Emergency English phrasebook

The English you need when something goes wrong on the road. Print it or save it as a PDF, and keep it in your cab.

In an emergency in the United States or Canada, call 911.

Breakdown

Say this	Meaning
My truck has broken down. I need a tow truck.	Your truck stopped working and you need it towed.
I have a flat tire.	One of your tires has no air.
I am on the shoulder of Interstate __, near mile marker __.	Tell them which highway you are on and the nearest mile marker.
My engine is overheating.	The engine is getting too hot.

Accident

Say this	Meaning
I need to report an accident.	You are calling to tell the police about an accident.
Is anyone hurt?	You are asking if someone is injured.
Please call an ambulance.	You are asking someone to call for medical help.
Here is my insurance information.	You are handing over your insurance details.

Medical help

Say this	Meaning
I need a doctor.	You need to see a doctor.
I have chest pain.	Your chest hurts.
I am allergic to __.	Name something that gives you an allergic reaction.

Police and inspections

Say this	Meaning
Could you repeat that more slowly, please?	You are asking the person to say it again, more slowly.
I do not understand. Could you write it down?	You are asking the person to write it down for you.
Here are my license, registration and medical card.	You are handing over your three main documents.

On the road

Say this	Meaning
Is this road closed?	You are asking whether this road is closed to traffic.
Where is the nearest truck stop?	You are asking for directions to a truck stop.