Roadside Assistance Coverage: A Complete Guide (2024)
Get peace of mind on the road with affordable roadside assistance coverage from top insurance providers. Roadside assistance plans offer services such as towing, jumpstarts, tire changes, and gas delivery, ensuring you're never stranded in an emergency. With coverage options ranging from $30 to $100 yearly, it's a small price to pay for added protection and convenience.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Insurance Agent
Dan Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has been working in his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. He reviews content, ensuring tha...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Nov 28, 2023
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Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by insurance experts.
UPDATED: Nov 28, 2023
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single insurance company.
Our insurance industry partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different insurance companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
Are you prepared for unexpected roadside emergencies? Roadside assistance coverage is a vital addition to your insurance policy, providing peace of mind and support when you need it most. In this article, we will explore the key topics related to roadside assistance coverage, including the services offered, cost factors, and its worth as an investment.
- Roadside assistance is usually offered as an additional type of coverage.
- Roadside assistance can cover towing, gas delivery, jump starts, and more.
- Roadside assistance is offered through insurance companies, credit card companies, cell phone companies, and more.
Don’t wait until you’re stranded on the side of the road – enter your zip code now to compare rates from the best insurance providers in your area. Ensure you have the reliable assistance you need by making an informed decision and securing the right coverage today.
What is covered by roadside assistance?
As mentioned above, the things covered by roadside assistance are all based on where you purchase the coverage. For the most part, however, roadside assistance will include:
- towing
- gas delivery
- jump starts
- tire changes
- locksmith services
Roadside assistance can also cover getting your vehicle removed if it is stuck in mud or snow.
Read more: Snow Tire Car Insurance Discount
Some companies offer additional roadside assistance options, which can include coverage for towing longer distances. Be sure to check with your insurance company about all the benefits they offer with roadside assistance.
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What is the cost of roadside assistance?
The cost of roadside assistance can depend on many factors, with some companies offering it as low as $30 per year and others charging around $100 per year. Affordable roadside assistance is usually an option on your car insurance policy.
Additionally, you may accrue extra costs that aren’t covered with your actual roadside assistance policy. For example, if you have to be towed a further distance than is covered by your policy, you will likely have to pay the difference out of pocket.
As with most forms of coverage, cheaper doesn’t always mean better when it comes to roadside assistance coverage. Be sure to carefully examine the roadside assistance rates and options your company is offering.
Is roadside assistance worth the extra cost?
This all depends on your needs and wants. While many people find roadside assistance worth purchasing just for the peace of mind, some would rather save a few bucks on their policy and use it for something else.
Those with newer cars and those with short commutes may find roadside assistance not worth the extra cost, as there is less chance of an accident in these cases.
It is also a good idea for motorcycle riders to purchase roadside assistance coverage, according to the Insurance Information Institute.
Is roadside assistance included with basic coverage?
With most companies, roadside assistance is a form of additional coverage; however, there are companies that include it with their standard car insurance coverage.
For example, 21st Century has a basic coverage package that includes 24/7 roadside assistance at no additional charge.
Several credit card companies also offer free roadside assistance options to their members, including Chase and Visa.
Roadside assistance is offered to customers from certain cell phone companies, including Verizon and AT&T. Inquire with your credit card or cell phone company to see if they offer any such benefits.
Easily compare coverage rates from excellent auto insurance companies by using our quote box.
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Other Things About Roadside Assistance You Should Know
If you are wondering how many roadside assistance service claims your auto insurance company will allow, it can sometimes be unlimited. However, many companies have a limit of around four claims.
If you are using roadside assistance minimally, you shouldn’t see an increase in rates. This can differ from company to company, though.
How can you find roadside assistance coverage?
You can buy roadside assistance coverage from a variety of different sources that can all range in costs and benefits. A number of top companies offer roadside assistance.
AARP roadside assistance, Allstate roadside assistance, Progressive roadside assistance, Geico roadside assistance, and State Farm roadside assistance are just a few of the options from top companies.
Roadside assistance from most of these companies can be added a minimal additional cost.
AAA roadside assistance is another popular option. It may be the best-known roadside assistance coverage company out there.
You must be a member of AAA to receive their roadside assistance coverage, but membership comes with plenty of other benefits as well, including travel discounts and low-cost movie tickets.
You may also be able to get roadside assistance from your car’s manufacturer. Companies like Ford, General Motors, Toyota, and Volkswagen all offer roadside assistance coverage for a limited time with some vehicles.
Read more: Toyota Car Insurance Discount
Check with your vehicle’s manufacturer to see if they offer any such option.
If you already have basic coverage with an insurance company, you can easily ask about its roadside assistance coverage options. Many companies offer roadside assistance as part of its full coverage plans.
While full coverage can be expensive in some states, some people like having the knowledge that they are covered in almost any situation. Check out the chart below to see the average annual full coverage rates in your state.
Read more: Ford Car Insurance Discount
| State | Average Annual Full Coverage Rates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $868.48 |
| Alaska | $1,027.75 |
| Arizona | $972.85 |
| Arkansas | $906.34 |
| California | $986.75 |
| Colorado | $981.64 |
| Connecticut | $1,151.07 |
| Countrywide | $1,009.38 |
| Delaware | $1,240.57 |
| District of Columbia | $1,330.73 |
| Florida | $1,257.13 |
| Georgia | $1,048.40 |
| Hawaii | $873.28 |
| Idaho | $679.89 |
| Illinois | $884.56 |
| Indiana | $755.03 |
| Iowa | $702.46 |
| Kansas | $862.93 |
| Kentucky | $938.51 |
| Louisiana | $1,405.36 |
| Maine | $703.82 |
| Maryland | $1,116.45 |
| Massachusetts | $1,129.29 |
| Michigan | $1,364.00 |
| Minnesota | $875.49 |
| Mississippi | $994.05 |
| Missouri | $872.43 |
| Montana | $863.52 |
| Nebraska | $831.02 |
| Nevada | $1,103.05 |
| New Hampshire | $818.75 |
| New Jersey | $1,382.79 |
| New Mexico | $937.59 |
| New York | $1,360.66 |
| North Carolina | $789.09 |
| North Dakota | $773.30 |
| Ohio | $788.56 |
| Oklahoma | $1,005.32 |
| Oregon | $904.83 |
| Pennsylvania | $970.51 |
| Rhode Island | $1,303.50 |
| South Carolina | $973.10 |
| South Dakota | $766.91 |
| Tennessee | $871.43 |
| Texas | $1,109.66 |
| Utah | $872.93 |
| Vermont | $764.02 |
| Virginia | $842.67 |
| Washington | $968.80 |
| West Virginia | $1,025.78 |
| Wisconsin | $737.18 |
| Wyoming | $847.44 |
As you can see, there is a major difference in full coverage rates between some states.
If you are looking for a policy that includes roadside assistance and don’t feel like spending hours online comparing rates, use our quick and easy comparison tool instead. Roadside assistance coverage quotes can be included with a complete car insurance quote.
Before you buy roadside assistance coverage, always compare quotes to make sure you are getting the best price. Enter your ZIP code into our FREE quote tool today.
References:
Case Studies: Roadside Assistance Coverage
Case Study 1: Tire Replacement on the Highway
Mr. Smith, a commuter traveling on a busy highway, experienced a sudden tire blowout. Stranded with no spare tire, he contacted his roadside assistance provider. Within 30 minutes, a service technician arrived, assessed the situation, and promptly replaced the damaged tire with a spare one from their inventory. Thanks to his roadside assistance coverage, Mr. Smith was able to resume his journey without further inconvenience or delays.
Case Study 2: Battery Jumpstart in a Remote Location
Ms. Johnson, an avid camper, found herself in a remote area with a dead car battery. With no nearby service stations or assistance available, she called her roadside assistance provider. A skilled technician was dispatched to her location, equipped with the necessary tools to jumpstart her vehicle. Within minutes, her car was up and running, allowing Ms. Johnson to continue her camping trip with minimal disruption.
Case Study 3: Fuel Delivery During an Unexpected Outing
The Jackson family planned a day trip to a scenic spot but underestimated the distance and ran out of fuel in a remote area. Stranded without a gas station nearby, they contacted their roadside assistance provider. A friendly representative arranged for a fuel delivery service to their location. Soon enough, a fuel truck arrived, providing them with the necessary gasoline to reach the nearest station and complete their outing as planned.
Case Study 4: Lockout Assistance in a Busy City
Ms. Rodriguez accidentally locked her keys inside her car while parked in a bustling city center. Realizing the inconvenience and potential security risks, she dialed her roadside assistance helpline. A professional locksmith dispatched by the assistance provider arrived promptly. With expertise and specialized tools, the locksmith quickly unlocked her vehicle, allowing Ms. Rodriguez to regain access and continue her day without further hassle.
Case Study 5: Towing Service for a Mechanical Breakdown
Mr. Thompson’s car experienced a sudden mechanical breakdown on a deserted road far from any repair shops. Unable to fix the issue on his own, he contacted his roadside assistance provider for help. A tow truck was promptly dispatched to his location and safely transported his vehicle to a trusted repair facility. Thanks to the reliable towing service included in his coverage, Mr. Thompson was able to resolve the mechanical issue without additional stress or logistical challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does roadside assistance cover?
Roadside assistance coverage typically includes services such as:
- towing
- gas delivery
- jump starts
- tire changes
- locksmith services
Some policies may also cover vehicle removal in case of being stuck in mud or snow.
How much does roadside assistance cost?
The cost of roadside assistance can vary depending on several factors. It can range from as low as $30 per year to around $100 per year. It’s important to carefully examine the rates and options offered by your insurance company to ensure you’re getting the coverage you need.
Is roadside assistance worth the extra cost?
Whether roadside assistance is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and preferences. While some people find it valuable for the peace of mind it provides, others may choose to allocate their funds differently. Factors such as the age of your vehicle and the length of your daily commute can also influence this decision.
Is roadside assistance included in basic coverage?
In most cases, roadside assistance is offered as an additional type of coverage that you can add to your auto insurance policy. However, some insurance companies may include it in their standard coverage. Certain credit card companies and cell phone companies may also offer roadside assistance as a benefit to their customers.
How can I find roadside assistance coverage?
Roadside assistance coverage can be purchased from various sources, including insurance companies, AAA, credit card companies, and even your vehicle’s manufacturer. Top insurance companies such as AARP, Allstate, Progressive, Geico, and State Farm offer roadside assistance options that can be added to your policy. It’s recommended to compare rates and benefits from different providers to find the best coverage for your needs.
Are there limitations on roadside assistance service claims?
The number of roadside assistance service claims allowed can vary depending on the insurance company. Some companies may have a limit of around four claims, while others may offer unlimited claims. It’s important to review your policy terms and conditions to understand any limitations.
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Daniel Walker
Licensed Insurance Agent
Dan Walker graduated with a BS in Administrative Management in 2005 and has been working in his family’s insurance agency, FCI Agency, for 15 years (BBB A+). He is licensed as an agent to write property and casualty insurance, including home, life, auto, umbrella, and dwelling fire insurance. He’s also been featured on sites like Reviews.com and Safeco. He reviews content, ensuring tha...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by insurance experts.