A vehicle breakdown on the highway is stressful, but if you keep a clear head and follow these basic steps, you’ll likely be able to manage the situation successfully.

Head to the rightmost lane

If you suspect a problem or are unsure of your vehicle, move to the rightmost lane as soon as possible. This will allow you to get off the road in a hurry rather than being stranded in the middle of traffic.

Pull over

If the problem continues to worsen or as soon as you are certain something significant is wrong, get off the road. Park the car securely on the shoulder, put on the emergency brake and angle your wheels away from traffic. Keep your seatbelt on and have your passengers do the same. Do not exit the car until is it clearly safe to do so, and once you do, stay within sight of the car but away from traffic. Usually, it will be safest to stay in the car and buckled in.

Call for help

Call the police or roadside assistance. For this purpose, always have a functioning cell phone in the car or invest in a service such as OnStar. Whoever you call may be able to offer advice on what to do until they get there.

Do not attempt to repair the vehicle alone

Even simple, DIY problems, such as a flat tire, can be dangerous to manage on the side of a highway. At the very least, wait for an officer to help slow traffic while you make the necessary repairs. If it is anything more serious, wait for a professional.

Stay calm

In any emergency situation, staying calm is may be difficult, but it’s important. Remember that your situation is temporary, help is coming and your immediate priority is to keep yourself and any passengers safe.