What to Do If Your Heavy-Duty Truck Breaks Down on the Road
What to Do If Your Heavy-Duty Truck Breaks Down on the Road
Posted on July 14, 2025
There’s nothing quite like the sinking feeling when your heavy-duty truck suddenly loses power in the middle of your route. Whether you’re hauling freight on Highway 402 or navigating the busy roads around London, ON, a breakdown is never convenient. But knowing what to do can save you time, money, and keep you safe until help arrives.
The roads around Strathroy are a lifeline for drivers moving goods across Ontario and beyond. It’s crucial to be ready for the unexpected because breakdowns can happen to even the best-maintained rigs.
Find a Safe Spot and Stay Visible
The moment you sense trouble—strange noises, loss of power, or warning lights—ease your truck safely onto the shoulder if possible. Try to park well away from traffic. Put your hazard lights on right away. On busy stretches like Highway 401, passing drivers must see your rig from a distance to avoid accidents.
If it’s dark or visibility is low, place warning triangles or flares around your truck. The legal requirement is to set one warning device 30 metres behind your truck, another 30 metres in front, and the third next to your truck. This makes sure anyone approaching can slow down in time.
Assess the Situation but Don’t Attempt Major Repairs
While it’s tempting to pop the hood and figure out what went wrong, keep safety in mind first. It’s fine to check gauges, look for leaks, or listen for obvious problems. But never crawl under the truck or start major repairs at the roadside, especially with fast-moving traffic nearby.
Instead, note any warning codes on your dashboard or symptoms you’ve noticed. This information will be useful for the technician who comes to help.
Call for Professional Help
When your truck breaks down, professional Heavy Truck Towing in Ontario is your best bet for getting back on the road. Reputable towing services have the equipment and know-how to handle heavy-duty rigs without causing further damage.
Let them know your exact location, what kind of load you’re carrying, and any obvious issues you’ve spotted. That way, they’ll arrive prepared to handle your specific situation.
Keep Calm and Think Safety First
Breakdowns are stressful, but staying calm goes a long way. Stay in your cab if it’s safe to do so, especially if you’re on a busy highway. Keep communication open with dispatch or your company. The sooner you report the problem, the quicker help can be arranged.
If you’re near Strathroy, consider grabbing a coffee or meal while you wait. Local spots like The Duke on Sydenham or Clock Tower Bistro offer a break from the stress while your truck is being taken care of. Breakdowns might be part of life on the road, but knowing what to do keeps you safe and helps minimize downtime. For support, advice, and reliable service, trust the experts at Metro Freightliner in Strathroy, ON.