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Brakes, Tires & Safety

What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on a Texas Highway

Written by the certified mechanics at Elite Auto Repair Texas · 15+ years repairing cars across Texas

The short answer

If your car breaks down on a highway, turn on your hazards, steer onto the right shoulder as far as possible, and exit on the side away from traffic if safe. Stand behind a barrier, then call for help. Texas's Move Over law requires drivers to slow down for stopped vehicles with lights.

Mobile mechanic assisting a driver at night
Roadside assistance illustration.

Get off the travel lanes

Coast to the right shoulder or an exit. Avoid stopping on curves or bridges if possible.

Make yourself visible

Hazard lights on, interior lights at night, and a reflective triangle if you have one and it's safe.

Need this checked today?

Our mobile mechanics provide emergency roadside repair at your location — call 469-421-7910.

Stay safe while you wait

If there's a guardrail, wait behind it. If you can't exit safely, stay buckled in.

Who to call

Call 911 for any immediate danger. For repairs, a mobile mechanic can often fix batteries, belts, and minor issues roadside; many metro freeways also have courtesy patrol services.

Frequently asked questions

Should I try to fix it myself on the shoulder?

Only very simple tasks away from traffic. Changing a tire on the traffic side is risky.

Related guides

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