Schuetz

Until quite recently the choices for breakdown cover where limited to two major companies, the AA and the RAC. Even today they are the two most popular choices of motorists. However there are others creeping in, for example Green Flag from the supermarket Tesco is just one of those bringing more competition to the market.

With the average cost of breakdown cover costing around 35 and the typical cost of recovery being around 70 then it could be worthwhile taking out motor breakdown cover.

When choosing cover there are a few things you should take into account before selecting which provider to go with. For example, the average response time to reach you should be around 20 to 40 minutes so it is worthwhile checking this out.

If you go beyond anything but the very basic cover then it can get quite complicated. However typical things you can watch out for include whether the policy includes home recovery. This means that your car will be repaired should it break down while at home or near your home.

Is the cost of alternative transport included in your policy? For example, if your car cannot be fixed immediately, do you get a hire car or will the company transport you to your destination?

Does the price include the breakdown service getting in touch with friends or family members to let them know you are stranded and will be late?

Also, look out for whether the policy is vehicle based or people based. Some of the larger providers offer this type of cover. If vehicle based, then it is the car that has the cover, no matter who the driver. If it is people based, then the person who is covered could be in any vehicle when they call out the breakdown cover.

And finally, does the cover include the cost of breakdown if you are on the continent? Once you have checked out the cover and you can make an educated choice as to which of the options best suits your circumstances.

Louis Rix is a Director of Netcars.co.uk, one of the UK's leading motoring websites. First established in January 2000, its mission is to become the UK's number one site for used car searches and motoring information. Netcars also provide Car Loans, finance and insurance.