Breaking down at night is one of the most stressful situations a driver can face. Reduced visibility, fewer people around and the disorientation of an unfamiliar road in the dark all add to the danger. The steps you take in the first two minutes matter most — here's exactly what to do.
Broken down right now?
Tow Rite is available 24/7 including overnight. We'll get to you fast.
Immediate Steps — Do This First
Move off the road if possible
If the vehicle is still moving, steer to the left and pull as far off the road as you safely can — onto the verge, a side street, or a car park. Distance from moving traffic is your number one priority.
Hazard lights on immediately
Switch on your hazard lights the moment you realise you have a problem, even before you stop. They alert other drivers from a much greater distance than they might expect a stationary vehicle.
Stay inside the vehicle on fast roads
If you are on a freeway, dual carriageway or any fast road and the vehicle is not safely off the carriageway, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened. A stationary car is visible; a person standing on a dark road is not.
Turn on interior lights
Turn on your cabin light. It increases your vehicle's visibility to approaching drivers and makes you visible from outside without stepping out of the car.
Call for help
Once you're in a safe position, call Tow Rite on 0405 888 555. We're available 24/7 and will give you an estimated arrival time immediately.
Where Are You? How to Describe Your Location
When you call, we'll ask for your location. In the dark it's easy to lose track of exactly where you are. Here's how to help:
- → Open Google Maps and read us the address or drop a pin.
- → Note the last street sign, cross-street or suburb you passed.
- → On a freeway, look for green kilometre markers on the barrier walls.
- → Share your live location via SMS if you can.
Night Breakdown Safety — What NOT to Do
- ✕Do not stand behind or between vehicles and traffic
- ✕Do not attempt roadside repairs on a fast road in the dark
- ✕Do not accept a lift from strangers — call someone you know or wait for the tow truck
- ✕Do not leave your hazard lights off to 'save the battery' — visibility is far more important
- ✕Do not walk along a freeway to find help — stay with your vehicle
Does a Night Tow Cost More?
Under WA Department of Transport regulations, after-hours towing (typically after 6pm weekdays, all day on weekends and public holidays) attracts a regulated higher callout rate. This is a legal maximum — not an extra fee that operators can choose to add.
If you hold comprehensive car insurance, the after-hours rate is covered by your insurer at no cost to you. Tow Rite bills major insurers directly — just have your policy number ready when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to wait in my car if I break down at night in Perth?
In most situations, yes — if you can move the vehicle well off the road and your hazard lights are on. If you are on a freeway or fast road, stay inside with your seatbelt on. Never stand between your vehicle and moving traffic.
Does Tow Rite operate at night in Perth?
Yes. Tow Rite is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week including overnight, weekends and public holidays. Call 0405 888 555 at any time.
Will a night tow cost more than a daytime tow?
Yes — WA regulations allow a higher after-hours rate. If you're comprehensively insured, this is covered by your insurer. We'll confirm the rate and insurance position when you call.
Broken Down at Night? We're Here.
24/7 emergency towing across Perth. Fast response, upfront pricing.