Breakdown cover is a type of insurance that provides drivers with assistance should a fault occur when driving the vehicle. In some instances, the vehicle can be repaired at the roadside, although there will be instances when the car needs to be towed to a garage.
However, there can be a different type of breakdown cover, and the correct policy must be in place should the worst-case scenario arise. The following is an overview of the breakdown cover available, and some of the frequently asked questions regarding policies.
To ensure that drivers are acquiring the correct breakdown cover, it is important to understand the differences between the available options. An overview of the different breakdown cover available is as follows.
Personal Breakdown Cover covers drives in an eligible vehicle, regardless of whether they are a passenger or driver. This type of breakdown cover can give drivers confidence that they’re always covered, regardless of the vehicle they’re in. However, if a vehicle is damaged and the person with breakdown cover is not present, then it is unlikely that help will be provided.
As the name suggests, Vehicle Breakdown Cover covers a specific vehicle. This means a vehicle will be covered if other family members use it, but the breakdown cover cannot be used for other cars the person may be driving or travelling in.
In addition to different types of breakdown cover, there are also different levels. The following is an explanation of the different levels of breakdown cover available and the different levels they cover.
Roadside Assistance, also known as Roadside Recovery, is a basic level of cover and will cover breakdowns that occur a quarter of a mile from a home address or further. If the vehicle cannot be fixed by the side of the road, then it will be towed to the nearest garage.
Home Breakdown Cover aids drivers who break down on their driveway within a quarter mile of their home address. Examples of when Home Breakdown Cover would be used include flat batteries and non-starting vehicles.
Although some instances of breakdown cover will include the towing of a vehicle, there can be instances when distance limitations are in place. Vehicle Recovery allows a vehicle to be towed for a greater distance, which is perfect for those who reside in isolated or quiet areas.
Onward Travel is an alternative name for vehicle hire and ensures your lifestyle is not affected following a defective vehicle or motor accident. There can also be instances when the company providing the breakdown cover will supply travel expenses and accommodation fees, but this will depend on the circumstances.
Discover how much your car is worth! Get the instant offer by entering just two details about your car.
One of the biggest fears for drivers is breaking down and realising they have no breakdown cover in place. Drivers can still request assistance, but will often have to pay an excess for the service. As such, it is often more cost-effective to ensure that breakdown cover is in place in the first instance.
Many things can go wrong with a vehicle, so some drivers can be confused as to the type of assistance they’re entitled to. Any uncertainties regarding breakdown cover must be discussed with the business, but those with breakdown cover can expect the following to be covered.
It is worth noting that not every business will provide the same level of cover, so it is essential to explore the options available before committing. The more flexible a business is, the easier it should be for drivers to find breakdown cover that fits their requirements as well as their budget.
In most instances, breakdown cover will start as soon as the first payment is received. However, there can be instances when a standard period of cover is in place, which is usually the first 24 hours. Drivers who are unsure when their breakdown cover starts should double-check with the business to ensure they’re not caught short when driving.
One of the most commonly asked questions regarding breakdown cover is how long a driver can expect to wait for assistance. The answer can depend on the professional used.
For example, one of the most popular breakdown policies in the UK is offered by Dynamo Cover and according to their site, if you take out breakdown cover with Dynamo, their target response time is just 40 minutes.
A lot of people focus solely on the price of a policy, but this can be detrimental should there be an incident with the vehicle. Of course, drivers should never pay more than they should for breakdown cover, but it is essential that the policy meets all the driver’s requirements, including the amount of time waiting for assistance.
As such, taking some time to choose the right policy ensures that breakdown cover provides peace of mind and plenty of value for money.
Drivers who take care of their vehicles and can contend with repairs themselves may feel that paying for breakdown cover is an unneeded expense. However, the costs associated with breakdown cover are often less should a professional be needed, and the time needed to carry out a repair could mean cost is incurred in other ways.
Breakdown cover allows drivers to focus on other aspects of life while having the peace of mind that cover is in place should the worst-case scenario arise when driving.
Discover how much your car is worth! Get the instant offer by entering just two details about your car.
A semi-automatic car, also referred to as a semi-auto or an automated manual transmission (AMT) vehicle, merges the features of both manual and automatic transmissions. The unique aspect of semi-automatic cars is their ability to function like an automatic vehicle, while also offering the driver the option to manually change gears without the need for […]
Are you looking to supplement your income, pay off debt, or save for a big purchase? Your car might just hold the key to achieving those financial goals. There are many ways to earn money from your car besides working as a driver for ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft. In this article, we will […]
If you are planning to sell your car, the good news is that there are now more ways than ever before to advertise your vehicle online. From classified ads to social media, you have a lot of options to reach potential buyers and sell your car quickly. In today’s modern world, most car buyers have […]
If you’re looking to buy a car you’ve probably come across the term “hatchback” quite a few times which is often confused with other types of cars. So what exactly is a hatchback car? And how does it differ from other types of cars? Here’s everything you need to know. What is a Hatchback Vehicle? […]
If you’re in the market for buying or selling a used car, understanding car categories can be helpful. One such category is Cat D, or Category D, cars. These are vehicles that have been previously classified as “damaged” but have since been repaired and made roadworthy again. In this article, we’ll dive into the details […]
When it comes to purchasing a car, the outright cash purchase is merely the tip of the iceberg in terms of available finance options. In today’s market, car buyers are presented with an assortment of car finance solutions, each with its unique advantages and considerations. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer, a business owner in […]
When it comes to buying a used car, one of the most important factors is its mileage. Mileage refers to the distance that a vehicle has travelled since it was first manufactured. The lower the mileage, the newer and more reliable a car is presumed to be. But what exactly is considered good mileage for […]
A few years back diesel cars were the popular choice among car buyers, but recently in the past few years the scenario has changed. With stricter emission norms and increased environmental concerns, diesel cars are facing criticism and have been banned in many cities around the world. This has led many people to question whether […]
A crossover car, often seen as a perfect blend between a hatchback’s compactness and an SUV’s rugged capability, occupies a sweet spot in the automotive market. It’s designed for those who seek the comfort and efficiency of a smaller car, but crave the space and versatility typically found in something bigger. In this blog, we […]
During the unpredictable winter months driving on icy roads can be quite risky even for the most experienced drivers. The treacherously slick surfaces, the impaired visibility due to falling snow or fog, and the unpredictability of other road users all combine to create an environment that commands utmost respect and caution. The risks associated with […]
In recent years, the sight of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) dominating the roads has become increasingly common. Their rise in popularity signals a shift in consumer preferences, reflecting the diverse needs and desires of modern drivers. But what exactly is driving the unwavering appeal of these robust vehicles? From their commanding road presence to their […]
Regular car servicing is a bit like a routine health check-up for your vehicle. Neglect it, and you might find yourself stuck with hefty repair bills and a car that’s on the brink of a breakdown. Much like how catching health issues early can save a lot of trouble and expense down the line, timely […]
When purchasing a car, it’s always important to know the history and condition of the vehicle. This is why categories like Cat N (Category N) exist, to inform buyers of any potential risks or issues with the car. But what if you’ve already owned a Cat N car? Or perhaps you’re looking to buy a […]
The wider adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) marks a shift in the automotive industry. At the same time, this trend is significantly contributing to the improvement of air quality and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Here are the different ways in which the widespread use of electric vehicles helps control air pollution. Zero Tailpipe […]
4WD/4×4 or Four-wheel drive vehicles, symbolised as the epitome of robustness and versatility, offer a unique proposition for those who desire a blend of comfort, performance, and off-road capabilities. The benefits of these vehicles extend beyond the mere aesthetic appeal, delving deeper into practical functionalities that could transform your driving experience. From superior traction on […]
The auto industry is revving up its electric ambitions. While SUVs and crossovers may be the first choice for many car buyers looking for space and versatility, estate cars offer an unbeatable blend of practicality and spaciousness that’s hard to beat. Particularly for larger families and those needing ample luggage capacity. Electric estate cars, which […]
Experiencing a petrol smell in your car can be worrying, and it’s something you should never ignore. This smell could be a sign of something minor, like a loose petrol cap, or an indication of a more serious issue such as a fuel leak. Either way, it’s crucial to identify the cause promptly to ensure […]
We’ve all experienced it, haven’t we? Stuck behind a driver who seems determined to stick to a leisurely pace, despite our own hectic schedules demanding that we get to our destination pronto. The temptation to overtake can be quite overpowering in such situations. But hold on a minute! Let’s not let our urgency cloud our […]
In the United Kingdom, all vehicles over three years old are subject to an annual MOT test to ensure they’re up to scratch with key road safety and environmental standards. Now, if you’ve found yourself wondering, “How early can I MOT my car?” you’re not alone. This common question often crosses the minds of car […]
Adding a roof rack to your vehicle can greatly increase its utility, creating extra space for luggage, sporting equipment, or even bulky items that wouldn’t fit in the boot. However, you might be wondering about the potential impact it could have on your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency and even safety. In this guide, we intend […]