The M50 circles Dublin and carries thousands of vehicles every day. If your car fails on this motorway, keeping calm and following a plan is essential for your safety and that of other drivers.
Immediate actions
Signal early and move to the hard shoulder. Park as far left as possible with your wheels turned away from traffic. Switch on hazard lights and, if visibility is poor, use your fog lights as well. Exit the vehicle on the passenger side and stand behind the barrier. The M50 has high-speed traffic, so never attempt repairs on the live lane.
Use one of the roadside emergency phones or call the Motorway Traffic Control Centre at 0818 715 100. They can deploy a recovery vehicle or Garda assistance if needed.
Arranging a tow
Once safe, contact a towing service. Provide exact details of your location, such as the nearest junction number or overhead sign. Response times on the M50 are usually quick, but peak-hour congestion may slow things down. To estimate how long you'll wait, read our guide on towing arrival times in Dublin.
Ensure you have the necessary paperwork. If you're unsure, check the list of documents needed for towing in Ireland.
Why you should know this
Quick, correct actions reduce the risk of secondary accidents and keep traffic flowing. Understanding the process also minimises stress during an already tense moment.
Practical tips
- Keep a high‑vis vest and warning triangle in the car—it's a legal requirement for emergencies.
- Store emergency numbers in your phone, including your insurer and a local tow company.
- Stay behind the barrier until help arrives; the hard shoulder is not a safe waiting area.
For more answers, visit our general Q&A page or check other guides.
Need immediate assistance? Request a tow here