Breakdown Cover Levels Explained
There are essentially four main levels of breakdown cover offered by companies. In addition some may also have a European cover option.
Providers will generally offer each of these cover levels at a separate price or will combine them into a single product offering. The four levels are:
Roadside Recovery
This covers sending a repair van to where you've broken down and attempting to fix the problem at the roadside. If the vehicle cannot be fixed then they will take your vehicle to the nearest garage.
Note: It often has a restriction of at least a quarter of a mile from your home. In order to get your vehicle fixed at home, you need to ensure 'At Home Cover' option is included.
National Recovery
With National Recovery cover included, the breakdown company will take you, your passengers and your vehicle to anywhere in the UK if a repair cannot be made at the roadside.
Note: There may be restrictions to this cover. For example: You may need to be at least a quarter of a mile from home and there may be a limited number of passengers included. Check with the breakdown provider.
Home Cover
With the 'At Home Cover' option, the breakdown company will attempt to repair your vehicle at your home and within the distance not covered by the general 'Roadside Cover' option.
It's often very useful to include this additional option as it provides peace of mind that you can get immediate assistance, even though you may not have yet started your journey from home.
Onward Travel
If your vehicle cannot be repaired at the roadside, the breakdown company will make alternative arrangements for you to get to your destination.
For example, they may arrange a hire car so that you can continue your journey, organise public transport to your destination or provide overnight hotel accommodation.
Note: Companies may offer some or all of these options so check with the provider first.