Roadside assistance is one of the most valuable add-ons you can include in your auto insurance policy. Whether it’s a dead battery, flat tire, or locked car, being stranded on the road can be stressful, inconvenient, and even dangerous. Fortunately, adding roadside assistance coverage is a straightforward process—and often more affordable than many drivers expect.
In this article, we’ll explore what roadside assistance is, what it typically covers, the different ways you can add it to your insurance, and why it’s a smart investment for peace of mind and safety.
What Is Roadside Assistance?
Roadside assistance is a service that helps drivers when their vehicle breaks down or encounters a problem that leaves it immobile or unsafe to drive. While specifics vary by provider, most roadside assistance packages offer the following services:
- Towing: If your car can’t be repaired on the spot, it will be towed to a nearby mechanic or the location of your choice within a certain distance.
- Battery Jumpstart: If your battery dies, a technician will come to jumpstart it.
- Flat Tire Change: A technician will replace your flat tire with your spare.
- Lockout Service: If you’re locked out of your vehicle, assistance will be sent to unlock it.
- Fuel Delivery: If you run out of gas, a small amount will be delivered to get you to the nearest station.
- Winching or Extraction: If your vehicle is stuck in mud, snow, or a ditch, roadside assistance can help pull it out.
Why Add Roadside Assistance to Your Insurance?
Adding roadside assistance provides several key benefits:
- Peace of Mind: Knowing help is just a phone call away makes driving less stressful.
- Cost-Effective: It’s often cheaper than subscribing to third-party services or paying out of pocket during an emergency.
- Convenience: Your insurance provider typically manages all logistics, reducing hassle when you’re in a tough spot.
- 24/7 Availability: Most programs operate around the clock, ensuring help is available whenever you need it.
Ways to Add Roadside Assistance to Your Insurance
There are multiple options for adding roadside assistance, and each one varies slightly depending on your insurer and your personal preferences.
1. Through Your Auto Insurance Provider
Most major insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an optional rider or add-on. Here’s how you can add it:
- Contact Your Agent or Insurer: Call your insurance company or log into your account online.
- Request the Add-On: Ask to add roadside assistance to your existing policy.
- Review Coverage Options: Some insurers offer multiple tiers of roadside coverage—basic, enhanced, or premium.
- Understand the Cost: Expect to pay an additional $10–$30 per year on average, though this varies by company and plan.
Popular insurers that offer roadside assistance include:
| Insurance Provider | Roadside Assistance Option | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| GEICO | Emergency Road Service | $14/year |
| Progressive | Roadside Assistance | $15/year |
| State Farm | Emergency Road Service | $5–$10/year |
| Allstate | Roadside Assistance Plans | $25–$50/year |
| Nationwide | Roadside Assistance | $23/year |
2. As Part of a Membership Program
Some drivers prefer roadside assistance through organizations like AAA or AARP. These memberships are separate from your insurance but offer broader benefits, such as travel discounts or DMV services.
3. Through Vehicle Manufacturers
If you drive a newer vehicle, your manufacturer may offer complimentary roadside assistance for a certain number of years or miles. Check your owner’s manual or contact the dealership for details.
What to Consider Before Adding Roadside Assistance
Before you add roadside assistance to your policy, consider the following:
- Coverage Limits: Understand how far the tow will take you and how many service calls are allowed per year.
- Vehicle Eligibility: Some plans exclude RVs, motorcycles, or older vehicles.
- Response Time: Research the insurer’s average response time in your area.
- Costs of Standalone vs. Insurance Add-On: If you already have coverage through a credit card, vehicle manufacturer, or membership, compare benefits before paying for insurance-based coverage.
How to Use Roadside Assistance
Once you’ve added roadside assistance to your insurance, using it is typically simple:
- Call the Emergency Number: Your insurer will provide a 24/7 phone number or app to request help.
- Provide Your Policy Info: Give the representative your policy number and location.
- Describe the Problem: Explain what’s wrong—flat tire, battery issue, lockout, etc.
- Wait for Help: Most services arrive within 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your location.
Make sure to keep your insurance card or mobile app handy in your vehicle in case you need to access roadside assistance quickly.
When Roadside Assistance May Not Be Enough
While roadside assistance is helpful, it has limitations. It won’t cover major repairs, collision damage, or mechanical failures that require extensive labor. Always pair it with a solid auto insurance policy that includes comprehensive and collision coverage for broader protection.
Conclusion
Adding roadside assistance to your car insurance is a smart and affordable way to ensure you’re never left stranded on the side of the road. Whether it’s a flat tire, dead battery, or lockout, knowing you have help available 24/7 can bring peace of mind and save money in the long run.
With a simple call to your insurer or a few clicks online, you can enhance your policy and gain an essential layer of protection. Before committing, compare plans, check for any existing coverage you might already have, and choose the option that fits your driving habits and needs best.
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