Broke Down on I-5, I-8 or I-15 in San Diego? What to Do Next

A car that loses power on I-5, I-8 or I-15 can feel dangerous, especially with traffic moving fast beside you. A few calm steps make the situation safer and help a tow truck find you sooner.

1. Get as far off the road as you safely can

If the car still rolls, signal and move to the right shoulder, an off-ramp, or past the end of a barrier where the shoulder is wider. Avoid stopping on a curve or just over a hill where drivers can’t see you. Turn on your hazard lights as soon as you notice a problem.

2. Decide whether to stay in the car

On a narrow shoulder with traffic close by, it’s often safer to stay buckled in. If you can get out away from traffic and stand well behind a guardrail, that can be safer. Never stand between your car and moving traffic. If you’re unsure or anyone is hurt, call 911 first.

3. Work out exactly where you are

Dispatchers need a precise location. Look for:

• The freeway and direction (for example, I-8 eastbound).

• The last exit you passed or the next exit sign.

• Small green mile marker posts on the shoulder.

• Nearby landmarks such as an overpass, a stadium, or a shopping center.

Sharing your phone’s location pin in a text also helps.

4. Call for a tow and describe the car

Tell the dispatcher the make, model and color, whether the car is all-wheel drive or electric, and whether it rolls or the wheels are locked. That helps decide if a flatbed is needed. Ask for an arrival estimate and keep your phone charged and nearby.

5. If there was a collision

Move to safety, check for injuries, and call 911 if anyone is hurt or the lanes are blocked. Exchange information with the other driver and take photos if it is safe. Then call for accident towing and tell the dispatcher where you’d like the car taken, such as your home, a body shop, or your insurer’s preferred shop.

Need a tow in San Diego?

Call Angelo’s Towing at (619) 702-8888. We dispatch from our yards across San Diego County 24/7.