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What is Roadside Assistance in Car Insurance?

This blog explains roadside assistance in car insurance, covering services like towing, battery jumpstart, tyre and fuel help, and lockout support, along with its benefits, exclusions, and importance for safe and convenient travel.

  • 06 Oct 2016
  • 3 min read
  • 3834 views

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.

What is roadside assistance cover in insurance?

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. 

What’s covered in roadside assistance?

Here are some features of the Road Side Assistance cover (RSA) .

  • Towing Service

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.

  • Battery Jump Start

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.

  • Flat Tyre Assistance

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.

  • Fuel Delivery

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.

  • Lockout Service

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.

  • Emergency Message Relay

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.

  • Hotel Accommodation

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.

What are the exclusions of RSA in insurance?

While RSA offers extensive support, it's important to be aware of common exclusions, which may include:

  • Non-Mechanical Issues: Problems unrelated to mechanical or electrical failures, such as routine maintenance.
  • Unattended Vehicles: Assistance may not be provided if the vehicle is unattended when help arrives.
  • Unauthorised Repairs: Costs incurred from repairs not arranged through the RSA service may not be covered.
  • Repeated Service Requests: Frequent requests for the same service within a short period may be excluded.
  • Commercial Use: Vehicles used for commercial purposes might not be eligible for RSA under personal insurance policies.

Reviewing your car insurance terms and conditions to understand the specific exclusions applicable to your RSA cover is crucial.

What are the benefits of getting RSA?

Opting for roadside assistance provides several advantages:

  • Convenience: Immediate help reduces the time and stress associated with vehicle breakdowns.
  • Safety: Professional assistance ensures that issues are handled safely, especially in unfamiliar or hazardous locations.
  • Cost-Effective: Many services, such as towing and minor repairs, are covered under roadside assistance, potentially saving you significant out-of-pocket expenses.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that help is available 24/7 allows for more confident and worry-free travel.

Incorporating roadside assistance into your car insurance policy enhances your overall coverage and provides valuable support during unexpected situations on the road.

Conclusion

Roadside assistance is a useful add-on for ensuring safe and peaceful journeys. 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. Repair costs incurred from non-network garages will be borne by you. In case of an 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 topic featured in the article. 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.

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