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NRMA Broke A 89-Year Tradition, NRMA Data Shows More Break Down In Cold


NRMA Broke A 89-Year Tradition, NRMA Data Shows More Break Down In Cold

Author: NRMA Motoring & ServicesDate: 27 May 2009

For the first time since 1920 NRMA Motoring & Services offered membership for six months with unlimited roadside assistance call-outs to help families without current membership cope with the current financial crisis.

The offer was made at the same time new research shows motorists are more likely to need roadside assistance over winter.

An analysis of roadside statistics from 2006 to 2008 showed that 853,827 motorists broke down during winter, almost 20,000 more than autumn (836,334) and significantly more than summer (814,374) and spring (775,364).

Key reasons for the surge in breakdown figures include:

  • More people leave home when it is still dark and leave their lights on when they get to work in daylight.
  • Older batteries die more frequently in colder weather.
  • In wet and cold weather people race out of the car with their umbrella and bag, locking their keys in the car.

In the lead up to winter and as the financial crisis worsens, the NRMA for the first time broke its 89-year tradition with a 6-month membership for $50.

NRMA Group CEO Tony Stuart said the new membership deal was offered so that motorists would not be forced to sacrifice safety and security on the road in the current economic climate.

"Motorists are at risk if they break down and don't have roadside assistance cover and as our new research shows they are more likely to breakdown in the colder months," Mr Stuart said.

"We also don't know how long the current financial crisis will last but we do know that family budgets are being slashed to try and cope.

"So we hoped that providing a cheaper six-month NRMA membership package would provide families with the road service coverage they needed until the economy picks up."

The offer also included waiving the $55 joining fee.

The new membership rate of $50 for six months provided:

  • Unlimited call-outs for roadside assistance anywhere in Australia.
  • 20 kilometres worth of free towing.
  • Special membership discounts and offers through the More4Members program.

This offer has now expired.

Motoring testimony image

There are now more reasons to smile. While Roadside Assistance remains at our heart, NRMA Membership now means so much more.

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