European breakdown cover is a great idea for anyone considering driving their car across to Europe. You may be able to buy standard breakdown polices that include up to 90 days European travel for an extra premium, whilst some companies offer stand-alone European breakdown policies that cover you for the specific dates of your trip. Premiums may be based on the country that you are travelling to; for example, cover for driving in the Republic of Ireland may be set at a lower premium than that for Greece.
Although some elements of cover will differ slightly from company to company, in general they all provide at least the following assistance:
- Roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown.
- Garage labour up to a particular amount (e.g. £150).
- Repatriation for you, your passengers and your vehicle to the UK.
More comprehensive packages may include:
- An allowance to cover the costs of a hire car should your car breakdown on your way to a UK port and can't be repaired.
- Additional accommodation costs whilst your car is being repaired.
- An allowance to cover the costs for you to continue your journey or return home to the UK.
- Arrangement of a replacement driver in the event of the qualified driver being taken ill.
- Travel expenses if you have to leave your vehicle abroad for repair and collect it at a later date.
It's worth bearing in mind that some European motorways (particularly in France) are privately managed and the motorway authorities have to arrange help for you through the official motorway rescue service. However, the cost of the tow off the motorway can usually be claimed back within the policy benefit limits. Once you are off the motorway, you are usually advised to contact your breakdown company for further help.
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