23 December 2008
Motor insurer RAC is urging drivers to consider taking out breakdown cover alongside their car insurance policies. Unlike car insurance, breakdown cover is not required by law, so many motorists may be tempted not to purchase it in an effort to cut their motoring costs. But, according to the Guardian, RAC warns that hundreds of motorists could miss or turn up late to family gatherings this Christmas because of their failure to secure emergency breakdown insurance. Female drivers aged 18 to 24 are particularly at risk there are least likely to purchase such cover, the insurance provider claims. Iain Vale, RAC's patrolman of the year, says: "Many drivers are so ill-prepared for what to do if they break down - some end up calling their insurer and taking out cover on the spot, which isn't ideal." AA patrolman Andy Taylor recently advised motorists travelling long distances this Christmas to make sure their car battery is fully charged before setting off, as this is a common cause of breakdowns. Consumers looking for a competitive deal on their car insurance or a policy that includes breakdown cover should compare premiums online.