Broken Down in Cornwall?

Your car has stopped. Maybe you're on the A30 near Launceston, stuck on a narrow lane near Bodmin, or stranded on a remote coastal road. Your heart's racing, traffic is building up behind you, and you're not sure what to do.

Take a breath. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do when your car breaks down in Cornwall, keeping you safe until help arrives.

Step 1: Get Safe Immediately (First 60 Seconds)

Your priority is your safety, not the car.

If You're on a Dual Carriageway or Major Road (A30, A38, A39)

1. Put your hazard lights on immediately

2. Don't panic - maintain control

3. Pull over to the hard shoulder or as far left as safely possible

4. If you can't reach the side, stop where you are and put hazards on

5. Turn your steering wheel left (if another vehicle hits you from behind, your car won't veer into traffic)
   

If You're on a Narrow Country Lane

Cornwall's rural roads present unique challenges:

1. Hazard lights on

2. Pull into the nearest passing place or gateway if possible

3. If stuck in the road, stay visible—hazards on, and someone should stand safely back to warn oncoming traffic if safe to do so

4. Don't block farm entrances unless it's your only safe option
   

If You're on a Hill

1. Apply the parking brake firmly

2. Put the car in first gear (or Park for automatics)

3. Turn wheels into the kerb if facing downhill

4. Use wheel chocks if you have them (see our emergency kit guide)
   

Step 2: Exit Your Vehicle Safely

Rule: Only get out if it's safe to do so.

When to Stay Inside Your Vehicle

Stay in the car with seatbelts on if:

• You're in fast-moving traffic and can't exit safely

• The hard shoulder is narrow with no refuge

• Weather conditions are dangerous

• You have children or vulnerable passengers
  

When to Get Out

Exit your vehicle if:

• You can safely get to a safe place (behind barrier, footpath, grass verge)

• You're on a blind corner or dangerous position

• There's risk of fire or dangerous fumes
  

How to Exit Safely

1. Check your mirrors - is traffic still approaching fast?

2. Put on a high-visibility jacket BEFORE opening the door

3. Exit through passenger-side doors if safer (away from traffic)

4. Help all passengers exit safely toward the safe side

5. Keep children and pets under close control

6. Don't leave valuables visible in the car
   

Where to Go Once Out

• Motorway/dual carriageway: Get behind the barrier or up the embankment, well away from the hard shoulder

• Single carriageway: Move to the verge or behind a hedge

• Country lane: Stand well back where you can be seen by approaching traffic, but away from the road
  

Never stand between your vehicle and oncoming traffic.

Step 3: Make Your Vehicle Visible

Once you're safe, make your vehicle as visible as possible:

1. Keep hazard lights on

2. Use your warning triangle if safe to place it:

   • 45 metres (roughly 50 paces) behind your vehicle

   • On the same side of the road

   • Only if you can place it safely without risk

   • Never use on motorways—too dangerous

3. Bonnet up signals you need help (traditional countryside signal)

4. Don't use your phone torch to flag down traffic - it's dangerous and ineffective
   

Step 4: Call for Help

Who to Call (In Order)

1. If You Have Breakdown Cover: Call your breakdown provider first—they'll coordinate recovery.

2. If You Don't Have Breakdown Cover: Call OL Reliable Recovery on 01566 700 439 for immediate 24/7 assistance across Cornwall.

3. In An Emergency (Serious Safety Risk): Call 999 if:

• Someone is injured

• You're in a dangerous position and can't move

• Another vehicle has hit your car

• There's a risk to other road users

4. To Report a Breakdown on Major Roads:

• Highways England: 0300 123 5000

• Or use roadside SOS phones on motorways (behind marker posts every 100m)
  

What Information to Have Ready

When you call for recovery, they'll need:

• Your exact location:

  • Road name/number (A30, B3254, etc.)

  • Nearest town or village

  • Junction numbers if on a major road

  • Direction you were traveling

  • Landmarks (pub names, farm names, etc.)

  • What3words location (download the app—it's invaluable in rural Cornwall)

• Vehicle details:

  • Make, model, and colour

  • Registration number

  • Type (car, van, etc.)

• Problem description:

  • What happened?

  • Can you start the engine?

  • Any warning lights?

  • Is it safe where you are?

• Contact details:

  • Your mobile number

  • Number of passengers

  • Any vulnerable passengers (children, elderly, disabled)
    

Cornwall-Specific Location Challenges

Mobile signal is patchy in rural Cornwall. If you can't make a call:

• Try texting (sometimes works when calls won't connect)

• Move to higher ground for better signal

• Flag down another driver to make the call for you

• Walk to the nearest house or business (only if safe to do so)
  

Pro tip: Download what3words app before you travel. It gives every 3m square in the world a unique three-word address. It's incredibly accurate and works with patchy signal.

Step 5: Stay Safe While Waiting

If You're Behind the Barrier or in a Safe Place

• Stay away from the vehicle and road

• Keep everyone together and calm, especially children

• Stay visible so recovery team can spot you

• Keep warm—wear extra layers if you have them

• Stay hydrated if you have water

• Don't wander off—tell someone if you need to move
  

If You're Stuck in the Vehicle

• Keep seatbelts on

• Keep hazards flashing

• Lock doors if you feel unsafe

• Don't accept lifts from strangers (unless you feel genuinely unsafe staying)

• Stay alert to approaching traffic
  

In Cold or Wet Weather

Winter breakdowns in Cornwall can be particularly challenging:

• Wear waterproof and warm clothing from your emergency kit

• Use blankets if you have them

• Keep moving to stay warm if outside

• Huddle together if with others

• Don't sit on cold ground—use a blanket or mat
  

With Children

• Keep them calm with reassurance

• Make it an adventure if they're young

• Keep them warm and dry

• Have snacks and drinks to hand

• Don't let them near the road under any circumstances
  

Step 6: When Recovery Arrives

What to Expect

Recovery vehicles (like OL Reliable's) will:

• Approach with caution and park safely

• Put on high-visibility gear

• Assess the situation and your vehicle

• Confirm where you want to go (home, garage, dealership)

• Load your vehicle safely

• Transport you and passengers if required
  

Information the Recovery Driver Needs

• Keys to your vehicle

• Locking wheel nut key if you have alloy wheels

• Description of the problem

• Destination address and postcode

• Your contact details
  

What You Can Take

• Take all valuables with you

• Remove important items (documents, electronics, personal belongings)

• Secure or remove loose items from inside the car
  

Cornwall-Specific Breakdown Challenges

Narrow Lanes and Tight Spaces

Recovery in rural Cornwall can be complex:

• Narrow lanes may require a smaller recovery vehicle

• Some properties are accessed via tight private roads

• Multi-point turns may be needed

• Recovery may take longer than urban areas
  

Good to know: OL Reliable Recovery knows Cornwall's roads intimately and has experience with challenging rural recoveries.

Limited Mobile Signal

Many areas have poor coverage:

• Bodmin Moor has extensive dead zones

• Between Holsworthy and Okehampton signal is patchy

• Rural areas around Callington, Liskeard, and inland from Bude
  

Solution: Use what3words, download offline maps before traveling, or carry a signal booster if you regularly drive remote routes.

Remote Locations

Some Cornwall locations are genuinely remote:

• Recovery times may be longer

• You might wait 45-90 minutes in very remote areas

• Limited facilities nearby
  

Preparation is key: Always carry emergency supplies (see our guide on essential items).

Tourist Season Delays

Summer breakdowns face additional challenges:

• Heavier traffic on A30 and coastal routes

• Longer recovery times due to congestion

• Busier garages with longer waiting times
  

Agricultural Vehicles and Obstacles

Rural Cornwall means sharing roads with farm vehicles:

• Tractors and harvesters can delay recovery access

• Livestock occasionally on roads

• Harvest season (August-October) creates additional delays
  

Common Breakdown Causes in Cornwall

Understanding common issues helps with prevention:

1. Battery Failure

Why common: Cold, damp coastal air accelerates battery deterioration
Prevention: Test battery annually, keep terminals clean

2. Flat Tyres

Why common: Rural roads have more debris, potholes, and sharp flints
Prevention: Check tyre condition weekly, maintain correct pressure

3. Overheating

Why common: Hilly terrain (especially around Bodmin, Tavistock routes)
Prevention: Regular coolant checks, service cooling system

4. Fuel Problems

Why common: Long distances between fuel stations in rural areas
Prevention: Keep tank above quarter-full, know your range

5. Electrical Faults

Why common: Salt spray corrosion near coast
Prevention: Regular servicing, clean engine bay occasionally

What to Do After Recovery

If Going to a Garage

• Ask for estimated repair time

• Get a written quote before authorizing work

• Check warranty status if applicable

• Arrange alternative transport if needed

If Going Home

• Book garage appointment as soon as possible

• Don't drive the vehicle until checked

• Keep recovery paperwork for insurance/warranty claims

• Review your breakdown cover (do you need it?)
  

Prevention: Reducing Breakdown Risk

The best breakdown is one that doesn't happen:

Regular Maintenance

• Annual MOT (legal requirement)

• Service per manufacturer schedule (typically every 12,000 miles or annually)

• Address warning lights immediately

• Check fluid levels monthly

• Test battery annually

Pre-Journey Checks

Before longer journeys, spend 5 minutes checking:

• Tyre pressures and condition

• Lights all working

• Screen wash level

• No warning lights on dashboard

• Adequate fuel

Emergency Kit

Keep these in your boot year-round:

• High-vis jacket

• Warning triangle

• First aid kit

• Torch

• Blanket

• Phone charger

• Screen wash

• Jump leads

• Emergency contact numbers
  

See our full guide: Essential Emergency Kit for Cornwall Drivers

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I wait for recovery in Cornwall?

Ol' Reliable Recovery typically arrives within 30-60 minutes across our 50-mile coverage area from Launceston. Remote locations or busy periods may take longer.

What if I break down at night?

Recovery services operate 24/7. Call immediately - don't wait until morning.
Ol' Reliable Recovery: 01566 700 439 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Can you recover any vehicle?

Most services recover cars, vans, and light commercial vehicles. Ol' Reliable Recovery handles all standard vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes.

What if I don't know exactly where I am?

Use what3words app, describe landmarks, check nearby road signs, or ask another driver. Recovery teams are experienced at finding people.

How much does recovery cost?

Costs vary by distance and circumstances. Call 01566 700 439 for a free quote. If you have breakdown cover, check your policy first.

Do I have to use a specific garage?

No—you can request recovery to any destination within the recovery area, including your home if it's a short distance.

What if my car is blocking traffic?

Stay safe and call for help immediately. In serious cases, call 999. Recovery services will prioritize dangerous situations.

Why Choose Ol' Reliable Recovery?

When you're stranded on a Cornwall road, you need:

✓ Fast response—typically 30-60 minutes across our coverage area
✓ 24/7 availability—breakdowns don't wait for business hours
✓ Local knowledge—we know Cornwall's roads and challenging recovery spots
✓ Professional service—friendly, experienced drivers who care
✓ Comprehensive coverage—50-mile radius from Launceston including Plymouth, Bodmin, Bude, Okehampton, and beyond
✓ All vehicle types—cars, vans, light commercial vehicles
✓ Fair pricing—no hidden fees, free quotes

Broken down right now? Call 01566 700 439 for immediate assistance.

Breaking down is stressful, but following these steps will keep you safe until help arrives. Remember:

1. Safety first—get yourself and passengers to a safe place

2. Make your vehicle visible—hazards and warning triangle

3. Call for help—don't try to fix it yourself on a busy road

4. Stay safe while waiting—behind barriers, away from traffic

5. Have your vehicle recovered professionally
   

Cornwall's beautiful roads demand respect. Whether you're dealing with narrow lanes, coastal weather, or remote locations, knowing what to do in a breakdown makes all the difference.

Keep this number in your phone now:
Ol' Reliable Recovery - 01566 700 439

About Ol' Reliable Recovery

We provide 24/7 vehicle recovery services across Launceston and surrounding areas within a 50-mile radius. We serve Plymouth, Tavistock, Okehampton, Bude, Holsworthy, Liskeard, Bodmin, Saltash, Wadebridge, Callington, St Austell, and Newquay.

Whether you need breakdown assistance, accident recovery, or vehicle transport, we guarantee fast, professional, and affordable service—any time, any day of the year.

Contact us: 01566 700 439 | Based in Launceston, Cornwall