Daily Halacha - Guidelines for Travelers, 26th of Sivan 5777

If a car breaks down on the road between cities and the driver is standing by the roadside at a loss, is there a mitzvah or obligation to provide assistance?

If a car breaks down in the middle of the road, it is both a mitzvah and an obligation to provide assistance to its passengers in any way possible. Only in situations where there is a concern for danger is one permitted to refrain [Yechaveh Da'at 5, 64].

A person traveling in their car wants to eat bread but has no water available. What should they do?

If someone is traveling in their car and wishes to eat bread but has no water, if there is no water available within seventy-two minutes of travel, they may wrap a napkin around their hand and eat without washing. However, if water is available within seventy-two minutes of travel, they are not permitted to eat until they wash their hands [Responsa of the Rishon LeTzion 2, p. 68].

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