Roadside Assistance with Car Insurance
Compare car insurance policies with roadside assistance online today.
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Roadside assistance plays a valuable role in ensuring the safety and security of motorists in Australia. Whether it’s a breakdown or misplaced car keys, roadside assistance cover can help you get back on the road when you need it most.
If you’re looking for roadside assistance as part of your car insurance, you can compare offers side-by-side online, helping you find a suitable deal in minutes from trusted providers.
What is roadside assistance and what does it cover?
Roadside assistance is a service designed to provide immediate help to drivers during breakdowns or unexpected incidents while on the road. When using roadside assistance services, the first step is to call your provider, who will generally try to troubleshoot over the phone. If this is unsuccessful, a technician will be sent out to help. They can provide services such as:
- Emergency towing: if your vehicle breaks down and immediate repair isn’t possible, roadside assistance may enable your vehicle to be towed to a nearby service station or repair shop.
- Fuel delivery: if you run out of fuel while driving, roadside assistance can deliver a limited amount of fuel to help you reach the nearest petrol station.
- Battery jump-start: if your car battery dies, your cover can send someone to jump-start your vehicle and attempt to get you back on the road.
- Lockout assistance: if you accidentally lock your keys inside your car, it can facilitate the unlocking of your vehicle or arrange for a locksmith if needed.
- Flat tyre repair: if you get a flat tyre, roadside assistance can reinflate it or change it if you have a spare.
Roadside assistance coverage can vary depending on the provider and the type of coverage you need. In some cases, this may range from basic cover providing essential assistance for common roadside incidents to more comprehensive coverage that includes perks such as increased limits on call-outs and towing. However, many providers will only offer one level of roadside assistance.
Roadside assistance isn’t the same as car insurance, but it can complement it. While car insurance primarily covers damages resulting from accidents, theft or other covered events, roadside assistance focuses on providing roadside support in the case of breakdown or mechanical failure.
How do I get roadside assistance cover?
Roadside assistance can often be added to existing car insurance policies, offering an extra layer of protection and assistance in case of roadside incidents. Many comprehensive car insurance policies have roadside insurance included or available for free or at additional cost as an optional extra, which could offer you greater policy value and peace of mind.
However, roadside assistance cover may also be able to be taken out as a standalone policy either with certain insurance companies or state-based motoring clubs. Car dealers may also provide roadside assistance for new cars that are still under warranty in some cases.
Finding the best roadside assistance in Australia depends on your individual requirements. Before signing up for a roadside assistance plan, you should figure out exactly what you need from it. Consider factors such as your driving habits, the age and condition of your vehicle, and the areas you frequently travel to. It’s also important to compare providers and policies, weighing up pricing, coverage and any additional benefits.
What are the benefits of roadside assistance cover?
Drivers in Australia aren’t required to have roadside assistance cover but, depending on your circumstances, you may find it beneficial to take it out. Some of the key benefits of roadside assistance are:
- Peace of mind: can eliminate much of the stress and uncertainty of roadside incidents, connecting drivers to trained professionals who can provide the help they need.
- Convenience: access the help you need in a single phone call.
- Expertise and assistance: services are provided by experts with the skills and experience to handle various roadside situations.
- Cost savings: can provide coverage for events that individuals would otherwise need to independently arrange and pay for, which can be pricey.
However, in some cases, roadside assistance can be:
- Expensive: the cost of this coverage on top of car insurance can be off-putting, especially if you drive infrequently or only for short distances close to your home.
- Limited: while common incidents like breakdowns are covered, there may be limitations for other situations, such as off-road incidents.
Types of car insurance you can choose from
The most basic type of optional cover available, TPPD insurance can offer protection for damage caused by your vehicle to other people's property. However, no damage to your vehicle will be covered.
A step up from TPPD, TPFT insurance can also cover damage to your vehicle sustained due to a fire or theft (or attempted theft) in addition to third-party property damage if you're in an at-fault accident.
The most extensive (and expensive) form of cover, comprehensive car insurance can also offer cover for damage to your vehicle in an accident, collision and certain weather events on top of the areas TPFT covers.
How to compare roadside assistance cover
Price
While it’s essential to find a plan that provides the type of coverage you need, it's equally important to ensure it suits your budget and provides value for money. In addition to the base cost, you should take into account any associated fees, such as whether there is a joining fee or additional charges for specialised services.
Callout limits
Callout limits refer to the number of times you can request help within a specified period. Some roadside assistance plans will have unlimited callouts, providing support as many times as needed during the coverage period, while others may impose restrictions or have additional charges for exceeding callout limits.
Towing limits
Towing limits refer to the distance a towing service will cover if you break down on the road, as well as how many tows you will be covered for. Services may also be limited to specific regions, so if you frequently travel across different states or regions ensure that your plan covers towing services in those areas. For instance, your roadside assistance may cover towing of 20km in metropolitan areas and 50km in rural areas.
Fuel
If you run out of petrol while on the road, does your plan cover fuel delivery, and if so, how much? Compare the amount of fuel provided by different plans and any limitations or additional costs involved: for example, some plans may cover the cost of fuel, while others may require you to pay for it yourself. Some plans may also offer alternative assistance if fuel delivery isn’t possible.
Missing keys
Check if you’re covered for key loss or lockout situations, such as accidentally locking your keys inside the vehicle. This could include lockout assistance to help you regain access to your vehicle, key replacement, key retrieval and locksmith services. It's also important to check the extent of coverage and any potential charges for specialised services.
Frequently asked questions about roadside assistance cover
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