Last year, we took out ADAC 'Partner Plus' breakdown cover, and included our two teenage sons on what I took to be a family policy.
This year, five or six weeks prior to renwal, we received documents through the post, apparently billing us separately: 79,50 for my husband, 19,20 for myself and 19,00 for our son, who was now aged nineteen.
I emailed several times, informing them that our son should not be included in the renewal this year and asking if I could pay a single premium, as per last year. After umpteen email attempts, all of which went unanswered, I telephoned Germany and explained the situation. I was informed that our son was now considered an independent customer and, since he had not personally written to inform them, 3 months prior to renewal, that he did not wish to continue a policy in his own right, he would now have to pay the 19 euros premium.
I argued that he had never entered into independent agreement with them, and that he was simply a named child on our family policy.
My account was debited a single payment of 98,50 and I thought that was that. Except, now our son has been billed for 19 euros.
So, just a heads up, to anyone who is thinking of naming teenage children for free inclusion on their ADAC policy; remember to get THEM to write (apparently it has to be a written communication, delivered by surface mail!), at least 3 months prior to renewal, stating they do NOT wish to continue a policy in their own right, once they attain 19 years of age.
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ADAC have strict terms and conditions about renewal - three months notice of cancellation - and everyone who takes out their policy should be aware of this. I don't think I've noticed the 'teenage children' bit, as it doesn't apply to us. I suppose as a 'Members Club' rather than an organisation they have different terms and conditions to most insurers.
Actually, though, by renewing now, you''ve saved yourselves a few euros because ADAC have put up their prices for 2014!
(No idea why I even bothered to name our two teenage sons,to be honest. Our eldest never drives our car anyhow and the youngest is too young to drive! I think I was just in a hurry to get it organised, last year, and when I saw the section to name children and have them included in the cover for free, I just filled in their details thinking it must relate to naming passengers/family members who'd potentially be in the car if it broke down! )
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This sounds similar to the situation that applies to all motor insurance policies in Belgium, where the law is that a motor insurance policy will automatically be renewed unless the customer informs the insurance company in writing by surface mail a minimum of 3 months in advance of the renewal date that they do not wish to renew the policy and all the insurance companies are very strict in their application of this law.
It's not so much the 3 month notice period which concerns me, it's about their instigating an independent policy for any teenage children who are named (for 'free') on a family policy, once they reach 19 years of age. And insisting that the young person must be the one to opt out (within the 3 month ruling), despite them never having organised the policy in the first place!
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Yes it is quite OK to join as a UK resident we have been members for 6 years now and cannot speak highly enough of their service. Having used them twice.
Don't forget to leave a review of the French and other European campsites you have visited!
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: ADAC European Breakdown - Beware!
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