Driving is a significant part of most adults’ daily routine and with every decade that passes, more and more cars fill up UK roads. However, with more driving, unfortunately, comes more frequent motor breakdowns. And, as a result, the concept of motor breakdown insurance has gained substantial traction.
However, many drivers question the value of this type of insurance and if it’s really worth it.
No one can really answer that question definitively because everyone’s situation is different, what’s worth it to one person might not be worth it for you. But there are a few things that could help you better assess whether breakdown cover is right for you.
In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of motor breakdown insurance and how it could benefit you. We’ll cover:
- What is motor breakdown insurance?
- I use my vehicle for work, can I take out a motor breakdown policy?
- How much does motor breakdown insurance cost?
- Where can I buy motor breakdown insurance?
- Is motor breakdown cover really worth it?
What is motor breakdown insurance?
Motor breakdown insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides assistance in the event of vehicle mechanical failure. The services covered can range from roadside assistance and towing to home start services and onward travel arrangements (however, these policy features do differ depending on the provider).
The objective of this type of insurance is to minimize inconvenience and ensure that you’re not stranded due to a vehicle breakdown.
Also see: What are the benefits of motor breakdown insurance
I use my vehicle for work, can I take out a motor breakdown policy?
Yes! There are specialised policies like taxi breakdown insurance, hire and reward breakdown cover and driving instructor breakdown cover which are tailored to meet the specific needs of professional drivers.
For example, taxi breakdown insurance might include features that prioritise getting the taxi back on the road swiftly to reduce loss of income, while driving instructor breakdown cover might offer replacement dual-control vehicles so that lessons can continue with minimal disruption.
However, it’s important to note that breakdown cover for these types of professionals usually comes at a greater cost than standard cover.
How much does motor breakdown insurance cost?
The cost of motor breakdown insurance can vary widely based on a few factors, including the level of cover, the age and condition of the vehicle, the driver’s history and who the provider is.
Basic cover might start from under £25 per year (Save More Money, 2023), offering roadside assistance and local recovery. However, more comprehensive policies that include home start services, nationwide recovery, and onward travel could cost significantly more.
As we previously mentioned, for professionals like taxi drivers and driving instructors, the cost may be slightly higher due to the higher mileage, increased usage of their vehicles and the need for additional specialised features.
While the cost of a policy is important (after all you need to be able to financially cover your premiums), it’s also important to consider the potential savings in the event of a breakdown. Without insurance, the cost of a single tow and repair could far exceed the annual premium of breakdown cover.
Where can I buy motor breakdown insurance?
Motor breakdown insurance is readily available across the UK from various providers.
Comparison Websites: Websites like MoneySuperMarket and CompareTheMarket allow you to compare policies from multiple providers to find the best deal.
When purchasing taxi breakdown insurance or driving instructor breakdown cover, it’s advisable to look for providers that specialize in commercial vehicle insurance, as they’re more likely to understand and cater to the specific needs of professional drivers.
Is motor breakdown Insurance worth it?
Unfortunately, we can’t tell you that motor breakdown is definitely worth it because we don’t know everyone’s individual circumstances. But, if you need help determining whether breakdown cover is the right policy for you, considering the following factors could help:
Convenience:
If your vehicle breaks down, having a policy means help is easier to draw upon. This is especially critical for taxi drivers and driving instructors, whose livelihood depends on their vehicle’s reliability.
Cost savings:
Compare the cost of an annual premium to the potential costs of paying for recovery and repairs without insurance. For many, the insurance provides a cost-effective safety net.
Peace of mind:
Knowing that you’re covered in the event of a breakdown can provide significant peace of mind, particularly if you regularly drive in remote areas or during odd hours.
Also See: What is breakdown cover for driving instructors?
Additional benefits:
Some policies offer extra perks like car rental discounts, free legal advice, or discounts on car repairs and servicing.
Frequency of use:
If you’re someone who drives infrequently or mostly within urban areas with easy access to garages and public transport, you might question the value of breakdown cover. Conversely, regular or long-distance drivers might find it more beneficial.
For professional drivers, the equation might lean more towards necessity. Taxi breakdown insurance is not just a convenience but a vital component of business continuity. Similarly, driving instructors can’t afford to cancel lessons due to car issues, making driving instructor breakdown cover usually a wise investment.
Conclusion
Motor breakdown insurance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Its value depends on individual circumstances, driving habits and risk tolerance. For the everyday driver, it’s a matter of weighing the costs against the benefits and convenience it offers. For professionals like taxi drivers and driving instructors, however, the balance is more likely to tip in favour of securing a policy.
If you’re interested in a motor breakdown insurance policy that’s both comprehensive and affordable, Save More Money could have just the thing you’re looking for from £24.88 a month.
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