Understanding Roadside Assistance: A Comprehensive Guide

When you’re out on the road, unexpected situations can arise, leaving you stranded and in need of help. This is where roadside assistance comes into play. In this blog, we’ll delve into what roadside assistance is, the costs involved, where to get coverage, and how to choose the best plan for your needs. Additionally, we’ll highlight how O1ne Mortgage can assist you with your mortgage needs. For any mortgage service inquiries, feel free to call us at 213-732-3074.

What Is Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance is a service designed to help you get your car back on the road when you encounter issues. Depending on the plan, it may cover services such as towing, fuel delivery, lockouts, and more. Typically, you can call a 24/7 hotline or request help through a mobile app, and the provider will send someone to assist you. These plans can be part of your auto insurance policy, a benefit through your credit card, or offered by an automotive club.

What Does Roadside Assistance Cover?

Most roadside assistance plans cover a range of services, including:

• Jump-starting a dead car battery or replacing it.
• Fuel delivery if you run out of gas.
• Changing a flat tire.
• Extracting your vehicle if it’s stuck in sand, mud, water, or snow.
• Unlocking your car if you lock yourself out or misplace your keys.
• Towing your car to an auto repair shop if it’s not driveable.
• Providing simple on-scene labor for minor repairs.

However, these plans often have limits on the number of assistance calls you can make per year, the dollar amount covered for each service, or the maximum number of miles for towing. You may also need to pay for certain items, such as the cost of fuel.

How Much Does Roadside Assistance Cost?

Roadside assistance is generally affordable, with costs ranging from free to $180 per year, depending on the provider and services offered. Here are some typical price ranges:

• Automotive clubs: $50 to $180 per year.
• Auto insurance companies: $15 to $30 per year per vehicle.
• Credit card companies: Free or per-service charge.
• Cellphone providers: $0 to $60 per year.
• Car manufacturers: Free for a limited time, then a charge thereafter.

Some membership plans allow you to add services like identity theft protection, bicycle roadside assistance, or trip interruption coverage for an additional fee.

Where to Get Roadside Assistance Coverage

There are several options for obtaining roadside assistance coverage:

• Insurance companies: Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance as a rider to your policy. You can also find stand-alone coverage if you insure your vehicle through another company.
• Automotive clubs: Subscriptions through auto clubs like AAA may be more expensive but offer perks such as discounts and benefits that insurance companies can’t provide.
• Auto manufacturers: Some car companies offer free or per-service roadside assistance programs with the purchase of a new vehicle.
• Cellphone providers: Your cellphone carrier may offer roadside assistance for a small monthly fee, often linked to a specific phone line.
• Credit card companies: Select credit cards offer roadside assistance programs, either on a pay-per-use basis or free up to a certain amount.

How to Choose a Roadside Assistance Plan

Here are some steps to help you choose the best roadside assistance plan for your budget:

1. Look for existing coverage: Check if your credit card, cellphone provider, or auto manufacturer offers free roadside assistance. Review the services included and any limits. You can use up your free benefits and then buy coverage from another provider if needed.
2. Check your car insurance policy: If you don’t have free coverage, see if your car insurance company offers roadside assistance. Compare the annual cost and services included. If you’re not satisfied, research other insurance companies.
3. Research automotive clubs: Clubs like AAA and Better World Club offer robust roadside plans at different price points. These plans may be suitable if you don’t own a car but want some type of coverage.
4. Sign up for a policy: After researching your options, choose a plan that fits your budget and coverage needs. Sign up for the plan and review it after the first year. Make any necessary changes or consider canceling if it’s not working for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Roadside Assistance Worth It?

Roadside assistance can be worthwhile as it provides peace of mind and support when you’re on the road. You can call for help 24/7, saving a significant amount on services like towing and locksmith services. Membership plans through third-party services are generally more expensive, but you can save money by purchasing coverage through your insurance provider or getting limited, free coverage through a credit card.

Does Using Roadside Assistance Increase Your Premium?

Yes, adding roadside assistance to your car insurance plan may increase your premium by about $15 to $30 per year or more, depending on the insurance company and the level of coverage you buy.

Does Roadside Assistance Cover Towing?

Most roadside assistance programs cover towing, but some plans limit the number of miles you can tow your car. Additional miles beyond that limit may result in fees.

The Bottom Line

Roadside assistance can provide valuable coverage when you’re stranded on the road. You have several options for getting a membership with an automotive company, adding it to an existing car insurance policy, or finding free benefits through a cellphone provider, credit card, or car manufacturer. Be sure to check the coverage limits and pricing for multiple plans before choosing one.

At O1ne Mortgage, we understand the importance of having reliable support, whether it’s on the road or with your mortgage needs. For any mortgage service inquiries, call us at 213-732-3074. We’re here to help you navigate your financial journey with confidence.