Can i extend my AA breakdown cover to France?

Can i extend my AA breakdown cover to France?

• I'm going to France in my car in a few weeks time. Does the AA cover France and can i extend my cover. If not, what do i do if i break down. Thanks.

• Answer:

  Get in touch with the AA and extend your cover to France. It will cost a few pounds (how much depends on how long you will be in France) but every penny is worth it. A few years ago we broke down in Limoges and rang the AA from the nearest call box. It cost 1 franc (I said it was a few years ago!) but when your call is finished, yet get your money back! The chap we spoke to at AA was able from a few bits of info, such as the name of the nearest bus stop, to locate our exact position and in about an hour (and this was on a Saturday in August) a mechanic arrived and fixed the problem. As part of the deal the AA cover booklet includes vouchers with which you "pay" for the work done and so you are not out of pocket. Their people at their control HQ are all mechanics fluent in the language of the country where you are so can converse, if necessary, with the mechanic or garage if you need to be taken into one. An alternative to the AA is Europ Assistance who are also excellent, but I would stick to the AA. Also, don't forget to inform your insurance company that you are going to France so they can issue you with a "Green Card" which extends your insurance cover to Europe. This may also cost more altho' some insurers, such as Lloyds Bank, do no charge but most, such as Direct Line, do charge.