All you need to know about towing coverage in the Philippines

In the Philippines, road mishaps are not uncommon, and they can happen to anyone at any time. From minor accidents to unexpected breakdowns, these incidents often leave the driver stranded and stressed. And this is where towing coverage comes into play. It is an essential part of the comprehensive car insurance policy and ensures that you are not left helpless on the road. Thus providing the car owners much-needed peace of mind and security.

In this article, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about towing coverage in the Philippines, from its importance and benefits to choosing the right coverage for your needs.

So, without any delay let us discuss towing coverage in the Philippines in detail -

Understanding towing coverage

Car insurance companies in the Philippines offer towing coverage as an add-on feature to the applicants. Under this coverage, they provide them with roadside assistance and towing services in case the vehicle is damaged or inoperable.

It is an essential and recommended coverage in the Philippines where traffic congestion and challenging road conditions are quite common.

Importance of towing coverage

Getting towing coverage as part of your comprehensive insurance policy is crucial for several reasons including,

Offers car owners peace of mind

When a car owner knows that he/she has access to assistance in case of a breakdown or accident, it gives the required peace of mind on the road.

Financial protection

Calling for a towing service at the time of a breakdown or accident can be quite expensive, however with towing coverage in hand, a car owner can save him/herself from this costly affair.

Convenience

Towing coverage minimises the hassle of arranging a tow and makes sure immediate help is available to the driver at the time of need.

Safety

Towing coverage ensures that the car owner is not left stranded in a potentially unsafe location.

Advantages of towing coverage

Vehicle towing coverage in the event of an accident or breakdown has several benefits including -

24/7 availability

Most towing services in the Philippines operate 24/7, providing you with round-the-clock assistance no matter when or where the concerned vehicle encounters problems.

Emergency roadside assistance

Towing coverage often includes emergency roadside assistance services, such as battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout services, which could be very useful.

Cost-effective

The cost of a standalone towing service can be high. Towing coverage bundled with your car insurance offers a more economical solution.

Nationwide service network

Insurance companies with towing coverage typically have a nationwide network of service providers, ensuring help is available regardless of your location in the Philippines.

Types of towing coverage offered

Depending on the insurance provider chosen by an applicant, the towing covered may vary widely. There are three common types of towing coverage available in the Philippines including -

Basic towing coverage

Like its name, the basic towing coverage offers towing services up to a certain distance or cost limit. It is ideal for drivers who want basic protection without additional services.

Comprehensive towing coverage

It is a bit more advanced than basic towing, comprehensive towing coverage includes a wider range of services such as emergency repairs, fuel delivery, and accommodation assistance. It is suitable for drivers who frequently travel long distances.

Specialised towing coverage

Unlike the basic and comprehensive towing coverage, this one has no listed set of inclusions. On the other hand, it offers tailored services for specific needs, such as towing for high-end vehicles or motorcycles.

Choosing the right towing coverage

Several factors must be considered when choosing towing coverage by car owners. Included in the list are -

Assess your vehicle’s condition

Compared to new vehicles, older or less reliable vehicles usually require more extensive towing services.

Evaluate your driving habits

An applicant must consider how often and how far he/she usually drives. Usually, frequent travellers gain more benefits from more comprehensive insurance coverage.

Compare different providers

It is advisable to always review the offerings of different insurance providers. Look for those with good reputations, extensive service networks, and positive customer reviews.

Know the policy limits

Last but not least understand the limitations of each policy, including distance caps and service frequency.

Common exclusions in towing coverage

To avoid sudden surprises, it is essential to be aware of common exclusions in the towing coverage. The list mostly includes -

Commercial vehicle

Vehicles that are used for commercial purposes might require specialised towing coverage.

Non-operational vehicles

Vehicles not properly maintained or abandoned are often excluded from towing coverage.

Off-road incidents

Incidents or issues occurring off-road may not be covered under towing coverage.

Unauthorised tows

Towing services not authorised by the insurer are not covered under the policy.

Tips to best utilise your towing coverage

In order to make the most of your towing coverage, an applicant must keep in mind the following points -

Keep insurers contact information handy

It is essential to always have your insurance provider’s contact information easily accessible in your vehicle. If not, you’ll lose out on the opportunity to take advantage of your policy and end up paying from your own pocket for the towing service.

Know your policy

It is important to familiarise yourself with the specifics of your towing coverage, including limitations and exclusions.

Regular vehicle maintenance

Car owners are advised to regularly check-ups/servicing of their vehicles. This will prevent avoidable breakdowns and ensure the validity of the coverage.

Step-by-step guide to using towing coverage

It is very essential to understand the process of using your towing coverage, as it can streamline an applicant’s experience during emergencies (accident/breakdown).

Step 1: Contact your insurer

In a situation of a breakdown or accident where your car requires assistance, immediately contact your insurance provider’s emergency hotline. Provide your policy details and the nature of your issue.

Step 2: Wait for assistance to arrive

The insurance provider will dispatch the towing service to the location soon after the applicant reaches out to them. Until then ensure you are in a safe spot while waiting.

Step 3: Towing & repair

Once the tow truck arrives, the vehicle will be transported to a repair facility or your desired location.

Cost associated with towing coverage

The cost of adding towing coverage to a car’s insurance policy depends on several factors including -

• Vehicle type: Usually larger and more expensive vehicles incur higher premiums compared to basic models.
• Coverage type: Basic coverage is always cheaper than comprehensive coverage offered in the market.
• Provider: Different insurance providers have varied coverage rates

Conclusion

Towing coverage is an invaluable part of a comprehensive car insurance policy in the Philippines. It ensures that a car owner is never left stranded during unexpected vehicular issues, providing them peace of mind, convenience, and financial protection. However, it is essential to understand the different types of towing coverage, assess the needs, and choose the right provider, as all this will ensure that an applicant is well-prepared for a road mishap.

Also Read: Car insurance scams in the Philippines: What you need to know