Will Requesting Roadside Assistance Take Away My No Claim Bonus?

No, requesting roadside assistance will not take away your no claim bonus (NCB). Roadside assistance is a service provided as part of your insurance policy, not a separate claim that impacts your NCB. In fact, these services are designed to protect you and keep your car running smoothly.

Understanding Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is a valuable benefit often included in comprehensive insurance packages. These services are typically provided by your insurance company or authorized third-party providers. They can cover a range of emergencies that arise while driving, such as towing, fuel delivery, tire changes, and even lockouts. Unlike a claim, which involves an incident causing damage to your vehicle and necessitating a repair, roadside assistance is a proactive safety measure that helps you avoid being stranded on the road.

No Claim Bonus (NCB): Key to Saving on Insurance

No claim bonus is a valuable discount offered by insurers to policyholders who maintain a clean claim record over a certain period. Typically, this means not filing any claims during your policy term, except for routine services such as tire changes or fuel delivery. Insurers reward this consistent behavior with a reduced premium at the time of renewal. However, if you do file a claim for a major incident, your NCB can be significantly reduced, or even rescinded.

Services That Do Not Affect NCB

When it comes to roadside assistance services, the key is to differentiate between serious claims and routine services. For instance:

Towing: This can be a major claim and will affect your NCB. If your vehicle breaks down far from home and requires towing, this can be considered a significant incident. Tire Changes: If you accidentally get a flat tire and need to use a spare or a tire change service offered by roadside assistance, it generally will not affect your NCB. The same applies to replacing a tire or delivering fuel to prevent running out of gas. Lockouts: In the event that you lock your keys in your car and need roadside assistance to retrieve them, this is a minor, routine service that will not impact your NCB.

When Does Your NCB Get Affected?

Your no claim bonus can be affected if you file a claim for a significant incident or accident. In these cases, the insurance company may require you to serve a waiting period before you can receive another NCB. The specifics of this waiting period can vary depending on the policy and the severity of the claim.

Key Takeaways and Advice

Routine Services: Services like fuel delivery, tire changes, and lockout assistance are typically not considered claims and will not impact your NCB. Major Claims: If you file a claim for a significant incident or accident, your NCB may be affected. Always report incidents appropriately to your insurer to avoid misinterpretation. Proactive Driving: Regularly using and understanding the scope of your roadside assistance can help you avoid emergencies and maintain a consistent claim-free record.

By staying informed about what is and isn't a claim, you can better protect your no claim bonus and continue to enjoy the benefits of comprehensive insurance coverage without unintended consequences.