Does auto insurance cover roadside assistance?

Many people think auto insurance and roadside assistance go hand in hand. However, that’s not always the case. For example, most auto insurance companies don’t automatically cover roadside assistance.

Typically, roadside assistance is an add-on to your auto insurance policy. In addition, you may need to carry full coverage to get the extra coverage. Although some insurers include it in your policy, most consider it extra.

However, it’s important coverage for most drivers. Roadside assistance covers unexpected needs, such as towing, jump starts, fuel delivery, and lockouts. Available coverages vary by the insurance company.

Fortunately, you can get roadside assistance from various sources if you don’t want to add it to your car insurance. Third-party companies like AAA also offer coverage.

Keep reading to learn if auto insurance covers roadside assistance and whether you should add the coverage.

Does your auto insurance policy cover roadside assistance?

While most companies offer roadside assistance, it’s an add-on that you must pay for alongside your standard car insurance coverage. However, rates for roadside assistance are typically inexpensive.

Each auto insurance company offers different services, and rates vary. For example, while you can get roadside assistance with Progressive, Allstate, and State Farm, each company charges different rates, and not all services are available.

Most insurance companies require you have roadside assistance coverage before using the service. However, Allstate roadside assistance offers a pay-per-use option, allowing you to pay for the service you need even if you don’t already have coverage. You can call the Allstate roadside assistance number and get help even if you haven’t added this coverage to your policy.

Remember that your insurance company may require you to carry full coverage auto insurance to add roadside assistance. 

Full coverage includes liability, collision, comprehensive, and any other mandatory coverage. Full coverage offers the most protection since it protects others and your vehicle from various damages. However, full coverage is the most expensive option.

What does roadside assistance include?

Roadside assistance services vary by provider but generally include the same options. Check the policy carefully to ensure it includes the services you may need.

Roadside assistance services include:

• Towing
• Winching
• Locksmith services
• Fuel and fluid delivery
• Jump starts
• Tire changes
• Mechanical labor

While services are generally the same, there are some differences. For example, State Farm roadside assistance includes towing to the nearest repair facility, whereas Progressive roadside assistance offers towing up to 15 miles.

Some policies include trip interruption, legal reimbursements, and bonds should your trip get canceled or you get charged with a crime.

In addition, roadside assistance is only available on your policy’s listed cars. So, if you borrow a friend’s car, it won’t be covered. You may also have to provide your policy information when using your coverage.

Roadside assistance doesn’t include every service you could need. For example, it doesn’t cover towing your vehicle after an accident. In addition, there are usually towing and winching mileage limits. 

You’ll also be responsible for any items you need, such as fuel, oil, a new battery, or new car keys. Most insurance companies also specify that it includes up to one hour of labor.

Who needs roadside assistance?

You may think you don’t need roadside assistance since you have a newer car. However, that isn’t the case.

You can still get a flat tire, run out of gas, or lock your keys in your car, no matter your vehicle’s age. Though you might not run into mechanical problems like a dead battery, other issues may arise.

One tow trip can cost well over $100, so roadside assistance costs are comparatively minor. 

If you don’t drive your car often or stray far from home, you might not need to add roadside assistance. You also might be able to skip the coverage if you can make minor vehicle repairs yourself.

Also, if you have friends or family nearby, you may decide not to add roadside assistance. For example, if you run out of gas or lock your keys in your car, a friend can bring you fuel or grab your spare key.

However, if you travel frequently or have an unreliable vehicle, roadside assistance offers peace of mind if you need help. Since coverage is usually inexpensive, consider adding it to your policy if you need a hand.

What are other ways to get roadside assistance?

If your auto insurance company doesn’t offer roadside assistance or you don’t like the services provided, you can get coverage elsewhere.

First, if you have a new car, roadside assistance may already be included in your car loan or lease. Many auto dealers include coverage for a certain period automatically.

Next, your credit card may offer coverage. Check with your credit company to see if your card includes coverage or if you can add it to your card.

Finally, many drivers get roadside assistance from a third-party company, such as AAA. For example, AAA customer service roadside assistance doesn’t require a particular auto insurance company, offering several plans at different rates.

In addition, AAA members often receive discounts for other services like hotels and car rentals. AAA also allows you to use your coverage on a vehicle you’re in, even if you aren’t the owner or driver.

Typically, roadside assistance costs less than $100 a year, regardless of the company. So while some plans include beefier benefits, a basic plan is relatively inexpensive.

Some states also provide roadside assistance on a limited basis. For example, some states offer a jump start or change a tire if you get stranded on the interstate.

Read more: How To Cancel AAA Auto Insurance

Does Auto Insurance Cover Roadside Assistance: The Bottom Line

Auto insurance doesn’t usually cover roadside assistance unless you add it to your policy. In addition, rates and available services vary by company. For example, Progressive insurance roadside assistance includes towing for electric vehicles but not if you’re in an accident.

Roadside assistance usually includes towing, jump starts, locksmith services, fuel delivery, and tire changes. However, you’ll still have to pay for any necessary items, like a new battery, gas, and keys.

Though car trouble is inevitable, drivers who travel frequently or have unreliable vehicles benefit from roadside assistance. In addition, the coverage offers peace of mind in case unforeseen events happen.

If you don’t drive often or far, can do minor repairs, or have help nearby, you may consider skipping coverage. However, coverage is generally inexpensive, and it doesn’t hurt to have extra help available.

If you don’t want roadside assistance through your insurance company, you can get coverage through your dealer, credit card company, or a third-party company like AAA. Read the policy closely to ensure the policy includes the coverage you need.

Since roadside assistance is usually less than $100 a year, peace of mind far outweighs the cost of adding coverage. Even one tow costs more than adding roadside assistance.