Roadside assistance can provide peace of mind when you’re on the road, offering help with common emergencies like flat tires, dead batteries, or towing needs. But is it worth adding to your auto insurance policy? Dive into the pros and cons of roadside assistance to decide if it’s the right choice for you.
What Is Roadside Assistance?
Roadside assistance is an optional add-on to your auto insurance policy or a standalone service provided by companies like AAA. It offers help in unexpected situations, such as:
- Towing: If your car breaks down, roadside assistance will tow it to the nearest repair shop.
- Flat Tire Changes: A technician will replace your flat tire with your spare.
- Battery Jump-Starts: If your battery dies, roadside assistance can give you a jump-start.
- Lockout Services: If you accidentally lock your keys in the car, they’ll help you get back inside.
- Fuel Delivery: If you run out of gas, they’ll deliver enough fuel to get you to the nearest station.
Pros of Adding Roadside Assistance
Peace of Mind
Knowing that help is just a phone call away can ease anxiety during stressful situations, especially if you’re driving long distances or in unfamiliar areas.
Cost Savings
The cost of a single roadside emergency, such as a tow or locksmith, can easily exceed the annual cost of roadside assistance. Having coverage can save you money if you encounter multiple issues throughout the year.
Convenience
With roadside assistance, you don’t have to worry about finding a tow truck or service provider on your own. Most programs offer 24/7 support, making it easy to get help whenever and wherever you need it.
Discounts and Additional Benefits
Many roadside assistance programs offer perks like discounts on travel, hotels, or car rentals. For example, organizations like AAA provide members with access to exclusive deals and travel planning services.
Coverage for Multiple Vehicles
Some plans cover all the vehicles in your household or provide coverage for the driver, regardless of the car they’re driving. This can be especially useful for families with multiple cars.
Cons of Adding Roadside Assistance
Additional Cost
Adding roadside assistance to your insurance policy increases your premium. While it’s usually affordable, the cost can add up if you’re already stretching your budget.
Limited Coverage
Most roadside assistance plans have limits, such as a maximum number of service calls per year or mileage limits for towing. Exceeding these limits may result in extra charges.
Overlap with Other Services
If you already have roadside coverage through a credit card, car warranty, or auto club membership, adding it to your insurance policy might be redundant.
Potential for Premium Increases
Filing multiple roadside assistance claims could lead to higher insurance premiums, as some insurers view frequent claims as a sign of higher risk.
How to Decide if Roadside Assistance Is Right for You
To determine whether roadside assistance is worth adding, consider the following factors:
Your Driving Habits
If you frequently drive long distances, travel in remote areas, or have an older car that’s more likely to break down, roadside assistance could be a smart investment. On the other hand, if you rarely drive or only travel short distances, you may not need it.
Your Vehicle’s Reliability
Newer cars with extended warranties often include roadside coverage, making it unnecessary to pay for additional assistance. However, older cars or those with higher mileage may benefit from having coverage.
Your Budget
Weigh the annual cost of roadside assistance against the potential cost of a single emergency. If you can comfortably cover emergencies out of pocket, you may not need to add it to your policy.
Existing Coverage
Check whether you already have roadside assistance through another provider, such as a car warranty, credit card, or employer benefits. If so, adding it to your auto insurance policy might not be necessary.
Wrapping It Up
Roadside assistance can be a valuable safety net, but it’s not the right choice for everyone. By evaluating your driving habits, vehicle reliability, and budget, you can decide whether to add it to your auto insurance or explore other options. Look into your needs today to ensure you’re prepared for whatever the road brings.