I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta? Here’s what to do.
An I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta can be stressful when traffic is moving fast around you. Flat tire, dead battery, overheating engine, or an empty tank, your first job is getting yourself and your passengers somewhere safe.
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What to do after an I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta
Stay calm and get out of traffic. Avoid sudden movements and work through these steps in order.
- 1
Steer to the shoulder
If your vehicle can still move, carefully steer toward the shoulder or another safe area, as far from the travel lanes as possible.
- 2
Turn on your hazard lights
Hazards make your vehicle visible to drivers approaching at highway speed.
- 3
Keep your seat belt on
If you can’t move the vehicle, stay inside with your belt fastened when that’s safer than standing near traffic.
- 4
Don’t repair in a live lane
I-75 and I-85 carry heavy traffic. Working beside moving vehicles puts you at serious risk.
- 5
Call for roadside assistance
Once you’re in a safer position, contact a roadside assistance or towing provider and explain exactly what happened.
What to tell dispatch after an I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta
Clear details help the towing company know where you are and what equipment you need.
- Your location or nearest exit
- Direction of travel (northbound, southbound)
- Whether you’re on I-75 or I-85
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- The type of problem you’re having
- Whether your vehicle is blocking traffic
- Whether anyone needs immediate help
Your exact location matters
Give the nearest exit, cross street, mile marker, or a recognizable landmark, plus your direction of travel. Not sure where you are? Georgia 511 shows live interstate conditions and exits.
Common I-75 and I-85 breakdown problems in Atlanta
Most I-75 and I-85 breakdown calls in Atlanta fall into a handful of categories. Here’s what each one usually means.
Flat tires
A puncture, damaged tire, or loss of pressure can happen without warning. If you can’t safely change it yourself, roadside assistance can get you rolling or arrange a tow.
Dead batteries
A car that won’t start may simply have a discharged battery. A roadside technician can assess it and jump start it when appropriate.
Overheating
Temperature light on or steam from the engine? Pull over as safely as possible and shut the vehicle off. Driving on can cause more engine damage.
Running out of fuel
An empty tank can leave you stranded in heavy traffic. Emergency fuel delivery can give you enough to reach a nearby gas station.
Vehicle won’t start
It could be electrical, battery, starter, fuel, or mechanical. If it can’t be fixed on the spot, towing may be the safest option.
Can’t be driven
When the vehicle isn’t safe to drive after a breakdown, light-duty towing gets it, and you, off the interstate.
Don’t stand near moving traffic
It’s one of the biggest mistakes drivers make after an interstate breakdown. Stay away from active travel lanes and avoid repairs where passing vehicles could strike you. If you need to exit the vehicle, use your best judgment based on traffic and conditions. Your safety matters more than saving a few minutes on a roadside fix.
Need towing after an I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta?
If your vehicle can’t be safely driven, Justy Towing and Recovery provides light-duty towing and roadside assistance across our Atlanta service area, 24 hours a day. Call to speak with a dispatcher and explain your situation.
(470) 977-3569 Call dispatch nowI-75 and I-85 breakdown FAQs for Atlanta drivers
What should I do if my car breaks down on I-75 in Atlanta?
Move your vehicle to the shoulder if you can do so safely, turn on your hazard lights, remain in a safe location, and contact roadside assistance or a towing company.
What should I do if my vehicle breaks down on I-85?
Move away from active traffic if possible and provide your exact location, direction of travel, and nearest exit or landmark when requesting assistance.
Can a tow truck help if my car won’t start?
Yes. A towing company can assess the situation and provide appropriate roadside assistance or tow the vehicle if it cannot be safely driven.
Can I get roadside assistance 24/7 in Atlanta?
Yes. Justy Towing and Recovery offers 24/7 towing and roadside assistance for Atlanta drivers.
What information should I provide when calling for a tow?
Provide your location, interstate, direction of travel, nearest exit or mile marker, vehicle information, and a description of the problem.
Get help safely after an I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta
An I-75 or I-85 breakdown in Atlanta doesn’t have to become a dangerous situation. Move away from traffic when it’s safe, use your hazard lights, and call a professional. You can also contact us for non-emergency questions.
Call Justy Towing: (470) 977-3569