An RV roadside breakdown is stressful in a way a regular car breakdown is not — you are often further from home, sometimes with family or pets aboard, and the vehicle itself needs different equipment than a standard tow truck carries. Knowing what to do and who to call makes a real difference in how smoothly it goes.
Immediate Steps During an RV Roadside Breakdown
- Move as far onto the shoulder as safely possible — RVs take up more space and are harder for other drivers to see and avoid
- Turn on hazard lights immediately, and set out reflective triangles if you have them and it is safe to do so
- Stay inside with everyone buckled unless there is a safety reason to exit
- Note your exact location — mile marker, exit number, or nearest cross street — before calling for help
Why RVs Need Different Towing Equipment
An RV’s size and weight mean a standard tow truck often cannot handle it safely. Heavy-duty wreckers rated for the RV’s specific weight class are typically required, and the technician needs to account for awnings, slide-outs, and other RV-specific features when securing the vehicle for transport.
What to Tell Dispatch When You Call
- The type and approximate weight of your RV (Class A, B, C, travel trailer, etc.)
- Whether it is drivable at all or completely disabled
- How many people (and pets) are with you, in case alternate transportation is needed
- Your exact location and which direction you were traveling
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a regular tow truck tow my RV?
Usually not for larger RVs — most require a heavy-duty wrecker rated for the vehicle’s weight class. Smaller travel trailers may be manageable with standard equipment.
What if my RV breaks down somewhere remote?
Stay with the vehicle if possible and call for help rather than attempting to walk to find assistance. Give dispatch as precise a location as you can using mile markers or GPS coordinates.
Should I try to keep driving if the RV seems okay?
If you noticed a warning sign like unusual noise, smoke, or a dashboard light, it is safer to pull over and have it checked rather than risk a more serious breakdown further down the road.
If you experience an RV roadside breakdown anywhere in St. Charles County, 24 Hour Towing St. Charles MO runs heavy-duty equipment ready for RVs and campers, 24/7. See our heavy-duty towing page or contact us at 636-736-0686. For general vehicle safety guidance, see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.