Finding yourself stranded on the side of the road with a broken-down trailer is a frustrating scenario for any driver. It delays your schedule, impacts your delivery commitments, and creates immediate logistical headaches. While regular maintenance minimizes these risks, mechanical failures happen when you least expect them. Knowing what to do if your leased trailer breaks down before you actually face the situation helps you handle it calmly and efficiently.
Contact Your Leasing Provider
Once you’re out of the road and safe, you need to check your lease agreement or the documentation provided when you picked up the trailer. Most reputable leasing companies offer 24/7 roadside assistance as part of their service package.
The leasing company likely has a network of approved repair vendors and mobile mechanics they work with regularly. They will coordinate the service for you, which simplifies the billing process and guarantees the repairs meet their standards.
Document the Incident
While you wait for assistance, take detailed notes about what happened. Record the time the breakdown occurred, your exact location, and the specific problems the trailer exhibited before failure. Use your phone to take clear photos of the damage, if visible, as well as the surrounding area.
This documentation is important, especially if disputes arise regarding liability or billing. You also need to inform your fleet manager about the delay to manage customer expectations regarding the load you are hauling.
Determine Responsibility for Repairs
Understanding who pays for the repair depends heavily on the specific terms of your lease and the nature of the breakdown. Generally, leasing companies cover repairs related to normal wear and tear, such as structural fatigue or component failure not caused by the driver. However, if the breakdown resulted from driver negligence, such as hitting a curb that damaged an axle or failing to check tire pressure, your company might be financially responsible.
Handle the Cargo
If you are hauling refrigerated goods, check the temperature settings and fuel levels on the reefer unit immediately. If the breakdown involves the refrigeration unit itself, communicate this urgency to the roadside assistance dispatcher.
They may need to prioritize a specialized mechanic or arrange for a replacement trailer to transfer the load. For non-perishable goods, keep the trailer locked and stay with the vehicle until help arrives.
Get Back on the Road
After the repairs are complete, inspect the work before you depart. Verify that the issue is fully resolved and that the trailer is safe to operate, and keep copies of all service orders and receipts, even if the leasing company handles billing directly. Knowing what to do if your leased trailer breaks down transforms a chaotic event into a manageable inconvenience.
Trailer Leasing Solutions offers reliable, convenient trailer rental in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. Our well-maintained fleet is ready to ensure your cargo gets where it needs to be, minimizing risks and maximizing your peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about our flexible leasing options!