first call breakdown cover

runrabbitrun

Hi All,

First took out break down cover with first call 2 weeks ago after they gave us a good quote online.(or so i thought.)

Other half broke down friday night on the m6 motorway (120 miles from home) and 100 miles to mine and first call came out within 40 mins. Had a look at the car and although it was a broken fan belt for a renault megane scenic couldnt fix it at the side of the road. They said they could tow it to a garage to get fixed on the saturday morning but couldnt guarantee that it was fixable.

Anyway, we decided that best plan would be to get towed to his house where at least if the car wasnt fixable, then he would be in the right part of the country for work on the monday. (as there is no guarantee what the car would be able to be booked into a garage on the saturday morning.)

So, once back at home (having been towed the 120 miles) the OH was able to fix the car himself, taking 15 mins.
this morning he receives a bill from the first call people asking us to pay £100 for towing him back home. Even though the policy states they will take you to your 'onward destination.'

Are we entitled to any money back from the break down people? If we are going to have to pay £100 odd each time the car breaks down, despite having cover, then is it even worth it?

Cant afford to pay another £90 to take out another policy with the AA, so wondering what the best option is.
Any help?

hjb123

You could try asking them why they have charged you although I suspect it will be that he was towed home rather than to the nearest available garage. It will also depend on the level of cover that you applied for.

runrabbitrun

we took out the highest level of cover available -platinum
Do we stick with them or go with another company?

hjb123

I would see what they have to say for themselves - there must be some sort of a clause in the contract which is why they have charged you that amount - have you asked them why?

Have you paid quite alot for the cover then? I would probably stick with them rather than change - after all you have already paid for the cover!

Astaroth

You have to ask why they have charged you for a towing. £100 for 120 is certainly below the going rate for towing by a long way so may be this is an excess? Can only guess and assume it isnt a mistake.