What to Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down on a California Highway in 2026

Stay Calm and Prioritize Safety

A vehicle breakdown on a California highway can be stressful, especially with fast-moving traffic and limited shoulder space. In 2026, highways are busier than ever, making highway breakdown towing services essential for staying safe and getting help quickly. Turn on your hazard lights immediately and remain calm.

If possible, slowly move your vehicle to the right shoulder or a designated emergency turnout. Avoid stopping in traffic lanes, curves, or low-visibility areas.

Move to a Safe Location if You Can

If your vehicle is still operational, even briefly, get as far off the roadway as possible. Wide shoulders, rest areas, or exits provide safer waiting areas than narrow highway shoulders.

If your vehicle cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened and hazard lights on. Exiting the vehicle on a busy highway can be extremely dangerous.

Make Yourself Visible

Visibility is critical when broken down on a highway. In addition to hazard lights:

  • Use reflective triangles or flares if you have them

  • Turn on interior lights at night

  • Avoid standing near traffic lanes

These steps help approaching drivers and emergency responders see you sooner, reducing the risk of secondary accidents.

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Assess the Problem — But Don’t Risk Repairs

While it may be tempting to diagnose the issue yourself, avoid attempting repairs on the side of a highway. Modern vehicles often require specialized tools and diagnostics, making roadside repairs impractical and risky.

Call a Professional Highway Breakdown Towing Company Immediately

The safest option when broken down on a California highway is to call a professional highway breakdown towing company with 24/7 availability. Anthony’s Towing & Transportation provides fast-response towing and roadside assistance throughout Northern California.

When calling dispatch, be ready to provide:

  • Your exact location or nearest mile marker

  • Direction of travel

  • Type of vehicle

  • Nature of the problem

Call (530) 419-9073 for immediate assistance

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Stay Inside Your Vehicle While You Wait

Unless in immediate danger, it’s safest to stay inside your vehicle while waiting for help. Highways are not designed for pedestrian safety, and standing outside puts you at risk from passing vehicles. Keep your phone charged and remain alert until the tow truck arrives.

Know Where Your Vehicle Will Be Towed

Before towing begins, confirm where your vehicle will be taken. A professional towing company can transport your vehicle to:

  • A repair shop of your choice

  • Your home

  • A secure storage or service facility

Anthony’s Towing also assists drivers who need help locating a towed vehicle, providing clarity during stressful situations.

Why Professional Highway Breakdown Towing Matters in 2026

With increased traffic, advanced vehicle technology, and stricter safety standards, professional towing is more important than ever. Anthony’s Towing & Transportation offers:

  • 24/7 emergency towing

  • Licensed and insured operators

  • Light-, medium-, and heavy-duty towing

  • RV, trailer, and commercial vehicle transport

With over 25 years of experience, our team is trained to handle roadside emergencies safely and efficiently.

Serving Northern California Drivers

Anthony’s Towing proudly serves drivers across Butte County, Sutter County, Sacramento County, Placer County, and Yolo County. Whether you’re commuting, hauling, or traveling long distance, help is always available.

Need Highway Breakdown Towing in California?

If your vehicle breaks down on a California highway, don’t wait or take unnecessary risks. Call Anthony’s Towing & Transportation at (530) 419-9073 for fast, professional highway breakdown towing — available 24/7.