“Comprehensive Guide to Roadside Assistance: What You Need to Know”

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What Is Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance is a service designed to help you get back on the road when you encounter issues. Depending on the plan, it may cover services like towing, fuel delivery, lockouts, and more. Typically, you can call a 24/7 hotline or use a mobile app to request help, and the provider will send someone to assist you.

What Does Roadside Assistance Cover?

Most roadside assistance plans can help in the following situations:

• Dead car battery requiring a jump start, replacement, or tow to a charging station.
• Running out of gas and needing fuel delivery.
• Flat tire that needs changing.
• Vehicle stuck in sand, mud, water, or snow.
• Locking yourself out of your car or misplacing your keys.
• Car not driveable and needing a tow to an auto repair shop.
• Disabled car requiring simple on-scene labor.

However, plans usually set limits on the number of assistance calls per year, the dollar limit covered for each service, or the maximum number of miles for towing. You may also need to pay for certain items, such as the cost of fuel.

How Much Does Roadside Assistance Cost?

Roadside assistance is generally affordable, ranging from free up to $180 per year, depending on the provider and services offered. Here are some typical costs:

• Automotive clubs: $50 to $180 per year.
• Auto insurance companies: $15 to $30 per year per vehicle.
• Credit card companies: Free or per-service charge.
• Cellphone providers: $0 to $60 per year.
• Car manufacturers: Free for a limited time.

Some membership plans allow you to add services like identity theft protection, bicycle roadside assistance, or trip interruption coverage for an additional fee.

Where to Get Roadside Assistance Coverage

Most insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an add-on to your policy, but you can also find these services through other providers:

• Insurance companies: Available as stand-alone coverage if you insure your vehicle through another company.
• Automotive clubs: More expensive but may offer perks like discounts and benefits.
• Auto manufacturers: Free or per-service programs with the purchase of a new vehicle.
• Cellphone providers: Typically at a small monthly fee, linked to a specific phone line.
• Credit card companies: Some offer pay-per-use or free services up to a certain amount.

How to Choose a Roadside Assistance Plan

Follow these steps to choose the best roadside assistance plan for your budget:

1. Look for existing coverage: Check if your credit card, cellphone provider, or auto manufacturer offers free roadside assistance.
2. Check your car insurance policy: See if your car insurance company offers roadside assistance and compare the costs and services.
3. Research automotive clubs: Clubs like AAA and Better World Club offer various plans at different price points.
4. Sign up for a policy: Choose a plan that fits your budget and coverage needs, then review it after the first year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Roadside Assistance Worth It?

Roadside assistance can be worthwhile as it provides peace of mind and support when on the road. You can call for help 24/7, saving on services like towing and locksmith services. Membership plans through third-party services are generally more expensive, but you can save money by purchasing coverage through your insurance provider or getting limited, free coverage through a credit card.

Does Using Roadside Assistance Increase Your Premium?

Yes, adding roadside assistance to your car insurance plan may increase it by about $15 to $30 a year or more, depending on the insurance company and the level of coverage you buy.

Does Roadside Assistance Cover Towing?

Most roadside assistance programs cover towing, but some plans limit the number of miles you can tow your car, with additional miles resulting in fees.

The Bottom Line

Roadside assistance can provide valuable coverage when you’re stranded on the road. You have several options for getting a membership with an automotive company, adding it to an existing car insurance policy, or finding free benefits through a cellphone provider, credit card, or car manufacturer. Check the coverage limits and pricing for multiple plans before choosing one.

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