Dave's Towing Services · Calgary, Alberta

Calgary roadside breakdown & collision safety checklist

A simple reference for drivers, businesses, and community groups. Roadside conditions change quickly. Your safety comes first; vehicle recovery comes second.

1. Get out of danger

If the vehicle can be safely moved, pull out of traffic to a safe location and turn on hazard lights.
Do not attempt repairs in a live traffic lane or stand between vehicles.
On fast roads such as Deerfoot Trail or Stoney Trail, stay clear of moving traffic and follow emergency responders' directions.
If there are injuries, fire, immediate danger, or a blocked high-speed lane, call 911.

2. Share an accurate location

Record the road name, direction of travel, nearest exit/intersection, and a visible landmark.
If safe, use your phone's map to copy a location pin.
Tell the dispatcher whether the vehicle is in a parkade, ditch, shoulder, roadway, or parking lot.
Explain access limits, height restrictions, or obstacles.

3. Know the service needed

Battery boost: A dead battery where the vehicle is otherwise safe to start.
Tire change: A flat tire where a safe workspace and usable spare are available.
Flatbed towing: Often appropriate for AWD, some EVs, lowered vehicles, and damaged cars; always follow the vehicle manufacturer's towing instructions.
Winching/recovery: A vehicle stuck in mud, snow, or a ditch that needs controlled recovery.

4. After a collision

Check for injuries and contact emergency services when required.
Exchange driver and insurance details when safe and legally appropriate.
Take photos only if it can be done without entering traffic or interfering with emergency responders.
Choose the repair shop or tow destination according to your needs and any insurer requirements.

Need towing or roadside assistance in Calgary?

Dave's Towing Services provides towing, recovery and roadside help in Calgary and surrounding communities. Tell us your location, vehicle type, and what happened.

Call 403-272-3944 Request service online

This general safety guide is not a substitute for emergency instructions, local law, your vehicle owner's manual, or professional roadside assessment. Share this page using its permanent URL: https://davestowing.ca/calgary-roadside-safety/