A breakdown is bad enough in a parking lot. On a fast-moving DFW highway like US-75, the Dallas North Tollway, or the President George Bush Turnpike, it can be genuinely dangerous. The good news: a few calm steps keep you safe while help is on the way. Here’s what to do.
1. Get out of the travel lanes if you can
The moment you feel trouble — a flat, a stall, a warning light with a power drop — start moving right. Signal early and ease toward the shoulder or, better yet, an exit ramp or parking lot. The farther you are from live traffic, the safer you are. Don’t force it if the car won’t move; getting boxed in a moving lane is worse than stopping where you are.
2. Turn on your hazard lights
As soon as you slow down, switch on your hazards. At highway speeds, other drivers need every second of warning. Keep them on until help arrives.
3. Decide whether to stay in the car
On a narrow shoulder with traffic flying past, the safest place is usually buckled inside the vehicle, away from the traffic side. If you do need to get out:
- Exit on the side away from traffic — never step into a live lane.
- Stand well back from the road, behind a barrier if there’s one.
- Set out reflective triangles or flares 200 to 300 feet behind the car if you carry them.
4. Call for a tow
Once you’re safe, call 972-940-0060. Tell the operator:
- Your location — the highway, nearest exit or mile marker, and direction of travel.
- What’s wrong, as best you can tell (won’t start, flat, smoke, after a collision).
- The type of vehicle.
F5 Towing dispatches local operators across the DFW metroplex 24/7. If your vehicle can’t roll safely, ask about flatbed towing so it rides flat and protected. If it’s a quick fix — a dead battery, a flat tire, or running out of fuel — say so, and we’ll bring the right help.
5. Wait safely and confirm the truck
Stay where you are and keep your phone handy. When a truck arrives, confirm it’s F5 Towing before anyone hooks up your vehicle.
A breakdown doesn’t have to ruin your day
Stay calm, get clear of traffic, and make one call. We handle emergency towing and roadside assistance across Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, Richardson, Carrollton, Dallas, and the wider metroplex.
Stuck on a DFW highway right now? Call F5 Towing at 972-940-0060.