What you need to ask when choosing breakdown cover.
What do I need to consider when choosing a policy?
You need to be fully aware of the type and level of cover you want and ensure the policy fully matches your requirements, otherwise you could find yourself stranded - literally!
Do you want Personal or Vehicle-based cover? Consider whether you want to cover the vehicle, (so anyone could be driving the vehicle and still be covered) or whether you want to cover yourself as the driver or passenger of any vehicle. If you choose the latter, this option will generally be more expensive.
For example, if you drive several vehicles, or are a regular passenger in other peoples' cars, then Personal cover maybe more beneficial than Vehicle-based cover.
- Do you want Single, Joint or Family Cover?
- Do you drive abroad? If so, consider European Cover. This is offered by some of the larger companies, and you will need to pay an additional premium for this cover.
- Does the policy give priority to people in vulnerable situations and is this important to you?
- Does the insurer have its own team of qualified, endorsed mechanics or do they tender out the business to local garages? Consider what would make you feel more comfortable in the event of your vehicle breaking down.
- Price. Have you got the best deal on your policy? (Use our Directory of Breakdown Recovery providers to compare premiums, levels and types of cover, plus policy benefits)
Some of the larger providers will offer you special benefits for being a member - perhaps a discount on non-motoring related products and services, such as accommodation or finance products. See what membership benefits - if any - are available, and decide whether it would be beneficial to you to pay a little extra for your cover.
Check the 'Exclusions' section thoroughly - what one insurer may cover, another may not. (See Exclusions).
