What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down on the Tay Road Bridge

Staying Safe on the Tay Road Bridge

The Tay Road Bridge connects Dundee City to Fife and carries thousands of vehicles daily. If your car breaks down mid-crossing, it can be a frightening experience — but staying calm and following the right steps will keep you safe until emergency towing arrives.

Immediate Steps to Take

• Switch on your hazard lights immediately — do this before anything else.
• Move as far left as possible — the bridge has an emergency lane on the outer edges.
• Call the bridge control room at 01382 229289 — they can alert traffic management instantly.
• Call a trusted towing company in Dundee such as Discovery Towing on 01382 797941 for rapid roadside recovery.
• Stay in your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened if it's safe to do so. The bridge is exposed to high winds and passing HGVs.

Why You Need a Local Towing Service

The Tay Road Bridge is managed jointly by Dundee City Council and Fife Council. Only authorised towing and roadside recovery operators are permitted on the structure. Discovery Towing has experience dealing with bridge breakdowns in the Dundee and Tayside area and works closely with bridge management to ensure safe, swift vehicle recovery.

Prevent Bridge Breakdowns Before They Happen

Regular vehicle servicing reduces your risk significantly. Check tyre pressures, coolant levels, and battery health before long journeys — especially in harsh Scottish winters. If your vehicle shows any warning lights, don't attempt the bridge crossing; pull over in Dundee or Newport and call for roadside assistance in Tayside before proceeding.

Discovery Towing provides 24/7 emergency towing in Dundee, Angus, and across the Tayside region. One call gets help on the way.