Roadside assistance is a service that provides drivers with help when their vehicle breaks down on the road. It can include services such as tire changes, jump starts, fuel delivery, lockout assistance, and towing. These services are offered by various companies, including insurance providers, car manufacturers, and independent businesses.
Roadside assistance is an essential service that provides drivers with peace of mind, safety, convenience, cost-saving benefits, and potentially even discounts. It’s a valuable investment that can make all the difference in an emergency situation on the road.
Types of Roadside Assistance Services Offered
1. Towing: Towing is one of the most well-known and essential services provided by roadside assistance companies. If your car breaks down or becomes undrivable due to an accident, a towing service will transport your vehicle to the nearest mechanic or repair shop. This can save you the hassle and potential danger of trying to move your car on your own or waiting for a friend or family member to come help. Many roadside assistance plans include a certain number of free miles for towing before additional fees apply.
2. Jump-starts: Jump-starts are another commonly offered service by roadside assistance providers. If your car battery dies while you’re out on the road, having someone come give you a jump start can get you back on your way quickly and easily. This service is especially helpful during colder months when batteries tend to struggle more with starting.
3. Locksmith: Locksmith services are often overlooked but incredibly valuable in certain situations. If you lock yourself out of your car or lose your keys while traveling, having access to a locksmith through your roadside assistance plan can save you time and money compared to calling one independently.
4. Fuel delivery: Fuel delivery is becoming increasingly popular among roadside assistance providers. Running out of gas may seem like an avoidable mistake but it happens more often than people think – especially when traveling long distances or in unfamiliar areas. With fuel delivery as part of their plan, drivers can have peace of mind knowing that they won’t be stranded without any option other than walking to the nearest gas station.
Some roadside assistance plans also offer additional services such as tire changes, winching and extrication (if your car gets stuck in mud, snow, or a ditch), and even concierge services like trip planning and travel discounts. It’s important to review the specific services included in each plan to determine which one best fits your needs.
Cost Analysis: Is Roadside Assistance Worth the Investment?
The average cost of roadside assistance varies depending on the provider, coverage options, and location. On average, basic plans range from $40-$60 per year, while more comprehensive plans can cost up to $100 per year. Some providers also offer pay-per-use options where you only pay for services when you need them.
When considering if roadside assistance is worth the investment for you, it’s important to assess your individual situation and needs, the age and condition of your vehicle, your own level of comfort and ability in handling minor car issues yourself, also compare the costs associated with using roadside assistance versus paying out-of-pocket for similar services when needed. Towing fees alone can range from $75-$200 depending on distance and time of day.
Ultimately, whether or not roadside assistance is worth the investment will come down to personal preference and financial situation.
Tips for Choosing the Right Roadside Assistance Plan for Your Needs
1. Assess Your Needs: The first step is to assess your needs and determine what type of coverage would be most beneficial for you. Consider factors such as how often you drive, the distance of your daily commute, and if you frequently travel long distances.
2. Know What’s Included: It’s essential to understand what services are included in a roadside assistance plan before making a purchase. Some plans may offer basic services like towing or jump-starts, while others may also include lockout assistance, fuel delivery, and tire changes. Knowing what each plan offers will help you make an informed decision.
3. Compare Plans: Once you have determined your needs and know what services are included in each plan, take the time to compare different options from various providers. Look at the cost of each plan as well as their coverage areas and response times to find one that fits your budget and requirements.
4. Check Reviews: Reading reviews from current or previous customers can give valuable insights into the quality of service provided by a particular roadside assistance provider. Look for feedback on their response times, customer service experience, and overall satisfaction levels.
5. Consider Additional Coverage Options: Depending on your driving habits and location, there may be additional coverage options that could benefit you greatly. For example, if you live in an area that experiences harsh winters or extreme weather conditions, having coverage for emergency lodging or alternate transportation could be crucial.
6. Understand Limitations: As with any insurance or service provider agreement, it’s important to understand any limitations or exclusions that may apply to a roadside assistance plan before signing up for it fully. This will avoid any surprises or disappointments when you need to use the service.
7. Look for Discounts: Many roadside assistance providers offer discounts for bundling services or being a member of certain organizations, such as AAA. Be sure to explore these options and see if you can save money by taking advantage of any available discounts.
How to Use Roadside Assistance in an Emergency Situation
In an emergency situation, roadside assistance can be a valuable resource for drivers. Whether you have a flat tire, dead battery, or any other type of mechanical issue, having access to roadside assistance can provide peace of mind and help get you back on the road quickly.
Here are some steps to follow when using roadside assistance in an emergency situation:
1. Assess the Situation
The first step is to remain calm and assess your surroundings. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. This will ensure your safety while waiting for assistance.
2. Contact Your Roadside Assistance Provider
Once you have pulled over to a safe location, contact your roadside assistance provider immediately. Most providers offer 24/7 support and have a toll-free number that can be found on their website or membership card. Be sure to provide them with your exact location and a brief description of the issue at hand.
3. Provide Necessary Information
While speaking with the representative from your roadside assistance provider, be prepared to provide them with important information such as your name, membership number, vehicle make/model/year, and license plate number. This will help them locate your account quickly and efficiently.
4. Follow Instructions
After providing all necessary information, listen carefully to any instructions given by the representative from your roadside assistance provider. They may ask you to perform certain tasks or give you specific details about how long it will take for help to arrive.
5. Stay Safe While Waiting
While waiting for help to arrive, make sure you stay safe inside your vehicle with doors locked until the tow truck arrives or someone from the roadside assistance team reaches you.
6. Communicate Any Delays
If there are any delays or changes in plans while waiting for assistance, it is important to communicate this with the representative from your roadside assistance provider so they can inform the service provider accordingly.
Best Roadside Assistance Companies with their Options, Value and Cost
1. AAA (American Automobile Association)
AAA is undoubtedly one of the most well-known and trusted roadside assistance companies in the US. They offer three membership levels – Classic, Plus, and Premier – with varying coverage options and prices. The Classic membership starts at around $60 per year and includes services like towing up to 5 miles, fuel delivery, lockout service, and more. The Plus membership starts at around $100 per year and offers extended towing distance up to 100 miles along with other additional benefits such as trip interruption coverage. The Premier membership starts at around $140 per year and includes all Plus benefits plus enhanced coverage for travel-related emergencies.
2. Allstate Motor Club
Allstate Motor Club offers two membership levels – Roadside Advantage starting at $52 per year and Platinum Elite starting at $99 per year. Both memberships provide services like towing up to 15 miles, fuel delivery, lockout service, jump-starts, etc. However, Platinum Elite offers added perks such as trip interruption coverage and concierge services.
3. Better World Club
Better World Club is a great option for those looking for environmentally-friendly roadside assistance that also gives back to society through various social initiatives. Their basic plan starts at around $60 per year with services like towing up to 5 miles and fuel delivery included. For an extra fee, members can add on features such as bicycle breakdown coverage or electric vehicle charging.
4. Good Sam Roadside Assistance
Good Sam Roadside Assistance offers three different plans – Standard starting at around $80 per year; Platinum starting at around $110 per year; and Platinum+ RV starting at around $120 per year. All plans include services like towing, fuel delivery, lockout service, and more. The Platinum and Platinum+ RV plans offer additional benefits such as trip interruption coverage, concierge services, and coverage for RVs.
5. National General Motor Club
National General Motor Club offers a single membership level with prices varying depending on the length of the membership term. Their basic plan starts at around $60 per year and provides services like towing up to 15 miles, lockout service, jump-starts, etc. For an extra fee, members can add on features such as roadside assistance for motorcycles or travel discounts.
6. AARP Roadside Assistance
AARP offers two membership levels – Standard and Premium – starting at around $60 per year and $80 per year respectively. Both plans provide services like towing up to 5 miles, fuel delivery, lockout service, etc. The Premium plan offers added benefits such as trip interruption coverage and concierge services.
7. BP MotorClub
BP MotorClub offers three membership levels – Basic, Standard, and Premier – with prices starting at around $59 per year. All plans include services like towing up to 10 miles, lockout service, jump-starts, etc. The Premier plan offers additional benefits such as trip interruption coverage and rental car discounts.
8. Better World Club
Better World Club is another environmentally-friendly roadside assistance option that also promotes social causes through its membership fees. Their basic plan starts at around $65 per year and includes services like towing up to 5 miles and fuel delivery. Members can add on features such as bicycle breakdown coverage or electric vehicle charging for an extra fee.
9. State Farm Emergency Road Service
State Farm offers their emergency road service as an add-on to their auto insurance policies for an extra fee of around $4-$5 per month. This service provides coverage for services like towing up to 15 miles, fuel delivery, lockout service, and more.
10. Geico Emergency Road Service
Geico offers their emergency road service as an optional add-on to their auto insurance policies for an extra fee of around $14 per year. This service provides coverage for services like towing up to 100 miles, lockout service, and more.