Roadside assistance

Breakdown cover is a service that provides assistance to motorists whose vehicles have broken down and need urgent help. In most areas, the service is provided by commercial service providers, with an annual fee to purchase the service. In some areas, there is a government-sponsored monopoly, and the service may come in the form of an insurance policy with premiums, instead of a member subscription fee. In Europe, it is popularly available via each country's national automobile membership association. Many automobile manufacturers offer roadside assistance for their customers, sometimes for free for some period after the purchase of a new vehicle.

United Kingdom AA roadside assistance

The term breakdown cover is most common in the United Kingdom, elsewhere, it may also be referred to as emergency roadside repair or roadside assistance. When communication technology and availability made it practical, a network of emergency phone boxes by the roadside was introduced in some countries. In recent years, the widespread ownership of mobile phones has supplanted the need for an emergency phone network.

Breakdown cover may include jump starting an automobile, towing a vehicle, helping to change a flat tire, providing a small amount of fuel when a vehicle runs out of it, pulling out a vehicle that is stuck in snow or helping people who are locked out of their cars.

Roadside assistance:Good morning!

Woman: Good morning is this the AA?

Roadside assistance: Yes, madam. You are speaking to George. How can I help?

Woman: Well, I hope you can. My car has just broken down on the M20 at junction 12. I’m on the hard shoulder of the motor way and my car just will not start.

Roadside assistance: Don’t worry! We can have someone with you in less than twenty minutes. Can I take some details please?

Woman: Yes.

Roadside assistance: Can you tell me the car registration number and the make of car, please?

Woman: Yes, it is a Renault Espace and the registration number is LM 01 MFP.

Roadside assistance: Thank you.  I will call an engineer now to come and get you on your way.

Woman: Oh, thank you so much.