How do you deal with a truck breakdown in the Netherlands?
Friday 1 November 2024
The roadside assistance is expected to help with 1.3 to 1.4 million breakdowns this year, averaging more than 3,000 daily incidents, sometimes reaching up to 10,000! A breakdown is never pleasant, whether you're the first or the 5,000th person to experience it. You want to get your truck back on the road quickly. Being well-prepared is half the battle. Here are some tips on what to do and what not to do in case of a breakdown.
4 Do’s when experiencing a truck breakdown
Be prepared on the road
Preventing your truck from breaking down can save you a lot of trouble. While breakdowns due to wear and tear are not always avoidable, regular maintenance checks and inspections can significantly reduce the chances.
Use the warning triangle
If you come to a stop on the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights to alert other road users. Once you're safely off the road, place the warning triangle safely from your truck (at least 30 meters in urban areas and 100 meters on the highway). For your safety, wear a safety vest to ensure you're visible to other traffic.
Contact your company or emergency services
Don’t call your best friend first; immediately inform your employer of the situation. Then contact emergency services to provide information about your location and the reason for the breakdown. Extra tip: make sure your phone is well-charged beforehand, so you are always reachable in emergencies. Keep important numbers handy, so you know who to call.
Stay by your truck
Only exit your truck if it is safe to do so. Once safely out, stay on the safe side of the road, which means behind the guardrail if there is one. This protects you from passing traffic.
3 Don’ts When Experiencing a Truck Breakdown
Don’t stay in the truck if it's unsafe
Don’t remain in your truck if it's in a dangerous spot, such as a busy highway. Another vehicle might collide with your truck while you're still in it. Always stay safely by the roadside, behind the guardrail.
Don’t perform repairs without proper knowledge
Don’t attempt major repairs by the roadside, especially if you lack the proper knowledge or tools. This can be dangerous and might worsen your situation. Call emergency services for assistance.
Don’t ignore safety measures
Don’t forget to place the warning triangle or wear your safety vest. In countries like France, it’s mandatory to wear a safety vest when stopped by the roadside.
Many safety measures might seem obvious, but a breakdown can be dangerous and costly. Always prioritize your safety and follow the rules.