car with breakdown cover

Can short term car insurance include breakdown cover?


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Breaking Down the Basics of Breakdown Cover

Imagine you're on a serene drive in the countryside, and suddenly, your car grinds to a halt. That's where breakdown cover comes into play, a true lifesaver on unpredictable journeys. But the question is, can you add this safety net to your short-term car insurance?

Some of the insurance providers that we link to on this site offer a basic breakdown cover as standard, with an option to upgrade it, but not every insurer does that!

Short-Term Car Insurance: A Quick Recap

Short-term car insurance is exactly what it sounds like: an insurance policy that covers you for a short period, typically ranging from one day to a few months. It’s an ideal solution for temporary driving arrangements, and yes, you can obtain quotes for these types of policies online for easy comparison.

Can You Add Breakdown Cover?

Now, onto the main query: can you enhance your temporary insurance with breakdown cover? The straightforward answer is yes, most insurers do allow the inclusion of breakdown cover in short-term policies. However, the availability and extent of such an add-on can vary significantly from one provider to another.

driver covered against breakdowns
Thank you, breakdown cover!

Types of Breakdown Cover

Breakdown policies aren't one-size-fits-all. They come in different shapes and sizes. Here are the common types you might come across:

  • Roadside Assistance: The most basic form, where help is sent to your car if you break down a certain distance away from home.
  • Home Start: Getting help isn’t just for when you're away; this option covers you if your car won’t start at home.
  • National Recovery: If repairs can't be made promptly, your car, you, and typically any passengers can be taken to any UK destination.
  • Onward Travel: This can include a courtesy car, hotel accommodation, or alternative travel arrangements if your car is undergoing repairs.

Considering the Extra Cost

Adding breakdown cover to your temporary insurance isn't without extra costs. The convenience and peace of mind it offers do come with a price tag, varying based on the provider and the level of cover you opt for. So, it’s wise to consider whether the circumstances warrant such an addition.

Is It Worth It?

Deciding whether to add breakdown cover depends on your individual needs and journey. If you're planning a long trip, driving a car known for its unpredictability, or simply want to avoid any potential hassle, then it’s certainly worth considering.

Getting the Best Deal

Remember, not all breakdown covers are created equal. Each insurer will have different packages, limitations, and exclusions. To ensure you're getting what you need, it’s important to compare different offers. Fortunately, you can easily do this online, sifting through various quotes until you find the one that ticks all your boxes.

Why wait? Click the button to gather quotes from a range of insurers and find the best deal on your short-term car insurance with breakdown cover. It’s straightforward and won’t take more than a few minutes of your time!

Final Thoughts

Adding breakdown cover to your short-term policy could be a real game-changer, turning an inconvenient situation into a manageable one. It’s all about weighing the costs against the potential benefits and finding a policy that aligns with your needs for the journey ahead.

Important: The details provided in this article are for general information purposes only. Insurance offerings can differ substantially from one policy to another. It's essential to check the specifics and ensure the cover you’re considering is suitable for your individual requirements.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal?     How is it regulated?     Will I get proof of cover?     What information will I have to give?     When do policies start?     Are there general limitations?     How are premiums calculated?     Can a policy be extended?     Can I get quotes quickly?     How do I renew a policy?     How long can a policy run for?     How would it affect my regular car insurance?     How do I apply for a policy?     Is it expensive?     Are there age restrictions?     Are there hidden fees?     How will it affect my no claims bonus?     What if there is a police check?     Is theft covered?     Are policies really comprehensive?     Can I insure a car I don't own?     Can I insure a high value car?     What sort of vehicles can be insured?     Can I insure an additional car?     Can I get a policy fast in an emergency?     Are there policies for learner drivers?     Can non-UK drivers get cover?     Can I buy a policy for a single day?     Are one week policies available?     Are personal belongings covered?     Can I insure a rental car?     Can I use it for a ride sharing business?     Can it be used for taxing a car?     Can I use it for a test drive?     Is it suitable for tourism?     Can I tow a caravan or trailer?     Can vans be insured?     Can young drivers buy policies?     What is the maximum policy length?     Are there mileage limits?     Would buying multiple policies be a problem?     Would I be covered for driving outside the UK?     Are there large policy excesses?     Can I buy a policy with a Northen Ireland licence?     Can breakdown cover be included?     Will points on my licence stop me from getting cover?     Will previous accidents be a problem?     How does it differ from pay as you go insurance?     Where can I drive in the UK?    



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