Breakdown towing
Breakdown Towing in East Gippsland: What to Do Before Help Arrives
Sensible, calm steps to take if your vehicle has broken down somewhere in East Gippsland — from staying safe on the shoulder to giving the tow operator what they need.
6 min read
First, get safe
East Gippsland roads cover everything from busy stretches of the Princes Highway to quiet rural lanes around Bruthen, Lindenow and the high country. If you have just broken down, the most important thing is to get yourself and any passengers to a safe spot before doing anything else.
- Pull as far left as you safely can — into a driveway, rest area or wide shoulder
- Turn the hazard lights on
- Put the vehicle in park or first gear with the handbrake firmly on
- Step out on the safer side, away from traffic
- If it's dark, stay visible — use a torch or your phone light
Mark your location clearly
Once you are safe, work out where you actually are. "Somewhere past Nicholson" is harder to find than a Google Maps drop pin or the nearest road sign. Open your phone's maps app, drop a pin and screenshot it — that gives Riviera Towing the fastest possible route to you.
If you have no signal, note the closest road name, distance to the last town, and any landmarks — a bridge, a roadhouse, a rest area, a kilometre marker on the highway.
Call early and share the basics
Riviera Towing is available 24 hours on 0424 966 333. The faster you call, the faster a tilt tray can be on the road. A few essentials make the dispatch quicker.
- Your location — pinned, or described against landmarks
- Make, model and rough condition of the vehicle
- Whether it still rolls and steers
- Where you'd like it taken — mechanic, home, dealer
- Whether anyone is hurt or in immediate danger (call 000 first if so)
Prepare the vehicle while you wait
If it's safe to do so, take a couple of small steps that make loading faster when the tilt tray arrives.
- Remove valuables and important documents
- Take a photo of the vehicle and the surrounding area
- If you have roof racks, trailers or loose items, mention them on the call
- Keep keys with you — the operator will need them at the drop-off
Long waits and rural breakdowns
East Gippsland is a big region. A breakdown out near Orbost, Omeo or a back road off the Great Alpine Road can take time to reach, especially in poor weather. Stay with the vehicle if it is safe to do so, keep your phone charged, and if you have water or warm clothes, use them. We will keep you updated on the ETA.
Frequently asked
Should I stay with my vehicle?+
If you are off the road and safe, yes — it makes the pickup faster. If your vehicle is in a dangerous position, get clear and wait somewhere safe nearby.
Can you tow from rural East Gippsland properties?+
Yes. Riviera Towing regularly collects vehicles from rural driveways, farms and back roads across East Gippsland. Share access details and gate codes on the call.
What if my insurer needs to organise the tow?+
Let your insurer know you'd prefer Riviera Towing on 0424 966 333 — they can usually note the preferred provider. You can also call us directly and sort the paperwork afterwards.