Roadside assistance is a service designed to help drivers who experience unexpected vehicle issues while on the road. These services are typically offered by auto insurance companies, car manufacturers, or independent providers. Here’s a breakdown of common roadside assistance services:
Common Services Offered:
- Towing: If your vehicle breaks down and can’t be repaired on the spot, it can be towed to a repair shop or location of your choice.
- Battery Jump-Start: Assistance to jump-start your car if the battery is dead.
- Flat Tire Change: Help with replacing a flat tire using your vehicle’s spare.
- Fuel Delivery: Emergency fuel delivery if you run out of gas (you may have to pay for the fuel).
- Lockout Service: Assistance in unlocking your car if you accidentally lock your keys inside.
- On-Site Repairs: Minor repairs to get your vehicle back on the road without towing.
- Winching: Assistance if your car is stuck in mud, sand, or snow.
How to Access Roadside Assistance:
- Membership Plans: Providers like AAA, AARP, or other auto clubs offer annual memberships.
- Insurance Add-Ons: Many car insurance policies offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on.
- Car Manufacturer Programs: Some carmakers provide complimentary roadside assistance for new vehicles for a certain number of years or miles.
- Credit Card Perks: Some premium credit cards include roadside assistance as part of their benefits.
Cost:
- Standalone memberships range from $50–$150 per year.
- Pay-per-use services can range from $50 to $150+ per incident, depending on the service.
