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Breakdown Services in the UK are called out over 25,000 times per day. This can be for a multitude of reasons from flat tyres to engine problems.
Most of these problems can be solved at the scene by the breakdown rescue patrol providers so you can be on your way in no time without delay. If this is not possible then they will tow your car to the nearest car repair garage or if you have opted for enhanced breakdown cover they will either tow it to your home address or local garage. Enhanced breakdown cover can also include emergency accommodation if you get stranded far from home as a result of your vehicle breaking down.
By having breakdown cover you have an emergency service provided by experienced, safe roadside assistance as breaking down when you least expect it can be a very stressful ordeal and can be especially frightening at night time or on quiet roads. It is well worth taking up Breakdown cover or you may regret it if you don’t. Their job is to help safeguard you and your passengers as well as fix your vehicle. The breakdown recovery unit will know what to do to make you safe as soon as possible if your vehicle has broken down in a dangerous area such as on the side of a busy stretch of fast road, or motorway.
There are have been many cases of vehicles breaking down on the side of the motorway then being hit by other vehicles. Even changing a flat tyre on the edge of a motorway has been fatal for some. Given the speed of vehicles moving on the motorway it is extremely hazardous place to breakdown. This is where having Breakdown cover is vital.
Read our tips and advice on keeping safe on the motorway and fast moving roads.
1. Pull over on the hard shoulder as far to the left as possible. Make sure you signal to let your intentions known to other road users and try to avoid making sudden maneuvers when possible. Turn your wheels to the left to avoid the possibility of the vehicle rolling into the path of traffic.
2. Where possible stop near an emergency phone.
3. Warn other road users by putting on your hazard lights.
4. Call your breakdown company and tell them your membership number, your location as accurately as possible, any relevant details of the problem with the vehicle and any other information about your situation..
5. All passengers should exit the vehicle by the left-hand side to avoid other vehicles on the motorway.
Where possible wait on the verge, away from the motorway. Keep all passengers away from the road, especially children.
1. When it is possible try to drive your vehicle off the road. Thus avoiding any obstruction to other vehicles and keep you and your passengers safe.
2. Warn other road users by putting your hazard lights on.
3. Leave the car by the left side and wait on the side of the road. Be sure to stay well clear of any traffic.
4. Call your breakdown provider and wait for them to assist you.
Types of Breakdown Recovery
Here is a list of the various levels of Breakdown Cover Available:
Roadside Rescue
Basic roadside Rescue comes into play If your car breaks down beyond a specific distance from your registered home address. This type of breakdown cover policy will get you quickly on the road again or if they is not possible then they will tow you to the nearest breakdown approved garage which is within a certain radius from where you have broken down. In most cases the car can be fixed at the scene of the breakdown so you should get up to an hour of repair work to your car to get you back on the road ASAP. Part costs may not be included in this so you will most likely have to pay.
Roadside Rescue and Home Rescue
Roadside Rescue and Home Rescue will cover you on the road with roadside rescue and also provide cover to you if you breakdown at home or in a certain radius of your home. This is a more extensive Breakdown policy than regular Roadside Rescue.
Recovery Plus Options
In some case of breakdown recovery you may still require to get to your destination or to return home. In this instance some breakdown recovery providers will give you ‘Recovery Plus', which can provide the following options:
A hire car to allow you to continue your onward journey or cost of other transport.
Some breakdown recovery services will offer accommodation in a local hotel while you await repairs.
European Breakdown Cover
European Breakdown cover is beneficial when driving around in a European country. It includes features such as:
European Roadside breakdown cover.
The recovery of your vehicle back to the UK if it cannot be driven home.
Legal cover in you are involved in any accidents or any claims are brought against you.
If you are a victim of car theft it will cover the cost of you returning home.
The cost of delivering replacement parts to your breakdown location if they're not available locally.
When driving in Europe:
• Make sure you have all necessary documentation with you at all times during your trip. You may be asked to produce these at any time:1. A full valid driving license with paper counterpart where applicable s2. An International Driving Permit if required3. Passport4. Vehicle insurance certificate5. Vehicle registration document6. Breakdown cover documents
Keeping your car on the road.
To Avoid Breaking down In the first place, you should take certain precautions. Here are some tips to trying to keep your car on the road:
1. Check oil and water regularly.
2. Check anti freeze.
The opinions expressed are those of the author only. The material is for general information only and does not constitute legal, financial or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation by an FSA authorised company where the market is FSA regulated.
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