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Community Action

How to handle a highway breakdown or collision

Highways are great for getting where you want to go - unless you happen to be stranded on one. Vehicle breakdowns and collisions can occur when you least expect them to. Do you know what to do if your car breaks down, or your battery dies, or you get into a collision? Below is a list of handy tips to help prevent getting stranded and to help get you off the road as quickly and safely as possible if you do.


What to do if your vehicle breaks down

If your vehicle breaks down, do you know what to do? What information will you need to provide the road service operator or garage? We've compiled a list of some general guidelines to follow if your vehicle breaks down on a highway. Learn more or download CAA's Stranded Driver Tip Sheet to share with family and friends.

Read the tips

What to do if you are involved in a collision

Be prepared if your travels take an unexpected turn. Collisions can cause a lot of stress and confusion. With Winter driving conditions around the corner, be prepared, be cautious, be safe and follow our tips should you get involved in a collision.

Read the tips

Prevent a breakdown

Prevention is key to avoiding a vehicle break down. Be prepared, be cautious, be safe and follow this simple advice:

Check Your Vehicle

  • Service your vehicle on a regular basis.
  • Regularly do walk-around inspections of your vehicle.
  • Study your owner’s manual so you understand your dashboard warning lights.

Plan Ahead

  • Keep an emergency kit and other essentials in your vehicle
  • Get a detailed checklist of what you should carry in your vehicle
Get the list

Important Numbers


Police and Ambulance 911

CAA Insurance Claims Assistance
1-800-387-2656
24 hours a day, 365 days a year

CAA Roadside Assistance
1-800-222-4357
GTA 416-222-5222
Cell *222
24 hours a day, 365 days a year


Verisign Tico

© 2013 CAA South Central Ontario. All rights reserved. Serving Members in Southern and Central Ontario.
® CAA, CAA logo and CAA Dollars trademarks owned by, and use is granted by, the Canadian Automobile Association.
Life-side Assistance is a registered trademark of CAA South Central Ontario.