Accident or breakdown on the motorway: “You must get out of your vehicle”, warns Commander Gérard Cassen

In a panic, we can forget the right reflexes to adopt. Illustration Midi Libre – MiKAEL ANISSET

In the event of an accident or breakdown, knowing how to react quickly and effectively can make all the difference. Commander Cassen, from the Gallargues motorway platoon, shares his practical advice to protect yourself and avoid the worst on motorways and secondary roads.

Commander, what should we do in the event of an accident or breakdown on the highway to protect ourselves ?

Personal safety is the priority. Whether you are the victim of an accident or have broken down on the motorway, you must first stop, if possible on the hard shoulder or in a refuge area, if you have simply broken down. It is essential to activate your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers. Then, you must get out of your vehicle and take shelter behind the safety barrier, on the hard shoulder, regardless of the weather. Remember that you are in much more danger in your car than in the cold or rain. On the motorway, it is not recommended to use the warning triangle. This is exposing yourself unnecessarily to the dangers of fast traffic.

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A number to contact ?

You must dial 17 to alert emergency services. If you are near an emergency terminal at a shelter, it is preferable to use it. The gendarmerie will coordinate the emergency services.

What are the instructions on slower roads, such as departmental roads? ?

The procedure is similar. You pull over to the side of the road, away from the traffic lane. You must get out of your vehicle by putting on your safety vest, then place a warning triangle well in front of you, especially if you are in a low-visibility area such as a bend. Warnings and lights must be on, especially at night. The more elements there are to signal the vehicle, the better. And once again, you do not stay in your vehicle.