Highway 15 is one of the busiest routes in the Belleville area. Whether you’re commuting to work, driving to a Cardinals game, or just passing through, breaking down on this stretch of highway can be stressful and even dangerous. Knowing what to do can make the situation safer and get you back on the road faster.
At Paule Towing, we specialize in emergency vehicle recovery and roadside assistance across Belleville and the surrounding areas. If your vehicle breaks down on Highway 15, follow these steps to protect yourself and get help fast.
1. Stay Calm and Stay Visible
The first thing to do when your car starts acting up is to remain calm. Turn on your hazard lights immediately to alert other drivers that something is wrong. If you’re able, slowly maneuver your car to the right shoulder or as far out of traffic as possible.
Tip: Avoid stopping on curves, hills, or near on-ramps and exits where visibility is limited.
2. Call for Help Right Away
If your vehicle is completely disabled or unsafe to drive, call a professional towing company that handles emergency vehicle recovery. Paule Towing is based right in Belleville and can quickly dispatch a tow truck to your exact location on Highway 15—whether you’re near Green Mount Road or close to Route 159.
Important: Do not attempt to fix your car on the side of the highway if traffic is moving fast around you. Leave that to trained professionals.
3. Stay Inside the Vehicle If It’s Safe
Unless there’s a risk of fire or a crash, it’s usually safest to remain inside your vehicle with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives. Exiting your vehicle on a busy highway can expose you to serious danger from passing traffic.
If you must get out—like if your car is smoking—exit from the passenger side and move away from the roadway, ideally behind a guardrail or barrier.
4. Share Your Exact Location
When calling Paule Towing or emergency services, try to give them as much detail as possible:
The direction you were heading (e.g., westbound toward Belleville)
The nearest mile marker, exit number, or cross street
Landmarks (e.g., near Memorial Hospital or St. Clair Square)
This helps our team locate you quickly and provide timely emergency vehicle recovery service without delay.
5. Use Roadside Assistance Options if Available
Some insurance policies or credit card companies offer roadside assistance as part of their coverage. If you have one of these programs, give them a call—but also remember that local companies like Paule Towing often respond faster and are more familiar with Belleville roads than national hotlines.
We’re fully equipped to handle:
Jump starts
Flat tire changes
Lockouts
Fuel delivery
Full-service towing
6. Avoid Accepting Help from Strangers
While good Samaritans mean well, it’s best to wait for a professional. Someone pulling over may not have the tools or training to help safely—and there’s always a small risk when interacting with strangers on the highway.
Instead, roll your window down slightly and let them know you’ve already called for assistance.
7. Prevent Future Breakdowns
Once your vehicle is towed or repaired, it’s a good idea to take preventive steps to avoid a repeat incident. Here are a few things to check:
Tire pressure and tread
Battery life
Fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
Check engine light codes
Paule Towing can tow your vehicle directly to a local mechanic or repair shop that you trust, getting you back on the road without extra hassle.
Belleville’s Trusted Emergency Towing Partner
At Paule Towing, we’ve helped hundreds of drivers in distress on Highway 15 and across the Metro East. Our team understands how stressful it can be to break down on a major road, and we’re committed to fast, professional emergency vehicle recovery whenever and wherever you need it.
Don’t take chances when your car breaks down—call Paule Towing at (618) 233-7464 for help you can count on in Belleville, IL and beyond.
Need Help Now?
Save our number in your phone so you’re never unprepared: (618) 233-7464
Serving Belleville, Freeburg, Swansea, Fairview Heights, and the surrounding areas.