Emergency breakdown recovery is what you need when your vehicle stops somewhere it can’t stay – a busy road, a junction, a motorway or anywhere that puts you or other drivers at risk. This guide explains how it works and what to do.
What counts as an emergency breakdown?
- Breaking down on a busy main road, red route or motorway
- Breakdowns at junctions, roundabouts, bridges or in tunnels
- Accidents where the vehicle can’t be driven
- Breakdowns at night or in unsafe locations
- Situations involving children, elderly passengers or vulnerable people
If anyone is injured or in immediate danger, call 999 first.
Staying safe while you wait
- Switch on hazard lights and sidelights.
- On fast roads, get everyone out on the side away from traffic and wait behind the barrier.
- If you’re in a live lane and can’t get out safely, stay in the car, keep seatbelts on and call 999.
- Don’t attempt roadside repairs on a busy road.
Read our step-by-step guide: what to do if your car breaks down in London.
How emergency recovery works
- You call and give your location, vehicle details and the problem.
- The operator confirms a price and estimated arrival time.
- The recovery truck arrives and the driver assesses the vehicle and scene.
- The vehicle is loaded – usually onto a flatbed – and secured.
- It’s delivered to your home, garage or a workshop.
Emergency recovery vs roadside assistance
Roadside assistance aims to fix the car where it stands – a jump start or tyre change, for example. Recovery moves the car to somewhere it can be repaired. In London traffic, recovering the vehicle is often the safest and quickest option.
Recovering electric and automatic vehicles
Many EVs and automatics shouldn’t be towed with their driven wheels on the ground. Flatbed recovery avoids damage to motors and gearboxes.
After an accident
If your car has been in a collision, exchange details with other drivers, take photos and inform your insurer. The recovery company can take the car to your home, a bodyshop or a secure location while you arrange repairs.
What does emergency recovery cost?
Price depends on location, time of day, vehicle type and destination. See our guide to how much car breakdown recovery costs in London.
Choose a recovery company before you need one
Save the number of a reliable, local recovery company in your phone. Our guide on how to choose a reliable breakdown recovery company explains what to look for.
Frequently asked questions
What is emergency breakdown recovery?
It’s the recovery of a vehicle that has broken down or been damaged somewhere unsafe or inconvenient, such as a busy road or motorway, and moving it to a safe destination.
Should I call 999 or a recovery company?
If anyone is injured or in immediate danger – for example stranded in a live motorway lane – call 999 first. Otherwise, call a recovery company.
Can I get emergency recovery without breakdown cover?
Yes. Independent recovery companies provide one-off emergency recovery without a membership.
Need help now? Call Mehrev Automotive on 07366 051814 – 24/7 breakdown recovery, car transportation, engine rebuilding and car sales across London.