Being stranded on the hard shoulder, halfway down the M1 in the pouring rain is not fun. Knowing that your only saviour is to call a nearby garage and spend the rest of that month’s pay check to get your car towed away makes it even less so. To avoid instances such as this taking out breakdown cover is imperative.
The main benefit is that in case of a problem the cost of repair and rescue will be covered by such a policy with someone sent out to fix it on the spot or tow away your vehicle. Like all insurance policies there are many different types of breakdown cover, only some of which you will require.
Standard Cover
Whether you’ve got a brand new car or an older model, some level of breakdown cover is advised as faults and accidents can happen at any time. There are two types of standard cover: personal and vehicle. Personal covers the person, so if you drive more than one vehicle this is best, while vehicle is just cover for one particular vehicle.
Standard cover normally includes the essential areas such as roadside assistance, for sending out a mechanic to fix at the roadside, and national assistance if they have to tow the vehicle away. Additional options can be added at a price, such as if you lock yourself out of the car and key cover from Breakdown Direct.
Extra Cover
Standard cover is essential for all drivers but there are a few extras required for the more cautious and those with additional needs. European cover is exactly what it says on the tin and can be added on, which is useful if you regularly skip the channel into Europe.
If your car is a vital part of your working life then onward travel should be included, which will guarantee car hire, accommodation or public transport to get to your destination if your car is taken to a garage. Home start includes assistance on your driveway as well, if your vehicle is partial to not starting.
No Breakdown Cover
Many believe breakdown cover is only needed for older cars but driving without it is risky even in new vehicles. Accidents can leave you in a real pickle, while manufacturers sometimes recall new vehicles due to a fault that could lead to a breakdown. Unless you’re only using a car for a few weeks taking out breakdown cover should be done as your options without it can be costly, time consuming and troublesome.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
