1. Get to a safer place if you can
If the vehicle is still moving, use its controls and follow road-safety guidance to reach a safe stopping place where possible. Switch on hazard lights when appropriate and follow instructions from emergency or road authorities.
Do not stand in a live lane or attempt repairs beside moving traffic. If anyone is injured or in immediate danger, call 112 or 999 before arranging a tow.
2. Note exactly where you are
A road name alone may not identify the pickup point. Share your direction of travel, nearest junction or exit, a nearby landmark, and any motorway marker or parking-area details you can safely see.
For Dublin Airport or a car park, include the terminal, entrance, level or bay information where available.
If you are unsure of the road name, use a map app only when you can do so without distraction or risk. A recognisable landmark and your direction of travel can help clarify the location during the call.
3. Describe the vehicle and the problem
Tell the recovery team the vehicle make and model, registration, what happened and whether it can roll, steer or be driven safely. Mention visible damage, warning lights, restricted access or other details that could affect loading.
Be specific about symptoms rather than trying to diagnose the fault. For example, explain whether the engine stopped while driving, whether it will not start, or whether a tyre or collision has made the car unsafe to move.
Mention if the vehicle is electric or hybrid, has low ground clearance, or has another handling requirement. Sharing this information early helps the provider discuss a suitable arrangement.
4. Discuss roadside help or towing
Some problems may be suitable for roadside assistance; others require the vehicle to be transported. The right option depends on the fault, vehicle and conditions at the scene. Describe what you can see and ask what service is being proposed.
Do not attempt a repair, battery connection or tyre change if you are unsure how to do it safely. If there is any doubt about the vehicle or your surroundings, stay in a safe place and follow advice from emergency services or road authorities.
5. Discuss the destination and next step
If you know where the vehicle should go, share the destination and any access restrictions there. Towing cost and arrangements depend on the vehicle, route, access and service required, so confirm the details directly before proceeding.
Ask what the proposed service includes, how the vehicle will be handled and whether anything about the pickup or drop-off could affect the arrangement. Confirm the price and key details directly before agreeing.
6. While you wait
Remain somewhere safe and follow instructions from emergency services, road staff or the recovery provider. Do not return to the vehicle or approach traffic if doing so would put you at risk.
Arrival time depends on location, traffic and current availability. Ask for an update when you call, and tell the provider if your location or circumstances change.
Before the vehicle is moved, make sure the agreed destination is accessible and that you have taken any belongings you need, if it is safe to do so.
Information to have ready
- Your exact location, direction of travel and a nearby landmark
- Vehicle make, model, registration and condition
- What happened and whether the vehicle can roll or steer
- Pickup access, destination and any time or height restrictions
- A safe contact number and any instructions already received
