Stranded on Irish Motorways? Here's How to Use Emergency SOS Boxes

When your car breaks down on Ireland's busy motorways, bright orange Emergency Roadside Telephone boxes could be your lifeline to safety, even when mobile signals fail.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland has outlined eight crucial steps every driver should know when using Emergency Roadside Telephones, commonly called SOS boxes, which provide direct connections to emergency services and breakdown assistance across the country's major routes.

These weather-resistant devices, strategically positioned along certain motorways and dual carriageways, automatically connect callers to control rooms when the handset is lifted, eliminating the need to remember emergency numbers during stressful situations.

Stop safely and exit carefully

The first priority involves pulling onto the hard shoulder only when safe to do so, choosing firm ground away from traffic lanes. Exit your vehicle on the passenger side, away from passing traffic, and wear high-visibility clothing if available.

Locate and approach the SOS box

The distinctive orange boxes are positioned at regular intervals along major routes where installed. Walk directly but cautiously to the nearest box, remaining alert to passing vehicles throughout your approach.

Make the call and provide essential information

Lifting the handset typically triggers an automatic connection to the appropriate control room. Callers should clearly state their location, including road name, direction of travel, and nearest junction or marker number, along with details about the incident, any injuries, and the number of people involved.

Stay safe whilst waiting

Remain behind crash barriers or well away from traffic flow whilst awaiting assistance. Avoid returning to your vehicle until help arrives, and respond calmly to any questions from operators.

Why choose SOS boxes over mobile phones?

Even in areas with poor mobile coverage, these emergency telephones maintain reliable connections to control rooms. They automatically transmit location data, enabling faster deployment of Gardaí, ambulance services, or motorway recovery teams as required.

Essential knowledge for Irish drivers

For motorists travelling Ireland's major routes, particularly during adverse weather conditions or in areas with poor mobile signal coverage, knowing how to properly use these emergency systems could prove invaluable for personal safety and efficient incident response.

Following these straightforward steps helps ensure both your safety and the quickest possible assistance for others who may find themselves in similar situations on Irish roads.