What to Do If Your Car Breaks Down on the 18-Mile Stretch
The 18-Mile Stretch is beautiful, with water on both sides and the Keys ahead. It is also one of the worst places for a car to give out: long sections, few places to pull over, and traffic that keeps moving. If it happens to you, here is what to do, step by step.
Short answer: turn on your hazard lights, pull onto the widest shoulder you can reach, stay buckled in unless the car is unsafe, and note the nearest green mile marker. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or you are blocking a lane. Then call us at (305) 564-9190. We tow between the mainland and the Keys.
What is the 18-Mile Stretch?
It is the part of US-1 between Florida City and Key Largo. Most of it is a divided highway with a barrier down the middle, water and mangroves along the sides, and long distances between places to stop. That is why a breakdown here needs a little more planning than one in town.
What should you do the moment the car starts to fail?
- Turn on your hazard lights right away.
- Slow down gradually and look ahead for the widest shoulder or a pull-off.
- Pull as far right as you safely can. Do not stop in a travel lane unless the car will not move at all.
- Turn the wheels away from traffic and set the parking brake.
Should you stay in the car?
Usually, yes. With traffic close by, the safest place is often inside the car with your seat belt on. Get out only if the car is unsafe, for example if you see smoke or smell fuel. If you do get out, use the side away from traffic and stand well back from the road.
How do you tell us where you are?
Look for the small green mile marker signs along US-1. In the Keys, addresses and directions are given by mile marker, so “southbound, near mile marker 120” is the clearest way to tell us where you are. Also tell us which direction you were driving and what you drive.
Who do you call first?
| Situation | Call first |
|---|---|
| Anyone hurt, a crash, or your car is blocking a lane | 911 |
| Car stopped safely on the shoulder | A towing company |
| Smoke, fire or a fuel smell | 911, then move away from the car |
What can you do while you wait?
- Keep your hazard lights on.
- Keep your phone charged and your location written down.
- In the heat, keep water with you and stay out of direct sun.
- Keep doors locked if you are waiting inside.
- If you have reflective triangles and it is safe, place them well behind the car.
How can you avoid breaking down on the Stretch?
Fill up in Florida City before you head south. Glance at your temperature gauge and warning lights before the drive. If anything feels wrong, stop in Florida City and have it checked, or call us from a safe parking lot. It is much easier to help you there than halfway to Key Largo.
Where will your car go?
Wherever makes sense for you: back to the mainland, to a repair shop in Key Largo, or to your home. Tell us your plans and we will help you choose.
Common questions
Yes. We tow on US-1 between Florida City and Key Largo, and farther into the Keys when needed.
Give the nearest green mile marker and your direction of travel, for example southbound near mile marker 120.
Usually yes, with your seat belt on, unless the car is unsafe. If you get out, use the side away from traffic.
Yes. We can take it to Homestead, Florida City, Miami or another address you choose.
Call us first with your mile marker and direction, then save battery by lowering the screen brightness and closing apps.
Need help right now? Call (305) 564-9190. More: towing in Florida City · towing services · towing FAQ.