A breakdown on I-95 or I-16 is stressful, but a calm, ordered response keeps you safe and gets you rolling sooner. Here is a checklist you can follow from the cab.
1. Get to safety first
If you can, get completely onto the shoulder or take the next exit. Turn on your hazard flashers. Federal rules (49 CFR 392.22) require warning devices when a commercial vehicle is stopped on the traveled portion or shoulder of a highway: generally three reflective triangles, placed behind and ahead of the truck according to the regulation. Wear a high-visibility vest when you step out, and exit on the side away from traffic if possible.
If you are blocking a lane, in danger, or anyone is hurt, call 911.
2. Note your exact location
Roadside techs and wreckers need to find you. Write down the highway, direction of travel, nearest mile marker or exit number, and any landmark. Your phone's map app can share GPS coordinates. Around Savannah, I-95 exits are numbered by mile marker, which makes it easy to describe where you are.
3. Call your dispatch or fleet first
If you run for a carrier, they may have a preferred vendor, a national account, or a roadside program. Owner-operators should check whether their insurance or a roadside plan covers towing.
4. Decide: mobile repair or tow?
- Mobile mechanic — often a good fit for tires, air leaks, belts, batteries, sensors, fuel filters and many electrical issues.
- Heavy-duty tow — needed for major engine or drivetrain failure, accident damage, or when the truck can't be safely worked on at the roadside.
Browse mobile diesel mechanics and heavy-duty towing in the Savannah area.
5. Have this information ready when you call
- Location (highway, direction, mile marker)
- Year, make and model of tractor; engine make
- Trailer type and whether it's loaded (and if hazmat or reefer)
- Symptoms, warning lights and any fault codes
- How you'll pay, and whether you need a PO from your company
6. Ask before you agree
Ask for an estimate for the call-out, hourly rate and towing per mile, an approximate arrival time, and whether they take your payment method. Get it in writing (a text message is fine) when you can.
7. Protect your hours and your load
Log the breakdown as required under your hours-of-service rules, keep the reefer running if you can, and keep receipts for everything.