• If you own a car or are considering purchasing one, you might encounter the term roadside assistance. Roadside Assistance (RSA) is a service that provides essential help to the car owner when their vehicle breaks down or experiences a mechanical failure. Without this coverage, it can be quite challenging for the car owner to be left stranded in unfamiliar locations without any way to reach a mechanic. In such cases, having an RSA plan is incredibly beneficial.

• Typically, the RSA service is a standard feature of most comprehensive car insurance policies. While third-party insurance is mandatory, having comprehensive car insurance is critical for offering extensive coverage for your vehicle. However, standard comprehensive car insurance plans generally do not include RSA; you must purchase it as an additional component of your foundational car insurance policy.

What is Covered Under RSA?

Once you grasp the concept of RSA, the next step is to determine what is included and what is not. Here are some typical events covered by RSA:

1. Fuel delivery

If you possess car insurance that includes RSA and deplete your fuel supply, the insurance provider will arrange to deliver up to five litres of fuel to your location. The specific amount of fuel and the allowable instances you can request the service vary according to your policy’s terms and conditions. *

2. Mechanical or electrical breakdown

If your vehicle breaks down either on the road or at home, the insurance provider will send a mechanic to fix it at the breakdown site right away. You may either jump-start your vehicle or have it towed to the nearest service garage. Common repairs often consist of minor electrical or mechanical fixes, battery problems, or replacing a flat tyre. *

3. Alternate vehicle

If your vehicle is being repaired and you need to get to your destination urgently, or if repairs will take too long, you can reach out to your insurance provider. Your insurer will arrange for an alternate vehicle to ensure you get to your destination. *

4. Towing

If your vehicle insurance includes RSA and your car is involved in an accident or breakdown, your insurance provider may organize the towing for you. Your vehicle might be towed to a nearby network garage or another authorized service center. *

5. Medical assistance

If your insured vehicle is immobilized and you require immediate medical help, you can contact your insurer. They will arrange it for you. However, the medical expenses and treatment costs are generally the responsibility of the policyholder or their health insurance provider. *

6. Arrangement of a hotel stay

If your vehicle is undergoing repairs and the process is taking too long, you can reach out to your insurance provider. Depending on the situation, your insurer may arrange for hotel accommodations near the garage where your car is being serviced. However, based on the policy’s conditions, the cost of accommodation may be covered by you or your insurance company. *

How to Buy Roadside Assistance Add-on?

• Acquiring an RSA insurance add-on is simple and improves your car insurance policy.
• Check availability: Verify that your insurer provides the RSA add-on for your insurance policy.

• Purchase online: Access the Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company’s website. When you are renewing or upgrading your policy, choose the RSA add-on.

• Pay the premium: The additional fee for RSA is minimal in comparison to its benefits.

• Once acquired, the RSA cover offers 24×7 support for breakdowns, which includes towing, fuel delivery, and repairs. Adding this component to your policy is a fantastic approach to ensure trouble-free travel.

Features and Benefits of the RSA Cover

The RSA in car insurance includes many beneficial features:

1. Towing services

Covers the expenses of towing your vehicle to the nearest authorized garage if it cannot be repaired on-site.

2. On-the-spot repairs

Delivers quick solutions for minor problems such as flat tyres or battery issues so you can return to the road.

3. Emergency fuel delivery

Ensures you are not left without fuel if you unexpectedly run out.

4. Lockout assistance

Assists you if you accidentally lock yourself out of your vehicle.

• These advantages render RSA insurance a worthwhile addition, providing support during emergencies and enabling uninterrupted travel. It helps alleviate unnecessary stress, providing convenience and reassurance while driving. With services offered 24×7, RSA ensures you are never alone during roadside emergencies.

Factors to Consider Before Buying A 24×7 Car Breakdown Assistance Cover

Before acquiring a 24×7 roadside assistance (RSA) cover, assess these important elements:

1. Coverage

Review the services included, such as towing, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. If you often take long journeys, these services will be invaluable.

2. Cost

Evaluate the premium for the RSA add-on against its benefits to ensure good value.

3. Availability

Confirm that 24×7 RSA is accessible in the regions you frequently travel.

Conclusion

• The RSA cover proves useful during emergencies. However, it is crucial to understand that the assistance provided by the insurance company must be paid for and is typically not covered by most car insurance plans. For instance, if you utilize the fuel provision through your RSA cover, your insurance provider will supply the necessary fuel; however, you will be responsible for the charges. Additionally, ensure you monitor your car insurance renewal by paying premiums promptly.

FAQs

Which car insurance is best for roadside assistance?

The optimal car insurance for roadside assistance is one that includes a comprehensive RSA insurance add-on. It should offer services such as towing, minor repairs, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance with 24×7 availability nationwide. Verify the insurer’s response time and service range prior to making a purchase.

What is 24×7 roadside assistance?

24×7 roadside assistance is a service provided within car insurance that offers continuous support during breakdowns. It encompasses emergencies like towing, fuel delivery, flat tyre repairs, and lockouts. This guarantees that you are not abandoned and receive prompt assistance regardless of where or when the breakdown happens.