Cross-Border Insurance Terms SG Drivers Should Know Before Accepting a Tow | MyMechanic

Core idea: confirm coverage before movement

• Tow decisions lock in costs and destinations; a 60‑second call to confirm coverage and destination saves hours later.
• Ask for confirmations by message where possible; screenshots beat memories when it’s time to claim.

Terms that matter at the roadside

• Geographical limit: The region or distance where the policy applies; some cover only West Malaysia or set caps from the border—verify reach before long trips.
• Repatriation vs local tow: Repatriation returns the car to Singapore; local tow delivers to a suitable Malaysian workshop—confirm which applies.
• Accident tow vs breakdown tow: Often capped differently; clarify which event the policy recognises.
• Authorised vs any workshop: Some benefits apply only at authorised lists; off‑list choices may reduce claims.
• Excess (deductible): Unapproved moves can affect how excess and coverage apply.
• Per‑event and per‑kilometre limits: Long tows can cross caps quickly—ask for the limit in plain terms.
• Storage and secondary moves: Holding yard fees and second tows may be separate line items.
• Personal effects and add‑ons: Check if personal items are covered while the car changes custody.

What to ask before accepting a tow

• Coverage check: “Does my policy cover a tow from my current location to [nearest suitable/authorised/repatriation to SG]?”
• Limits: “What is the tow limit for this event, and does it include loading, mileage, and after‑hours?”
• Destination: “Which workshops are authorised near me? Can you confirm name and operating hours?”
• Process: “Do you need inspection or photos before moving? Can you confirm by message that the tow is approved?”
• Next steps: “If the workshop is closed, where will the car be stored, and who covers storage?”

Photos to take that make claims smoother

• Four corners with plates visible.
• Close‑ups of issues: tyre, leak, impact, warnings, engine bay.
• Odometer and fuel level.
• Location proof: KM marker or landmark, plus a wide scene shot.
• Job card and tow truck plate before the vehicle leaves.

Decision flow at the roadside

• Safety first: hazards, triangle, and stand clear.
• Contact sequence: insurer for coverage/destination, then assigned provider; confirm via message.
• Approve only after written confirmation of destination, inclusions, and operator details.
• Document handover: keys, job card photo, destination contact, ETA.

When to pause and escalate

• Destination unclear or “TBD.”
• No confirmation of limits or inclusions by message.
• Pressure to load without paperwork or photos.
• Recommended workshop closed with no storage plan.

Smart prep before crossing

• Save contacts: insurer assistance, MyMechanic, and a trusted SG workshop.
• Keep a “tow decision” note with the five questions ready to paste.
• Store policy number and photographed key pages in cloud storage.

How MyMechanic helps SG drivers make the right tow call

• Clear, neutral guidance: confirm coverage questions, suggest wording, and coordinate safe destinations.
• Photo‑first documentation: quick checklists to support claim clarity and reduce disputes.
• End‑to‑end visibility: updates until delivery, with simple handover to the receiving workshop.

Frequently Asked Questions