Breakdown Cover

What levels of breakdown cover are available?

Roadside assistance:

This is the most basic level of breakdown cover. Cover is provided when you breakdown, usually away from home. The distance required for a call out depends on the policy provider but it is usually around one mile.

Vehicle recovery:

In the event that your car can’t be fixed at the roadside, your vehicle will be transported to a nearby garage or to a garage of your choice. Check your policy for the specifics.

Onward travel:

Some breakdowns can be repaired at the roadside but if that is not the case and you still want to continue with the journey, the best breakdown cover to have is onward journey. This cover allows for the journey to be continued either by way of a hire or courtesy car, or for overnight accommodation to enable you to wait until your vehicle is fixed.

Onward travel is usually included as an additional option on breakdown cover. However, some covers do not provide it at all, so it is important to check what options are available before buying a policy.

Home assistance:

This cover provides support for breakdowns right outside the home, which means individuals are covered when their vehicle fails to start in the morning.

European cover:

This is for people who enjoy driving on different continents. This cover can either be added on as a one off trip or a 12 month cover. As well as European breakdown and recovery, you also get an English-speaking representative who can help organise the breakdown recovery if you do not speak the language of the country you have broken down in, which again adds to peace of mind.

What are the costs?

Breakdown cover varies in price depending on provider and level of cover chosen. It is always best to compare different providers and check the small print to know exactly what you are getting covered for. Sometimes cheap isn’t always the best option but you would not want to pay too much either.

What to consider when choosing a policy?

There are a few things to consider when choosing a policy such as:

• Average waiting time - how long it will take them to get you
• Maximum call outs – find out if there is a limited call out amount
• Membership benefits – find out if you get perks or extras for joining
• Priority call-outs – find out who is likely to get more priority

Breakdown cover can range from standard to extensive options, so it is best to compare different providers and the different packages they offer, to find the best cover suited to your needs.