Car breakdowns are among some of the most annoying and stressful situations faced by drivers. The fear of being stuck in the middle of nowhere with a broken car, not to mention the hefty costs that can come with getting yourself back on the road again, leave many without breakdown cover wondering how they did without it.
Taking a closer look at some of the benefits, and how to get the right level of cover, is important if you want to remain protected on the road, and on the side of it!
Is it worth getting breakdown cover?
The short answer is yes. Breakdown cover can offer peace of mind, knowing that you have a support network there to assist you in the event of a breakdown. It also allows for swift and efficient action to get your car back on the road or towed to a nearby garage if necessary.
But beyond the convenience and peace of mind, breakdown cover can also save you a lot of money. Depending on the level of cover, breakdown services can assist with various aspects such as transport to a mechanic, providing alternative transportation, or even covering repair costs. This means that not only will you be able to get back on the road sooner, but it may also save you from having to foot an expensive bill yourself.
How do I choose the right level of cover?
There are various levels and types of breakdown cover available, so it’s important to consider your own personal needs and requirements before making a decision. Do you often drive long distances or frequently travel abroad? Will you need assistance for more than just your car, such as a van or motorbike?
It’s also worth checking what is included in each level of cover, as some may only assist with towing or providing alternative transportation, while others may include repair costs or even accommodation expenses if you were to break down on a long journey.
Overall, breakdown cover can offer both peace of mind and practical support in the event of a breakdown. It’s worth taking the time to research and compare different options to ensure that you have the right level of cover for your needs.
Can you add breakdown cover to an existing policy?
In many cases, breakdown cover can be added onto existing car insurance policies. It’s always worth checking with your provider to see if this is an option for you, as it may offer a more cost-effective solution than taking out a separate policy. However, do keep in mind that level of cover and the services included may differ from standalone breakdown cover policies.
It is usually one of the features of comprehensive cover, but it can also be added onto third party or third party fire and theft policies. Again, it’s important to check with your provider and compare what is included in each option before making a decision.
Does breakdown count as a claim?
This depends on the specific breakdown cover provider and policy. It’s worth checking with your provider to see if a breakdown would count as a claim on your insurance, as this could affect any future premiums. Some providers may also have restrictions or limits on how many claims can be made within a certain period of time.
In general, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and contact your breakdown cover provider before taking any further action in the event of a breakdown. They will be able to assist you and advise on the best course of action.
Remember, having breakdown cover means that you have support and assistance in unexpected situations – so make sure you have the right level of cover for your needs and always contact them in the event of a breakdown.
What else should you know about breakdown cover?
- Some providers offer multi-vehicle breakdown cover, which can be convenient if you have more than one car in your household.
- Breakdown cover can also assist with lost keys and flat tires, in addition to more major breakdowns.
- It’s important to keep your breakdown provider’s contact information easily accessible in case you need to use it while on the road.
- Some breakdown cover providers also offer additional perks, such as discounts on car rentals or travel expenses.
- It’s worth checking if your credit card or membership of certain organizations (such as AA or RAC) include any form of breakdown cover. This may be enough for your needs, or it can be used as an additional form of support alongside a separate policy.
- Always read the terms and conditions of your breakdown cover policy carefully to fully understand what is included and any potential restrictions. This will ensure that you are prepared in the event of a breakdown.
The best way to get competitive quotes for insurance is to shop around and compare what’s out there. If this sounds like hassle, QuoteSearcher can help. We use a panel of brokers who specialise in certain insurance types – browse the site to learn more.