So you’ve broken down in your truck for the first time, and you’re not quite sure what to do.
(Or, maybe you’ve just bought your first truck and haven’t even considered what you might need to do if you break down.)
Whether it’s in a metro area, on a freeway, or a rural road, each situation has its challenges. Truck Assist, experts in specialist insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance for tradies across Australia, suggests three key breakdown tips—if it’s safe to do so:
Put your hazard lights on
The first might seem obvious, but it’s surprising how often its forgotten. Your hazard lights alert other road users that you’re in trouble or your vehicle has become a hazard.
Move aside
Pull onto the shoulder of the road in the direction of the traffic, as far to the left as possible. Depending on location it may be necessary to exit the vehicle using the passenger door to avoid passing traffic.
Warning triangles
The law in certain states stipulates that any vehicle or combination with a GVM greater than 12 tonne must be equipped with at least 3 portable warning triangles. However, it is widely accepted as best practice for all trucks over 4.5 GVM utilise safety triangles also.
The warning triangles should be used in situations where the vehicle has stopped, has broken down or the load has fallen onto the road.
A rule of thumb is to place the triangles two and a half times the posted speed limit (in metres) in an 80km/h or above speed limit zone, or twice the posted speed limit in metres in a speed zone below 80-km/h.
For example:
- 120 metres ahead and behind you on roads that are 60km/h
- 200 metres ahead and behind you on roads that are 80km/h
- 250 metres ahead and behind you on roads that are 100km/h
Triangles should be in front and behind the truck, in addition to one triangle placed beside the vehicle.
Get back on the road with Truck Assist
Once you’ve alerted other road users of your broken-down truck, contact your roadside assistance provider to help you get moving again.
Don’t have specialist insurance or roadside cover for your truck?
Try getting on the road faster with Truck Assist. Simple, no-nonsense truck insurance and roadside built for tradies on the go. The best part is – you can get a quote online from Australia’s truck insurance experts here, in just a few clicks.
Keen to know more? Hit up www.truckassist.com.au and get an online quote in minutes today.
*Limits and exclusions apply. This article contains general information only. When making decisions about our insurance, consider the PDS and TMD on https://truckassist.com.au/insurance/truck-insurance. National Transport Insurance is an equal joint venture administered on behalf of the insurers (CGU Insurance ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 & Vero Insurance ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859) by its manager NTI Limited ABN 84 000 746 109 AFSL 237246.