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You need roadside assistance if you have an older car, commute or travel long distances, or simply want peace of mind. Vehicles that are at least 10 years old are four times as likely to need a tow, according to research by AAA. Plus, 1 in 3 Americans experience a vehicle breakdown every year, according to Agero—the largest provider of wholesale roadside assistance in the U.S.
On the other hand, if your car is relatively new or still covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, roadside assistance is probably unnecessary.
Why Most Drivers Need Roadside Assistance
1. Roadside assistance covers a lot of different services
Common examples include:
- Mechanical repairs
- Towing services
- Fuel-delivery services
- Flat tire service
- Locksmith services
- Battery jump-starts
- Winching services
Your specific number of tows, miles of towing, and coverage costs will depend on the provider and assistance plan that you select.
2. Roadside assistance can be very affordable.
Insurers usually offer the cheapest roadside assistance coverage—around $20 per year. It costs a bit more if you buy roadside assistance through an auto club. However, clubs often offer additional coverage options and discounts at affiliated businesses.
3. Roadside assistance is available from a variety of sources.
You can get roadside assistance from:
- Your existing car insurance coverage
- An automobile club like AAA
- Certain credit card benefits packages
To learn more, check out WalletHub’s guide to the best roadside assistance.
People also ask
Can I use my roadside assistance for someone else?
Yes, in most instances you can use your roadside assistance for someone else, as long as you are in the car as a passenger and you're carrying your card with you. Most insurance companies don't attach the roadside assistance program to the vehicle listed on the policy, but rather to the policyholder themselves. However, there are companies that will not allow you to use your roadside assistance service on another vehicle unless you transfer the coverage.
... read full answer by Lilah Butler, Car Insurance WriterDid we answer your question?
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