Breakdown in the left lane: Be careful when changing lanes

Created: 08/08/2022, 14:23

By: Simon Mones

A breakdown in the left lane can be dangerous.

It is therefore important to behave correctly when changing lanes and the like.

A breakdown on the freeway is probably an absolute nightmare scenario for most drivers.

In the best case, you are on the right lane, so you can save yourself on the hard shoulder.

With the right behavior, the breakdown can then be easily mastered.

But what if you suddenly get stuck on the left lane?

In this case, too, it is important to behave correctly.

But how?

"As soon as the driver realizes that something is wrong with the vehicle, you have to switch on the hazard warning lights and try to stop on the hard shoulder or at the next bus stop," says Achmed Leser, accident expert from TÜV Thüringen of the German press Agency (dpa).

In the event of a breakdown in the left lane, occupants should seek safety between the central barriers.

(Iconic image) © MiS/Imago

Breakdown in the left lane: Be careful when changing lanes

If the vehicle is driving, it is advisable to head for the next exit or the next parking lot.

If you want to switch to the hard shoulder because of an impending breakdown, you should be particularly careful.

"Because the other vehicles are running into the broken-down vehicle at an excess of speed, extreme caution is required when changing lanes on the hard shoulder," emphasizes Leser.

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But what if the vehicle comes to a standstill in the left lane and it is no longer possible to save yourself on the hard shoulder?

In this case, the expert advises to keep as close as possible to the central barrier.

The occupants should exit the car from the driver's side and walk away from the vehicle in the direction of travel.

Breakdown in the left lane: do not cross the motorway on foot

If possible, they should then seek protection between the central crash barriers.

However, after a breakdown in the left lane, you should never try to cross the lane on foot - this is extremely dangerous.

Instead, stick to a few simple guidelines:

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• Turn on the hazard lights.

• Put on a safety vest before exiting the vehicle.

• All occupants must leave the car immediately and, if possible, get to safety behind the crash barrier.

• Make an emergency call or inform the police!

  This then also organizes a speedy recovery of the vehicle.

• Set up a warning triangle or warning light.

  However, self-protection comes first, so drivers should not risk their lives.

  In the event of a breakdown in the left lane in particular, depending on the situation, it is necessary to weigh up whether it is possible to run back between the central barriers.

  However, securing the accident or breakdown site is mandatory.