Types of Breakdown cover
17 September 2023
By Joy Pearson
[email protected]
Breakdowns are an unfortunate reality of car ownership, and they often happen when you least expect them. Whether you're on your way to work, heading out for a family vacation, or simply driving around town, a breakdown can be stressful and inconvenient experience. That's where breakdown cover comes to the rescue. In today's post, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the various types of breakdown cover, from basic roadside assistance to full recovery options, helping you make an informed choice for your peace of mind.
Roadside assistance is the most basic and common type of breakdown cover. When your vehicle breaks down, a trained technician will come to your location and attempt to repair your car on the stop. If the issue can't be fixed quickly, they will tow your car to the nearest garage for further repairs. This type of cover is perfect for minor breakdowns like a flat tire or a dead battery. This can be especially valuable for those who heavily rely on their vehicles for daily commuting or have concerns about their car starting in the morning.
National recovery is a comprehensive breakdown cover option that provides assistance across the entire country, ensuring you're not left stranded during long journeys. If your vehicle breaks down far from home and cannot be fixed at the roadside, this cover comes into play. A recovery vehicle will be dispatched to transport you, your passengers, and your car to any location in the UK. This can be incredibly useful for individuals who frequently embark on road trips, vacations or business travels.
Onward travel cover is designed to minimize disruptions caused by breakdowns. If your vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside, this cover offers alternative transportation solutions. Depending on your policy, you might receive benefits such as a replacement rental car, public transportation tickets, or even accommodation if you're far away from home. Onward travel cover ensure you can continue your journey, whether it's a family vacation of a critical business trip.
European breakdown cover is essential for those planning to drive their vehicles outside the UK. It provides assistance if your car breaks down whilst you're travelling to Europe. This cover includes services like roadside assistance, towing to a nearby garage, and even repatriation if your car can't be repaired abroad. It's crucial for peace of mind when exploring Europe by car, as it ensure you won't be left stranded in an unfamiliar place.
Full UK recovery is a comprehensive options that offers maximum coverage across the UK. It combines the benefits of roadside assistance, at-home cover, national recovery, and onward travel. With full-UK recovery, you're protected whether your car breaks down near your home, on a long journey, or during daily commuting. This type of cover ensure that you have access to a wide range of services, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comprehensive protection.
Pay and reclaim cover is a different approach to breakdown cover. Instead of paying for a pre-arranged policy, you pay for any breakdown assistance you might need at the time or breakdown. Afterward, you can reclaim the costs from your insurance provider. This option can be suitable for occasional drivers who prefer not to commit to an annual breakdown policy. However, it's essential to keep all receipts and documentation to facilitate the reimbursement process.
Joint or family cover is tailored for thousands of households with multiple drivers or vehicles. It typically allows you to cover multiple family members and their cars under a single policy, offering convenience and potential cost savings. This can be a practical choice for families with several vehicles, ensuring everyone has access to breakdown assistance when needed.
Vehicle-based cover focuses on the specific vehicle rather than the driver. This means that if the vehicle is covered no matter who is driving it. It can be an attractive option if you have multiple drivers using the same car of if your frequently switch between vehicles. With vehicle-based cover, you don't need to purchase separate policies for each driver, simplifying the breakdown cover process.
Each type of breakdown cover comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. When selecting the right cover for your needs, it's essential to consider your driving habits, the distances you travel, and any specific requirements, such as European travel. Tailoring your breakdown cover to your unique circumstances ensures that you have the support you need in case of a breakdown, providing excellent peace of mind on the road.