What is roadside assistance coverage, and do you need it?

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Woman looking under the hood of her car while broken down on the side of the roadImage: Woman looking under the hood of her car while broken down on the side of the road
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Roadside assistance coverage is like a trusted friend who’s always there to help you out of a jam.

If your car breaks down or you run out of gas, roadside assistance can make it less of a hassle — and it’s typically available around the clock. Many insurers, carmakers and auto clubs offer roadside assistance, so understanding the costs and services you’ll get in return is key to making a good choice.

What does roadside assistance cover?

Roadside assistance plans typically offer a broad range of coverage for things like …

  • Battery jump-starts or flat tire changes
  • Towing to the nearest repair facility if your vehicle disabled
  • Locksmith services if you lock yourself out of your car or lose your keys
  • Fuel if you run out of gas

Coverage may vary from one plan to the next, so you’ll want to check details carefully before buying.

What happens if I break down and I don’t have roadside assistance?

Towing a car after a breakdown can be pricey. A breakdown without roadside assistance can also be a big inconvenience.

You may need help finding a service provider and getting the aid you need. Having roadside assistance coverage simplifies things — you’ll know exactly who to call if you’re stuck.

How you can get roadside assistance coverage

Many auto insurers can provide this as part of a policy or standalone serve, but you can also get roadside coverage from auto clubs and some carmakers.

FAQs about roadside assistance coverage

What company is best for roadside assistance?

Choosing a company for roadside assistance isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. Research each company and select based on your budget and the services provided.

Does using roadside assistance increase my premium?

Infrequent use of roadside assistance typically won’t affect your car insurance premium. But repeated service calls within a relatively short period may cause your rate to increase.

Next steps

Figure out which roadside assistance services are most valuable to you. Then, use your selections to evaluate and choose providers, and price-shop to get the best deal.