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How Quickly Can I Claim on My Breakdown Cover?

It is vital to have breakdown cover to give you peace of mind while driving, as it guarantees that you will get help if your vehicle suddenly breaks down. If you are new to breakdown cover, or about to buy a breakdown cover policy, it is important to understand when you can claim so you aren’t left stranded in unfamiliar circumstances.

In our comprehensive guide, you can find out more about whether you can use your ALA breakdown policy straight away from purchase, whether it is available from purchase, and whether or not you can purchase breakdown cover if your car has already broken down. We will also help you decide on the best breakdown cover for you, and how our policies at ALA can help.

Can I Use My Breakdown Cover Right Away?

It is determined by the policy terms when you can use your breakdown cover at ALA. The majority of breakdown policies come with a waiting period before being operational, so you have to look into your policy document. For example, if you choose our Roadside and Recovery cover, the recovery element will not be available until 48 hours after you have purchased your policy.

At ALA, your breakdown cover will become effective immediately or after an immediate waiting period, depending on when you want cover to start. This is because you will be given the choice for coverage to start immediately, or at a date that suits you best. If immediate cover is triggered, you can call for assistance as soon as you require it. But if you have a waiting period, you must wait until the specified time has passed before you can call for assistance.

No matter when your cover starts, you cannot claim if your car has already broken down. You can start building your breakdown policy quote here.

Car problems, red warning triangle!

Does Breakdown Cover Start Immediately?

At ALA, we pride ourselves on providing straightforward and reliable breakdown cover. If you prefer instant cover, ensure that you select a date that explicitly states that it begins at the point of sale.

Even if your policy has a waiting period, we will still give you peace of mind by making you insured for future breakdowns once the waiting period is over. Reading the policy terms before purchasing will allow you to understand when your coverage becomes effective.

Can I Get Breakdown Cover if my Car is Already Broken Down?

If your car has already broken down, you may be wondering if you can purchase breakdown cover at the last minute and still receive assistance. At ALA, we do not cover pre-existing breakdowns. This means that if your car has already broken down before purchasing a policy, you will not be covered under that cover.

Alternatively, it is preferable to have a policy in place before the breakdown. It is this proactive approach that ensures you can obtain instant help if you do experience a problem while driving. If your vehicle is already broken down, then you will need to arrange for an individual recovery service separately beforehand before your breakdown cover comes into effect for future incidents.

Find out more about our breakdown cover policies here.

A gray car with its hood open parked by the side of the road

What Breakdown Cover is Best for Me?

Choosing the right breakdown cover is based on your type of driving, vehicle age, and the protection required. we offer various breakdown cover options to cater to the various requirements, including:

Roadside Assistance: When you experience a breakdown somewhere else apart from your home, a professional mechanic will attempt to fix the car in front of you. If urgent fixing is not possible, your car will be taken to the nearest garage.

Roadside and Recovery: If your car cannot be repaired at the roadside, you and your passengers will be driven to any destination within the UK for repairs. The recovery element of this cover is not available until 48 after the policy has commended.

Total UK: Everything included in the Roadside and Recovery policy is available in the policy, as well as cover if your vehicle breaks down at home, alternative travel and overnight accommodation if needed.

Total UK and Europe: This policy includes everything covered in a Total UK policy, but it can be applied if you break down in another European country.

When selecting a policy, consider how far you drive on average, if you drive passengers, and how long you rely on your vehicle. ALA Insurance provides flexible options to ensure that you obtain the best degree of protection for your situation.

You can find out more about our breakdown coverage options here.

Breakdown Cover at ALA

ALA Insurance is a trusted breakdown cover provider, and we offer policies to meet most requirements. Breakdown cover that we offer includes:

  • Fast and reliable service: Specialist assistance whenever you need it.
  • Full coverage choices: Choose from various levels of coverage to match your personal needs.
  • UK-wide support: Breakdown cover throughout the UK to give you peace of mind wherever you travel.
  • European breakdown cover: If you’re travelling overseas, you can take out European breakdown cover for extra reassurance.

By taking out an ALA breakdown policy before you go, you know that you’ll be ready in case of any unexpected vehicle breakdowns. With various levels of cover to choose from, you can choose a policy to match your driving patterns and budget.

To learn more about our breakdown cover and obtain the most competitive offer for you, visit our website today.

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