Highway Emergency Numbers by State

When something goes wrong on the road, the safest number to remember is 911. Use 911 for a crash, injury, fire, blocked lane, dangerous debris, impaired driver, stranded vehicle in an unsafe location, or any situation where people could be at risk.

For road conditions, closures, traffic, weather, and construction delays, use 511 or your state DOT travel map when available. 511 is for traveler information. It is not a replacement for 911.

Overview

Find Your State

Jump to a state in the table below:

Highway Emergency Numbers by State

The table below is a simple 2026 roadside help lookup. Use 911 for emergencies. Use 511 or state travel tools for road conditions when available. State shortcut numbers can change, and some depend on your cell carrier or exact location. If a shortcut does not connect, call 911.

What Is the Difference Between 911 and 511?

Call 911 when people, vehicles, or traffic are in immediate danger. This includes crashes, injuries, fire, vehicles blocking traffic, dangerous road debris, impaired driving, wrong-way driving, or a stranded driver in a risky location.

Call 511 for travel information. That usually means road closures, traffic delays, weather-related road conditions, construction, cameras, and route information. A passenger can check 511 while you drive, or you can pull over safely before using your phone.

What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on the Highway

Turn on your hazard lights, move out of traffic if you can do so safely, and call for help. If you are in a dangerous place, near fast traffic, blocking a lane, or unsure what to do, call 911.

Stay away from travel lanes. If you can safely wait inside your vehicle or behind a barrier away from traffic, do that. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

Move Over Laws

All states have Move Over laws. When you see emergency vehicles, tow trucks, highway workers, service vehicles, or disabled vehicles on the roadside, move over when safe. If you cannot move over, slow down and pass carefully.

FAQ

Should I call 911 for a flat tire?

Call 911 if your vehicle is in a dangerous location, blocking traffic, on a narrow shoulder, or if you feel unsafe. If the car is safely away from traffic and nobody is in danger, use roadside assistance, your insurance app, a tow provider, or a state patrol non-emergency number if your state provides one.

Should I call 511 for an accident?

No. Call 911 for a crash, injury, blocked lane, or road hazard. Use 511 for road conditions and travel information.

Are state highway patrol shortcuts always available?

No. Some shortcuts depend on the state, cell carrier, road, or program. If a shortcut does not work, call 911.

Can I use these numbers while driving?

Do not scroll or search while driving. Ask a passenger to call, use hands-free calling where legal, or pull over safely before using your phone.

What should I tell the dispatcher?

Give your location first. Include the road name, direction of travel, nearest exit or mile marker, vehicle description, and what happened. Stay calm and answer the dispatcher’s questions.

Sources and Update Notes

This guide uses 911 as the default emergency number because 911 is the standard number for emergency help in the United States. State highway patrol shortcuts and travel information programs can change, so check your state police, highway patrol, or DOT website for the latest local guidance.

• 911.gov: Calling 911
• FHWA: About 511 Traveler Information
• NHTSA: Move Over, It's the Law
• Florida Highway Patrol: Star FHP
• Kansas Highway Patrol: How to Contact Us
• Louisiana State Police: Roadway Emergencies and Road Closures
• Nebraska State Patrol: Contact and Highway Helpline
• WSDOT: 511 Phone Number Deactivation