The Benefits of Roadside Assistance
With driving comes a potential for issues on the road. Whether you own a brand new vehicle or one that is 10+ years old, all drivers can encounter flat tires, run out of gas, lock keys inside the vehicle, and even a dead battery. Read on for our definition of roadside assistance, why you should consider roadside assistance coverage, and the various types of services included.
What is Roadside Assistance Insurance?
Insurance coverage for roadside assistance helps cover expenses you incur when your vehicle is not drivable. Typically, when you’re having vehicle trouble, you’ll be able to call your insurance provider or call an assistance hotline. Most major auto insurance providers offer this type of insurance coverage, including Allstate, Geico, Progressive, State Farm, USAA, and more. You can also partner with third-party auto organizations like AAA to get roadside assistance coverage.
Reasons You Should Consider Roadside Assistance
Get off the road quickly
When you have a flat tire, a significant windshield crack, or even if you’ve been in an accident, it’s essential to move your vehicle off the road quickly. In situations where you cannot transfer your vehicle, having roadside assistance can cut your wait time in half.
Get help during any time of the day
Whether you have roadside assistance through AAA or your insurance provider, you typically can get quick help 24/7. Without, you will still be able to get help, but it may take longer at night and be more costly.
Avoid expensive towing services
Day or night, without roadside assistance, towing services are expensive. Depending on where you are, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2.50 to $7.00 per mile. That can add up to hundreds if not thousands in unexpected costs.
Types of Roadside Assistance Services
Fuel delivery
Running out of gas seems to be a common problem for drivers. According to a AAA survey in 2017, 24 million or 11 percent of American drivers continue on their journey long after the low fuel warning light turns on. Although this is avoidable, most roadside assistance programs offer fuel delivery services.
Vehicle lockout
Most vehicles come with two keys, but do drivers drive around with both at all times? The answer is likely not. Roadside assistance insurance typically covers a key lockout situation or a dead key fob battery!
Flat tires
Changing a flat tire with your spare can be a quick and easy process if you know how. Having roadside assistance is key for those of us who haven’t learned the skill. Plus, flat tires are one of the most common reasons drivers contact roadside assistance.
Dead battery
If you don’t currently have jumper cables in your vehicle, we recommend vamping up your vehicle’s emergency kit. But even if you do have these cables, you need to know how to use them properly, and you need another vehicle to help you jump start. With roadside assistance, you can call for help and quickly get back on the road.
Towing services
A breakdown is more likely on older vehicles, but even with new models, it is possible. Plus, if you’ve been in an accident, you will likely need to tow your vehicle to a safe location.
Bring your vehicle to the shop of your choice
If necessary, your roadside assistance provider will always take your vehicle to the mechanic or auto body shop of your choosing. If you are in the Colorado Front Range, choose Colorado Coach Auto Body!
