If your car breaks down on the highway at night, what is the first thing you should do?

When your car breaks down on the highway at night, the priority is to ensure your safety and the safety of other drivers. Parking the car completely off the road is crucial because it reduces the risk of being struck by another vehicle. This action creates a safe space where you can wait for assistance without being in the way of traffic.

Being fully off the road allows other drivers to pass safely and minimizes the likelihood of accidents. When it comes to the safety of individuals involved in a breakdown situation, creating distance from moving traffic is the first step in handling the emergency effectively.

Turning on the high-beam lights, while it may seem helpful for visibility, can actually reduce your visibility because high beams can glare and confuse oncoming drivers. Therefore, the focus should be on moving your vehicle completely off the roadway to ensure everyone's safety before considering other measures like signaling for help or using your vehicle's hazard lights for added visibility.