Key takeaways
- Move as far right as possible before stopping.
- Hazards on immediately; stay buckled until fully stopped.
- Stay in the vehicle unless the location is truly unsafe.
- Have your location, vehicle info, and problem ready for dispatch.
The first minute
Turn on hazards, ease off the accelerator, and coast to the right shoulder — or better, to an off-ramp or wide area. Stop as far right as possible with wheels turned toward the shoulder. Set the parking brake.
Deciding whether to exit
On a freeway shoulder, staying in the vehicle with your seatbelt fastened is usually safer than standing outside. Exit only if there's a fire, or a fuel or smoke smell — and then use the passenger side and get behind a guardrail if you can.
Calling for help
Have three things ready for dispatch: your exact location (freeway + nearest exit or mile marker, or a cross-street), your vehicle (year, make, model, color), and what's wrong. Clear info gets a truck rolling faster.
Frequently asked questions
How do I describe my freeway location?
Give the freeway (e.g. I-5 North), the last exit you passed, and any landmark. Most modern phones can share your exact GPS location with dispatch — we'll ask if it helps.
How long will I wait?
Typical Go Ape response times in San Diego County are 30–60 minutes depending on traffic and location. You'll get a live ETA the moment a technician is dispatched.