If it is safe, move left, use hazard lights, leave the vehicle from the passenger side, wait behind the barrier, and call motorway assistance or a recovery provider once you are safe.
Immediate safety checklist
- Indicate early and move left only if it is safe to do so.
- Switch on hazard lights and keep away from live traffic.
- Exit from the passenger side when possible.
- Wait behind the barrier or in the safest available place.
- Do not attempt repairs on the hard shoulder.
For motorway assistance, the M50 Motorway Traffic Control Centre number is commonly listed as 0818 715 100. If there is immediate danger or injury, contact emergency services.
What to tell recovery
Location
Nearest junction, direction of travel, overhead sign, Eircode if off the motorway, or visible landmark.
Vehicle
Registration, make/model, vehicle type, and whether it can roll or start.
Destination
Garage, home address, or safe drop-off point, plus any insurance or breakdown cover details.
What not to do
- Do not stand beside the vehicle on the hard shoulder.
- Do not push the car along the motorway.
- Do not walk into live lanes to place warning equipment.
- Do not wait inside the car unless staying outside is more dangerous.
After you are safe
Once you are away from traffic, arrange recovery and keep your phone available. ETA can change with traffic, incident response, junction access, and provider availability. For a broader estimate, read tow truck arrival times in Dublin.
If you are unsure whether a repair or tow is better, compare mechanic vs tow truck costs.
Get a tow quote before you commit.
Share pickup, destination, vehicle type, and access details so the request can be priced and routed clearly.
Request a tow