Breakdown assistance: when is insurance worthwhile?
ADVICE A breakdown is always inconvenient. But is roadside assistance insurance worthwhile? Who will cover you if your car breaks down? The comparison portal Comparis provides information on breakdown services and suitable cover.
The coverage of breakdown service costs depends on the situation. In the event of a car breakdown in Switzerland, the following applies: For members, traffic clubs such as ACS or TCS normally cover the costs. And if your car insurance includes the additional Auto-Assistance cover, it will cover the costs. You then receive breakdown assistance without being a member of a traffic club. If it is a newer car with a warranty claim, for example engine damage, you should contact the manufacturer.
In the case of traffic accidents, the decisive factor is who caused the accident. In any case, you should keep the receipt for the roadside assistance. Injured parties can claim the costs back from the other party's insurance company. In the event of a self-inflicted accident, the liability insurance will cover the towing of the vehicle.
What does roadside assistance cost?
Whether it's a flat car battery, a blown tire or a key forgotten in the car: depending on the breakdown, it can be very expensive. The cost of roadside assistance can range from a few hundred to several thousand francs. Traffic clubs cover the costs for their members. Membership of a traffic club costs from around 85 francs a year. In most cases, there are special discounts for young drivers, families and new members.
Breakdown assistance is often included in car insurance. Providers usually call this cover Assistance or Mobility. Good to know: If a tire bursts due to normal wear and tear, assistance insurance does not cover all consequential costs. As the driver, you are responsible for ensuring that you are on the road with roadworthy tires.
Insurance through a club
Not only the insurance companies, but also three transportation clubs offer roadside assistance in Switzerland: the Touring Club Switzerland, the Swiss Transportation Club and the Automobile Club of Switzerland. For members of these clubs, roadside assistance is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in an emergency. Good to know: Traffic clubs also offer breakdown assistance for third-party vehicles. The breakdown cover provided by car insurance companies, on the other hand, only applies to your own car.
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