Every roadside situation is different. A quiet parking lot is not the same as a live highway lane, and weather or visibility can quickly change what is safe.
1. Put Personal Safety Before the Vehicle
If anyone is injured, there is a fire, the vehicle is blocking traffic or the situation is dangerous, call 911. Follow instructions from police and emergency personnel.
Do not stand between vehicles, beside high-speed traffic or in the path where a vehicle could move. Avoid attempting repairs where you are exposed to traffic.
2. Make the Vehicle Easier to See
Use hazard lights when appropriate. At night or in poor weather, visibility is especially important. Do not place yourself in danger to set out warning equipment.
3. Identify Your Exact Location
Dispatch needs more than “I’m on the highway.” Look for the road name, direction of travel, nearest exit, kilometre marker, intersection, business or recognizable landmark.
Phone map applications can help identify a nearby address, but verify that the pin matches your actual side of the road.
4. Describe the Vehicle and the Problem
- Year, make, model and colour
- Whether the vehicle starts, rolls, steers and brakes
- Flat tires, wheel damage or visible collision damage
- Low-clearance parking, locked gates or restricted access
- Whether passengers, pets or cargo require special consideration
5. Keep Your Phone Available
The tow operator may call to confirm your position or access instructions. Conserve battery power, keep the ringer on and answer unfamiliar local calls while waiting.
6. Confirm the Towing Destination
Have the repair shop, residence, dealership or other destination address ready. Confirm business hours and after-hours drop-off instructions when possible.
Need towing or roadside help in Hamilton or Burlington? Call Universal Roadside Assistance at (905) 297-1500. Dispatch is open 24 hours.