All About Roadside Assistance in Car Insurance
The comprehensive car insurance package usually provides roadside assistance as an add-on cover.
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What is Roadside Assistance Add-On Cover?
Roadside Assistance (RSA) is a highly useful add-on cover that provides 24/7 emergency services to car owners in case their vehicle breaks down or faces a mechanical issue. Getting stuck in an unfamiliar location with no mechanic nearby can be extremely stressful without. In such situations, RSA cover proves to be very helpful.
The Roadside Assistance add-on is not part of a standard insurance policy and needs to be purchased separately with your comprehensive car insurance for an additional premium. This cover does not provide any form of financial compensation. Its main purpose is to offer quick roadside assistance to the insured and resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Key Features and Benefits of RSA in Car Insurance
The RSA in car insurance includes the following services:
- Flat Tyre Assistance: Whenever a driver experiences a flat tyre, a mechanic is sent to the scene to either fix or replace the tyre, enabling the driver to continue their journey.
- Fuel Delivery: If a vehicle runs out of fuel, RSA provides limited fuel (e.g., up to five litres) to reach the nearest fuel station.
- Battery Jumpstart: RSA arranges for a jumpstart or minor battery repairs for vehicles that fail to start due to battery issues.
- Minor On-Site Repairs: When there are just minor mechanical or electrical issues, a technician will be dispatched to the spot to fix the problem.
- Accommodation or Travel Arrangements: In rare cases where repairs take longer, RSA may arrange hotel stays or alternative transport, subject to policy terms.
- Towing Services: For vehicles immobilised by an accident or breakdown and unrepairable at the scene, RSA covers towing to the closest authorised garage, usually within a limited radius (e.g., 25 kilometres).
What Roadside Assistance Does Not Cover?
To make informed decisions about roadside assistance (RSA), understanding its limitations is essential. This cover does not include:
- Losses due to theft or those covered by manufacturer warranties, recalls, or other insurance policies.
- Costs for parts, materials, or repairs done without insurer approval.
- Services used without prior insurer consent or for vehicles driven without the owner's permission.
- Claims exceeding the policy's limit on the number of RSA uses per year (e.g., 4-6 times, depending on the insurer).
- Incidents involving a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Claims for vehicles used in racing, rallying, or illegal activities.
- Issues from natural disasters, human-caused events, or government actions.
How to Use Your Roadside Assistance Add-On Cover?
When your vehicle breaks down, roadside assistance (RSA) ensures quick help. Follow these easy steps to use your RSA cover effectively:
- Call the Insurer's Helpline: Call your insurer's 24/7 toll-free number. If you have bought your car insurance from Policybazaar, you can dial 1800-258-5881. Keep your policy number and vehicle registration details ready.
- Explain the Problem: Describe the issue, such as a flat tyre, dead battery, or fuel shortage, and share your exact location.
- Wait for Verification: The insurer will confirm your policy details to ensure you are eligible for RSA services.
- Receive Assistance: A mechanic or towing service will be sent to your location to fix the issue or tow your vehicle to a nearby authorised garage.
Important Things to Know About RSA
To ensure you use roadside assistance (RSA) effectively, it is helpful to understand its key aspects and limitations.
- Using RSA does not affect your No Claim Bonus (NCB), as it is not treated as a motor claim.
- RSA is designed for emergencies like breakdowns or lockouts.
- Labour costs are typically covered, but you may need to pay for materials like fuel or spare parts.
How to Add RSA to an Existing or New Car Insurance Policy
You can easily add a roadside assistance (RSA) add-on cover to your car insurance policy through Policybazaar by following a few simple steps:
- Step 1: Visit Policybazaar.com and click on "Car Insurance" located on the homepage.
- Step 2: Enter your car number for an existing car, or select "Brand New Car" and choose the correct variant and fuel type.
- Step 3: Look for add-ons and click on "24x7 Roadside Assistance" to proceed further.
- Step 4: Choose a plan from the list and add any other desired add-ons if you wish.
- Step 5: Make your payment using UPI, net banking, or credit/debit cards.
- Step 6: After successful payment confirmation, you will receive your RSA add-on policy immediately via email.
Final Words
Roadside assistance is a practical and affordable add-on in car insurance that enhances your comprehensive car insurance, offering peace of mind during unexpected breakdowns. By understanding its benefits, exclusions, and usage, you can ensure seamless support on the road.
