Roadside assistance, often included as an add-on with comprehensive car insurance plans, is a service that provides help during car emergencies while driving. This coverage can range from basic services like towing to more specialized assistance such as legal advice in the event of an accident. Roadside assistance is particularly useful when you cannot reach a nearby garage for help. If a repair expert is quickly available, the roadside assistance benefits may not be necessary. One of the major advantages of roadside assistance is that it can be utilized without filing an official insurance claim, allowing you to maintain your no-claim bonus.
Benefits of Having Roadside Assistance Cover
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Instant Emergency Assistance: The primary benefit of roadside assistance is 24/7 access to emergency repair services. Whether you have a dead battery or are locked out of your car, roadside assistance is there to help.
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Saves Towing Costs: Roadside assistance covers these costs and ensures your vehicle is taken to the nearest network garage in case of a breakdown.
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Breakdown Assistance: While major repairs are not typically covered, roadside assistance can handle minor issues. If your car breaks down unexpectedly, help is just a call away.
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24x7 Availability: Top-tier roadside assistance plans offer round-the-clock emergency and towing services. You only need to call the provided number to get help anytime.
What is Included in the Roadside Assistance Cover?
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Dead Battery Assistance: If your vehicle stops due to a dead battery, roadside assistance ensures a technician is sent to help, covering all repair costs.
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Car Breakdown Services: Minor breakdowns are covered, and a technician will come to assess and fix the problem if it is not a major engine issue.
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Fuel Supply: If you run out of fuel with no gas station nearby, roadside assistance will deliver fuel to you, although this service may be limited in frequency.
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Flat Tyre Services: Changing a flat tyre can be challenging. Roadside assistance can provide a spare tyre and send help to replace a punctured one.
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Car Towing Assistance: If your car cannot be driven, roadside assistance will tow it to the nearest or a preferred garage at no extra cost.
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Locked Car Services: If you are locked out or lose your keys, roadside assistance can help unlock your car or provide a replacement key.
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Replacement Transport: Some plans offer replacement transport to ensure you reach your destination if your car breaks down.
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Message Relay Services: In the event of an accident, roadside assistance can notify your family members of your situation.
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Medical Support: Roadside assistance can arrange for medical help if you are injured in an accident and cannot reach a hospital.
Exclusions of Roadside Assistance Cover
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Claiming roadside assistance more than the allowed limit set by the provider.
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Costs for fuel assistance beyond the specified limit.
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Services easily accessible without roadside assistance.
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Time-limited repair expenses.
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Incidents involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
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Damages incurred while driving without a valid license.
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Claims made under an expired insurance plan.
Do Car Insurance Plans Come with Roadside Assistance Cover?
Many comprehensive car insurance plans include roadside assistance as a basic benefit. However, not all providers or plans offer this. Less comprehensive plans may not include roadside assistance, but policyholders can usually add it for an extra premium. The additional cost is typically minimal compared to other add-ons like engine breakdown cover.
Is It Mandatory to Opt for Roadside Assistance Cover?
Roadside assistance is not legally required, but it is highly recommended. Much like a first aid kit, it’s not mandatory but incredibly useful in emergencies. Even minor car issues can become significant problems, making roadside assistance a valuable safety net.
Who Should Buy Roadside Assistance Cover?
Anyone can benefit from roadside assistance, but it is especially useful for those with older or second-hand cars, which are more prone to breakdowns. It is also beneficial for those who drive in areas with limited access to repair shops. If you prefer not to handle minor repairs yourself, such as changing a flat tyre or dead battery, roadside assistance can provide the necessary support.
