Car breakdown in a tunnel: what to do, step by step

If your car stops in a tunnel, switch on the hazard lights. If it can still move safely, reach a refuge or the right-hand edge; never reverse or turn around. Before leaving, put on a high-visibility vest, get passengers out on the safe side and follow the marked pedestrian route or use the SOS phone according to the tunnel signs.

If the car can still move

Stay calm, switch on the hazard lights and look for signs showing refuges and emergency exits. If the fault allows you to move a short distance without losing control, take the car to a lay-by or as far to the right as possible, without blocking a lane. Do not stop in a traffic lane to inspect the engine if you can reach a protected area.

On motorways, the Highway Code says a vehicle affected by a fault must be moved as soon as possible to the emergency lane or, if there is none, the first refuge in the direction of travel. In a tunnel, never reverse or make a U-turn to return to the entrance: these manoeuvres can cause a severe crash. Follow traffic lights, panels, arrows and operator instructions.

If you cannot move the vehicle

If the car will not move or has stopped in a lane, keep the hazard lights on and do not attempt repairs beside traffic. Put on the high-visibility vest before getting out. Let passengers leave on the side farthest from traffic only if it is safe, then use the marked pedestrian path to get away from the roadway.

Reach an SOS point or emergency exit and give your location clearly: the tunnel name, direction, lane and a visible marker. If there is smoke, fire, an injury or immediate danger, call 112 when you can and follow the operator's instructions. Do not cross lanes or stand in front of exit doors.

Warning triangle, help and what to avoid

Do not walk behind the car to place a warning triangle if traffic puts you at risk. On motorways, the Highway Code specifies when the warning sign must be used if a fault prevents reaching an emergency area. People come first. Follow tunnel equipment and staff instructions.

Do not try to tow the car with a rope, push it along the lane or go back for belongings. If it is a mechanical problem and everyone is safe, contact roadside assistance from an SOS point. If there is fire or someone is unwell, follow the tunnel emergency plan and staff guidance instead of improvising.

Prepare for the road with Quiz Patente Ufficiale: practise warning signs and driving rules in topic-based quizzes, then check your progress in a mock test and review each explanation.

For more detail, read May you walk along a motorway to reach an SOS phone?.

For another practical example, see Breakdown on a motorway: where to stop and when to use the emergency lane.