Roadside Safety
A breakdown is stressful no matter where it happens, but staying calm and following a clear plan keeps you safe and gets you help faster. Here's exactly what to do if your vehicle quits on you anywhere on Oahu.
1. Get off the road safely
If your vehicle is still moving, signal and ease onto the shoulder or into a parking lot — as far from traffic as you can. On freeways like the H-1 or H-2, get as far right as possible. Turn on your hazard lights immediately so other drivers can see you.
2. Stay with your vehicle — usually
In most cases the safest place is inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on, especially on a busy highway. Step out only if it's clearly safe, and always exit on the side away from traffic.
3. Make yourself visible
Raise your hood if it's safe to do so, and set out reflective triangles or flares if you have them. At night, keep your interior light on. Visibility prevents the most dangerous breakdown outcome — a second collision.
4. Call for help
Call a trusted local towing company and describe your location as precisely as you can — a mile marker, exit number, cross street or nearby landmark. On Oahu, naming the freeway direction (Ewa-bound or town-bound) helps your driver reach you faster.
5. Wait somewhere safe
While you wait, stay buckled in, keep your doors locked, and watch your mirrors. A professional operator will arrive, assess the situation, and load your vehicle safely.
Poorman 808 Roadside answers the phone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. One call gets a flatbed dispatched to your location anywhere on Oahu.