Know how to get the best Road Side Assistance coverage
A World Health Organisation (WHO) report states that 16.6 people per lakh died in road accidents in India in 2013-14. These numbers are staggering even for a populous country like ours. To battle this, various insurers have introduced add-on services to the base motor insurance policy, and road side assistance is one such feature.
A boon in times of need, road side assistance is an additional service provided in case of breakdown or accident. It is especially beneficial when you are stranded and in need of external help. Here are some features of the Road Side Assistance cover (RSA) offered by ICICI Lombard:
If the vehicle is immobilized due to an accident or electrical/mechanical failure, the vehicle is towed free to the nearest garage up to 50 km.
In the event where the car suffers a breakdown due to dead or weak battery, you can call the support centre to jumpstart your vehicle. However, if the battery needs replacement, this cost will be borne by you.
In case the vehicle has a flat tyre, an assistant technician brings along a spare tyre to be replaced, on the spot. However, in case no replacements available, you will have to transport the faulty tyre to the nearest garage for repair and reattachment, the cost of which will be borne by you.
If your vehicle is immobilised due to an empty fuel tank, the road support will send a technician for an emergency fuel delivery. The quantity varies as per your car insurance policy and the cost of fuel will be borne by you.
In case you are locked outside your car, the road side assistance cover helps you arrange for a spare key. At the time of delivery, you will have to provide a registered ID proof before availing the service.
Under this service, your messages will be relayed to your emergency contact or a contact of your choice. This service comes handy in the event of an accident and if there is a need of medical help.
One of the new age services provided by insurers wherein you will be provided hotel accommodation, in case the vehicle cannot be repaired on the same day. This is applicable however, if you are outstation when the breakdown occurs and can’t return home. The cost of stay will be borne by you.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Your first preference for repairs should be with a network garage of your insurer.
- Before going for long drives, especially with family, always seek out a backup garage in case there is no network garage nearby.
- Store your repair documents/bills carefully to make a claim.
- Repairs costs incurred from non-network garages will be borne by you.
- In case of accident or breakdown, make sure you call your insurer immediately.
- Do not pay any repair charges to the repairman from a network garage, unless specified by your insurer.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.