Breakdown cover is a type of insurance designed to help you if your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly. Whether you’re heading out on a long road trip or simply commuting to work, breakdown cover can offer invaluable peace of mind.
In this guide, we’ll explore when you should consider purchasing breakdown cover, the benefits of a breakdown policy, and what it entails. We will also answer some frequently asked questions concerning breakdown cover, and why our coverage at ALA is an excellent choice.
Breakdown cover ensures you won’t be stranded on the side of the road without help. Without breakdown cover, arranging assistance can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. If you have coverage in place, a simple call will connect you to roadside assistance, whether it’s a minor fix or a tow to the nearest garage.
Breakdown cover provides a safety net for drivers of all ages and experience levels. Even if your car is relatively new and reliable, unexpected issues such as flat tyres, dead batteries, or even running out of fuel can still occur. Investing in breakdown cover, like our comprehensive plans at ALA, gives you access to swift assistance, often 24/7, and eliminates much of the worry associated with vehicle mishaps.
We have four levels of cover at ALA (Roadside, Roadside and Recovery, Total UK and Total UK and Europe), perfectly suited to your needs and budget. You can browse our breakdown coverage plans here.
The best time to buy breakdown cover is before you need it. Ideally, you should purchase cover as soon as you start driving a vehicle, whether it’s your first car, a new model, or a new addition to your household.
Travelling without breakdown cover can leave you vulnerable to expensive call-out charges if something goes wrong. Even for local commutes, having a plan in place can save you significant hassle and expense.
Another factor to consider is your car’s age and reliability. Older vehicles or those with a history of mechanical issues are more likely to experience breakdowns, making cover a smart investment. However, even newer cars aren’t immune to mishaps, so breakdown cover offers reassurance regardless of your vehicle’s condition.
Our breakdown cover is tailored to suit a variety of needs and vehicles. Whether you drive a compact city car or a campervan, ALA has options that ensure you’re always protected when you’re on the road. With cover starting from day one, you can drive with peace of mind.
You can start building your breakdown cover quote here.
This depends on the provider and the policy you choose. Many breakdown cover plans, including those from ALA, take effect immediately, meaning you can access assistance as soon as you purchase the cover. However, some policies may have a waiting period, typically 24 hours, before you can make your first claim.
It’s important to check the terms and conditions of your policy so you’re fully aware of any waiting period. This is particularly relevant if you’re buying breakdown cover in response to a recent issue. Keep in mind that most providers, including ours at ALA, do not cover pre-existing breakdowns, so it’s better to arrange cover well in advance.
With ALA breakdown cover, you’ll benefit from clear terms and rapid activation, giving you confidence that help will be available when you need it most.
Using your breakdown cover typically won’t affect your car insurance premiums. Breakdown assistance is separate from your car insurance policy, and claiming for roadside help doesn’t usually count as an insurance claim. This means you can use your cover without worrying about increased costs at renewal.
However, if you have breakdown assistance included as part of your car insurance policy, the situation might differ. Some insurers may consider your use of breakdown services when assessing risk, which could influence your premium. To avoid surprises, it’s worth understanding how your specific policy operates.
By choosing standalone breakdown cover, you avoid this complication. With a dedicated breakdown policy, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your car insurance won’t be impacted. Browse our comprehensive breakdown policies here.
When purchasing a new car, breakdown cover is still worth considering. Although many new vehicles come with manufacturer-provided roadside assistance, these plans are often limited to a set duration, such as one or two years, and may not cover every eventuality.
Manufacturer cover may exclude certain services, such as onward travel or assistance for issues caused by driver error, like running out of fuel. In contrast, a dedicated breakdown cover policy from ALA offers comprehensive protection tailored to your needs, ensuring you’re covered no matter the situation.
For used vehicles, breakdown cover is even more essential. A second-hand car may not include any existing roadside assistance, and older models are generally more prone to breakdowns. Securing breakdown cover from ALA gives you confidence on the road, regardless of your car’s age or history. So, as soon as you buy your car, consider breakdown cover if it is not already provided.
Choosing the right breakdown cover provider can make all the difference in how smoothly you handle a roadside emergency. At ALA, we offer flexible, reliable, and affordable breakdown cover designed to cater to a wide range of drivers and vehicles. Our breakdown cover includes:
Investing in breakdown cover from ALA means you’ll always have a reliable partner on hand to help you navigate unexpected vehicle issues. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or tackling the daily commute, ALA breakdown cover ensures you can drive with confidence.
To find out more, get in touch with our team today.
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