the world, we recognise there is always an opportunity to make journeys safer, easier and more reliable for users.

Highways England’s 2021 Breakdowns campaign aims to improve road users’ awareness and confidence around what to do in the event of a breakdown on a motorway, including those without a hard shoulder, helping people feel more capable and equipped should it happen to them.


To protect yourself and other drivers:

  • Stay within the speed limit and keep left unless you’re overtaking. This helps to keep you and other road users safe, and to keep traffic flowing as smoothly as possible.
  • Plan ahead. Check that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy, and that you have enough fuel for your journey. Remember to plan for breaks and don’t drive when you’re tired.

Keep the following items in the car if you can:

  • Warm clothes
  • Hi-vis jacket
  • A torch
  • An atlas or electronic map
  • Breakdown cover details

Make sure you have these items with you before you set off on a long journey:

  • Any medication you need
  • Charged mobile phone
  • Food and water