What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on Calgary Roads

Let’s face it—car breakdowns never happen at the right time. Whether you’re stuck on Deer Foot Trail during rush hour or stranded on a snowy night in Calgary, the experience can be stressful. But don’t worry! We’ve got your back.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step what to do when your car breaks down on Calgary roads—so you stay safe, make the right calls, and get help quickly.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Pull Over Safely

The first and most important thing is to remain calm. Don’t panic. Your safety comes first.

Here’s what to do:

Signal right and slowly pull over to the shoulder or a safe spot.

Avoid stopping on curves, hills, or intersections if possible.

If on a highway like Stoney Trail, exit if there’s a nearby ramp.

Tip: Never stop in the middle lane unless your car dies completely. This is dangerous.

Step 2: Turn on Your Hazard Lights

As soon as you pull over, turn on your hazard lights (emergency flashers). This alerts other drivers that something is wrong and helps prevent accidents—especially during Calgary’s snowy or foggy weather.

If it’s nighttime, also consider using a flashlight or reflective triangle to make your car more visible.

Step 3: Assess the Situation (Without Taking Risks)

Now that you’re safely stopped:

Do a quick check: Do you smell smoke? See fluid leaking? Hear odd sounds?

Can you fix it yourself? (Only if it’s a minor issue like a flat tire and you’re in a safe area.)

If there’s any major issue or safety risk, stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on and wait for help.

Step 4: Call for Professional Help – KTC Towing Calgary

Whether you need a tow truck, battery boost, or flat tire change, the fastest way to solve the problem is to call a trusted local towing company in Calgary.

Call KTC Towing at [(587) 435-0770]
We’re available 24/7 across Calgary – rain, snow, or shine.

At KTC Towing, we provide:

Fast response times (typically within 30 minutes)

Flatbed towing for luxury, classic, or broken-down vehicles

Battery boosts, lockouts, fuel delivery & more

Affordable rates with no hidden fees

You don’t have to worry—we’ll handle everything so you can relax.

Step 5: Stay Inside the Vehicle (Unless Unsafe)

In most cases, it’s safer to stay inside your car—especially on busy Calgary roads or highways. Keep your seatbelt on, lock the doors, and wait patiently.

When to exit the car:

If you smell smoke or gas

If your car is in a dangerous position (e.g., on train tracks or in fast-moving traffic)

If instructed by emergency services

Always exit on the passenger side to avoid traffic and move away from the road.

Step 6: Use Emergency Equipment If You Have It

If you’ve got a roadside emergency kit—this is the time to use it.

Suggested items:

Reflective warning triangles

Flashlight with batteries

Jumper cables

First aid kit

Blanket (especially useful in Calgary winters)

These can help you stay safe while waiting for KTC Towing or other assistance.

Step 7: Inform Family or Friends

If you’re stuck alone, always let someone know:

Share your location (use Google Maps or iPhone location)

Tell them what happened

Let them know if KTC Towing is on the way

It’s good for peace of mind—yours and theirs.

Step 8: Don’t Accept Help from Strangers

It’s natural for people to want to help, but not everyone has good intentions.

Politely decline assistance from strangers.

It’s safer to rely on certified professionals like the team at KTC Towing—we’re licensed, insured, and trained to handle any situation across Calgary.