How to Handle RV Breakdowns on the Side of the Road (And Stay Safe!)
Nobody wants to think about their RV breaking down on I-75 between Cincinnati and Louisville, but let's be real – it happens to the best of us. Whether you're cruising through Kentucky's beautiful countryside or heading to Ohio's amazing state parks, mechanical issues don't care about your vacation plans.
The good news? With the right game plan, you can handle any roadside breakdown safely and get back to enjoying your adventure. Here's everything you need to know about staying safe when your home-on-wheels decides to take an unscheduled break.
Stay Calm and Think Fast
First things first – take a deep breath. I know it's easier said than done when your dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree, but panicking won't fix anything. The moment you notice something's wrong (weird noises, warning lights, loss of power), start looking for a safe place to pull over.
Don't wait for the problem to get worse. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is. Gently reduce your speed and start scanning for the safest possible spot to stop. You want somewhere flat, away from traffic, with enough space that you won't need to move your rig again.
Get Visible, Get Safe
Once you're stopped, your first job is making sure other drivers can see you. Turn on those hazard lights immediately – this isn't optional. But don't stop there. If you've got safety triangles, flares, or LED warning devices (and you should!), set them up about 100 feet behind your RV.
Here's where it gets tricky on busy highways like I-75. If you can't get completely off the roadway, you might be safer staying inside your RV with your seatbelt on rather than getting out. But if you can exit safely, use the passenger side door – away from traffic. Sometimes it's safer to have everyone exit the RV and move to a safe distance in case another vehicle strikes your rig.
Position yourself as far off the road as possible. Those shoulders on Kentucky and Ohio highways can be narrow, so use every inch you've got. If you're on a busy stretch, don't hesitate to call 911 if you feel you're creating a dangerous situation for yourself or other drivers.
Getting the Right Help
This is where having RV-specific roadside assistance really pays off. Regular AAA or your auto insurance roadside coverage? They're great for cars, but they won't cut it for your 35-foot motorhome. RV roadside assistance understands you need specialized towing, generator fuel, propane refills, and even hotel coverage if your rig needs overnight repairs.
When you call for help, have your exact location ready. Use your phone's GPS to share your location with both the roadside service and a trusted friend or family member. Most phones can share your exact coordinates – it's a lifesaver when you're stuck on a rural Kentucky backroad.
Don't rely on just one solution. While you're waiting for professional help, think about alternatives. Maybe you have a mechanically-inclined buddy who can talk you through a quick fix, or perhaps your RV manufacturer has a 24-hour support line. Sometimes a temporary solution can get you to safety while professional help is on the way.
What NOT to Do (This Could Save Your Life)
Let's talk about some dangerous mistakes people make during breakdowns:
Don't attempt major DIY repairs on the roadside, especially anything involving tires on larger RVs. These repairs can be dangerous and often make the problem worse. Leave it to the pros.
Don't accept help from strangers, no matter how friendly they seem. Politely decline and tell them help is already coming. If someone insists on "helping," that's a red flag.
Don't leave your RV unattended unless it's absolutely necessary for safety. Lock up and take your keys with you if you must step away.
Don't stand behind or in front of your RV while waiting for help. Other drivers might not see you, especially in poor weather or low light conditions common in Ohio winters.
While You Wait (Make the Best of It)
Waiting for roadside assistance can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on your location and the time of day. Here's how to stay safe and comfortable:
Keep your doors locked if you're in an unfamiliar area or if it's getting dark. Crack your windows for ventilation, but maintain security.
Monitor traffic around you. Stay alert to what's happening on the road. If conditions change or you notice drivers having trouble seeing you, call 911.
Conserve your phone battery. Turn on airplane mode to save power, but remember to turn it off when you need to make calls. Consider investing in a portable phone charger for your emergency kit.
If it's safe and you're completely off the roadway, this might actually be a great time to enjoy an impromptu snack break. After all, you've got everything you need right there in your RV!
Prevention: Your Best Defense
The best breakdown strategy is avoiding breakdowns altogether. Before heading out on I-75 or any Kentucky and Ohio adventure, do these quick checks:
Tires: Check pressure and look for wear. RV tires carry heavy loads and blow-outs are dangerous at highway speeds.
Fluids: Oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should all be topped off and clean.
Battery: Make sure connections are clean and tight. A dead battery in a rural area can ruin your whole trip.
Brakes: Listen for unusual noises and make sure they're responding properly.
Consider scheduling regular maintenance with experienced RV techs who understand the unique challenges of RV systems. At I75 RV, we see preventable breakdowns all the time – a little maintenance goes a long way.
Your Emergency Kit Essentials
Every RV should have a roadside emergency kit. Here's what to include:
Safety items: Reflective triangles, LED flares, high-vis safety vests
Tools: Multi-tool, adjustable wrench, tire pressure gauge
Emergency supplies: Flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit
Communication: Portable phone charger, emergency contact list
Comfort items: Bottled water, non-perishable snacks, blanket
Documentation: Insurance cards, roadside assistance info, RV manual
Your Stay-Safe Checklist
Here's your simple breakdown action plan. Print it out and keep it handy:
Immediate Actions:
☐ Stay calm and assess the situation
☐ Find the safest place to pull over
☐ Turn on hazard lights immediately
☐ Exit safely (passenger side if possible)
Safety Setup:
☐ Position RV as far from traffic as possible
☐ Set up warning triangles or flares 100 feet back
☐ Put on high-visibility clothing if available
☐ Share location with trusted contact
Getting Help:
☐ Call RV roadside assistance (not regular AAA)
☐ Call 911 if in danger or blocking traffic
☐ Don't accept help from strangers
☐ Stay with your RV unless unsafe
While Waiting:
☐ Keep doors locked in unfamiliar areas
☐ Monitor traffic and stay alert
☐ Conserve phone battery
☐ Stay hydrated and comfortable
Remember, breakdowns happen to everyone – even experienced RVers. The key is staying calm, prioritizing safety, and having a plan. With the right preparation and knowledge, you'll handle any roadside situation like a pro and get back to making memories on Ohio and Kentucky's beautiful roads.
Safe travels, and remember – if you need expert RV service when you're back home, the team at I75 RV is always here to help keep your adventures rolling smoothly!