10 Ways to get Cheap Roadside Assistance

No doubt, driving a car is a fun activity. However, with so much time spent on the road daily, it is always a good idea to know how to get cheap roadside assistance options if something goes wrong. 

Let's get some tips on how to get cheap roadside assistance. But first, you should have an idea on what roadside assistance is. Here goes. 

Roadside Assistance: Meaning

Roadside assistance, also called breakdown coverage, is a valuable service that comes to the aid of drivers, bikers, or cyclists whose vehicles have experienced mechanical failure. It includes every activity that brings help to stranded motorists on the move—such as changing a flat tire or towing a car.

This failure may be too complex for the driver to fix on their own or may have rendered the vehicle immobile. That makes t impossible to take it to an auto repair shop without assistance. Typically, roadside assistance is offered as a membership plan. 

Hence, people who need the service of a roadside assistant will need to pay a monthly or annual fee or choose a plan to access help when needed. Roadside assistance providers receive calls for help and dispatch trained professionals to the site of the breakdown. These professionals inspect the vehicle and perform any necessary repairs to get it back on the road.

This helpful service can be offered by various organizations. Like government departments of transportation, vehicle insurance companies, automobile associations, or dedicated roadside assistance providers. 

If you're ever in a bind and need help, it's important to know how to get cheap roadside assistance. In this article, you'll learn about roadside assistance providers, how to become a roadside assistant, and ten ways to get affordable roadside assistance.

Getting Cheap Roadside Assistance Services

There are many ways to get the cheapest roadside assistance, but the best way to get the assistance coverage you need at a price you can afford is to shop around. Even though there are different providers, comparing service providers' rates is still important to find the best plan for you.

This list contains ten easy ways to get cheap roadside assistance:

#1. Check Out And Compare Roadside Assistance Plans from Different Companies:

Usually, it is important to compare the prices and features of a product before making a purchase, which holds for roadside assistance plans as well. By comparing plans from different companies, you can better understand the options available. And also make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.

You can consider factors such as the range of services offered, the response time, the availability of 24/7 assistance, and the cost of the plan. This can help you find a plan that is both affordable and meets your requirements.

#2. Join a Roadside Assistance Program Through your Car Insurance Company

If you have car insurance, you can save money by opting for a roadside assistance plan offered by your insuring agent. Many insurance companies offer discounts on different services. They include roadside assistance, which can help you get a cheaper plan that meets your needs as an optional coverage.

However, it may only be available if you have comprehensive and collision insurance. In addition, you can also bundle your insurance and roadside assistance plans to save even more money. This is a convenient option as all your auto-related needs are covered under a single provider.

#3. Get a Prepaid Roadside Assistance Price Plan:

A prepaid roadside assistance plan can be affordable for families or individuals who want to ensure they are covered in a roadside emergency. With a prepaid plan, you pay a fixed amount upfront for a set period, and in return, you get access to a range of services. 

Such services include; tire changes, jumpstarts, and towing. The advantage of a prepaid plan is that you can save money by bundling services for the whole family rather than paying for individual plans. This ensures that you are covered without having to worry about unexpected expenses.

#4. Ask Family and Friends about their Roadside Assistance Service Provider:

Close acquaintances often provide valuable information on various services, including roadside assistance. Knowing the plans and providers they use can give you an idea about different roadside assistance services and their prices.

You can ask about their experiences with the provider, the quality of service, and the level of customer support they received. This can help you decide which provider to choose and what plan to opt for. 

Additionally, some providers may offer referral discounts, so you and your acquaintance can both benefit from the arrangement.

#5. Check with your Employer or Trade Union for Special Roadside Assistance Packages:

When you work for an organization with a trade union or professional body, check if they offer special roadside assistance packages. Often, they may have negotiated discounted rates with providers.

Some companies may also offer employee benefits that include roadside assistance packages. It's worth checking with your employer to see if they have any special deals available.

#6. Consider using a credit card that offers Roadside Assistance

Did you know that if you have a Visa or Mastercard credit card, you might already have access to roadside assistance? Some credit card companies offer roadside assistance as part of their cardholder benefits. If you already have a credit card, check if it includes this feature.

Some credit cards offer pay-per-incident coverage, which means you'll only be charged when you use the service and won't be charged anything if you never use it. This type of roadside assistance doesn't have a monthly or annual fee, although you may have to pay a yearly fee for the credit card.

Visa and Mastercard offer roadside dispatch at different rates depending on your specific credit card. The rates may vary, so it's essential to check with your credit card company to find out what kind of roadside assistance is available and what the cost will be.

This is a great benefit as part of your credit card, especially if you frequently travel by car. Just be sure to understand the service's terms and conditions and any associated fees before relying on it in an emergency.

#7. Sign-Up with Major Insurance companies:

Many major insurance companies sometimes offer roadside assistance as part of their car insurance policies. It's worth comparing the cost of adding this feature to your existing policy or signing up for a new approach that includes roadside assistance.

Some insurance plans have unlimited service coverage, while others may only pay for a certain number of incidents yearly. Others may offer loyalty discounts or other incentives for bundling services together, so it's worth exploring your options. 

To find out if you have roadside assistance as part of your insurance policy, check your policy or contact your insurance company if you've got one. You can get the service for free or for a small additional fee.

#8. Inquire about Rates with Local Tow Truck Companies:

If you prefer to avoid going through an insurance company, contacting local tow truck companies and locksmiths to inquire about their rates for roadside assistance services is worth it. These companies may have more competitive rates than larger providers and may also offer more personalized service.

You can also check reviews and ratings of these companies online to ensure you choose a reliable provider.

#9. Use a Price Comparison Website

Many price comparison websites can help you find the best deals on roadside assistance packages. These websites allow you to compare different providers and plans side-by-side, making finding the most affordable option easier. 

They may also offer discounts or cashback incentives for signing up through their site, so researching the best deals is worth researching.

#10. Sign-Up for a roadside assistance plan that other Free Services

Some roadside assistance providers offer free additional services as part of their packages, such as battery jumpstarts, tire changes, or fuel delivery. It's worth comparing different providers to see which offers the most comprehensive packages, including the services you'll most likely need.

This can be a cost-effective way to access a range of services that could be helpful in an emergency situation.

What Does Roadside Assistance Cover?

Roadside assistance is handy when your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly, or you are in a sticky situation. Different companies offer different services as part of their roadside assistance package.

Some of the services commonly offered include towing, which involves arranging and covering the cost of a tow truck to transport your vehicle to a nearby repair shop if roadside maintenance doesn't cut it. 

Changing a flat tire is another service offered by roadside assistance. If you're stuck with a flat, a representative can be sent to your location to change your tire. 

If you unexpectedly run out of gas, roadside assistance can arrange for fuel delivery, and you'll only need to pay for the gas. If you lock your keys in your car or can't get in for some other reason, roadside assistance can send a locksmith to help you get back in. 

If you have a dead battery, a professional can come to jumpstart it. Finally, winching is offered to help pull a car with a chain or rope if it's stuck in snow, ice, or mud. 

You'll need to pay a monthly or annual fee to your provider to use these services. But some providers also offer pay-per-incident options for those who don't need the service frequently.

Regardless of which option you choose, having roadside assistance can give you peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away in case of an emergency.

Choosing a Roadside Assistance Plan

You have a few options to consider when choosing a roadside assistance plan. For example, you might be able to get coverage through your car insurance company, a membership organization like AAA, your car manufacturer, your cell phone provider, or your credit card company.

It's important to compare different companies and plans before making a decision. Look at their average response times for service calls, whether memberships cover all costs or if you'll need to seek reimbursement, whether calls cover accidents or just electrical/mechanical failure, and how often and for what distance towing is covered.

Don't make your decision solely based on cost. While some options may be pricier than others, roadside assistance programs aren't one-size-fits-all, and many people will benefit from having a plan in place.

If you have teens riding with friends, you may even want to sign up for coverage for their cell phone lines. Once you've decided on a plan, make sure that everyone who is covered has the phone number programmed into their cell phone or written down in a wallet.

It would be best to keep the information easily accessible in the car to access it in an emergency quickly. By choosing a reliable roadside assistance plan and being prepared, you can have peace of mind knowing that help is just a phone call away when you need it.

Do You Need Roadside Assistance Coverage?

Deciding whether to purchase a roadside assistance plan is a personal choice that depends on your circumstances. For example, if you only drive short distances or already have coverage through your car manufacturer or credit card company, you might not need the extra protection.

And if you rarely use roadside assistance, you might be comfortable paying out of pocket on those rare occasions. However, there are situations where an emergency road service plan can be extremely helpful and even save you money in the long run. 

For example, investing in a roadside assistance plan might be worth it if you have an upcoming road trip, a long commute, or an older car or prefer the convenience of coverage.

Membership organizations can also offer additional benefits that may be appealing to you. Additionally, if you aren't familiar with service garages or car mechanics, having a roadside assistance plan can provide peace of mind and help you feel more prepared in case of an emergency.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase roadside assistance coverage is up to you and depends on your unique circumstances and preferences. Take some time to consider your options and weigh the potential benefits and costs before deciding.

Is Roadside Assistance Worth It?

When deciding whether to purchase a roadside assistance plan, it's important to consider factors such as the plan's cost, the age and mileage of your vehicle, how frequently you drive, and your location. Roadside assistance can be particularly beneficial for drivers of older cars or those who frequently drive in rural areas with fewer accessible services.

Additionally, roadside assistance may be more critical in areas with harsh winters or other extreme weather conditions. Beyond basic services like towing and tire changes, some roadside assistance plans offer additional benefits like discounts at restaurants and other businesses. 

Roadside assistance provides a sense of security and help drivers in unexpected situations. Many drivers may find it worth the investment, especially if they have an older vehicle, drive frequently, or live in areas with harsh weather conditions.

Some standalone roadside assistance plans offer added benefits such as discounts and rewards programs that may make the investment even more appealing. However, it's important to weigh the cost of the service against the potential benefits.

You might also want to consider your driving habits and circumstances when deciding whether roadside assistance is worthwhile. But ultimately, the decision to purchase roadside assistance coverage is a personal one that depends on your individual needs and circumstances.

Getting Roadside Assistance For New Or Used Cars

If you're purchasing a new or used car that is still under warranty, you may have access to free roadside assistance coverage for a limited time or mileage. The specifics of this coverage can vary depending on the manufacturer and your warranty. 

Some manufacturers may offer roadside assistance for a certain number of years or miles, while others may offer it for the duration of the warranty. That's why checking your warranty paperwork is important to see if you have roadside assistance coverage and what services are included.

Covered services may include towing, tire changes, jumpstarts, and more. However, the services offered may also be limited to certain dealerships or repair shops. If you experience a breakdown or issue, you may need to tow your car to a specific location, which could result in higher repair costs.

If you purchase an extended warranty for a used car, you may also have access to roadside assistance. The terms and conditions of this coverage may vary depending on the warranty provider.

Some extended warranties may include roadside assistance as part of the package, while others may require an additional fee. If you're considering purchasing an extended warranty, reviewing the coverage details and what services are included is important.

It's worth noting that you should only purchase a warranty to obtain roadside assistance. While roadside assistance can be valuable, it shouldn't be the only factor you consider when purchasing an extended warranty. 

Instead, focus on the overall coverage the warranty offers and whether it provides sufficient protection for your vehicle.

Roadside Assistance Prices

Getting a roadside assistance plan with big insurance companies is a smart way to get cheap roadside assistance. As you may have observed, major insurance companies offer roadside assistance price plans that range from $10- $80 annually.

Hence, making way for affordable prices that almost anyone can afford. All service providers' average roadside assistance price ranges between $40- $50. 

However, this price depends on location, car type, and the roadside assistance service provider you work with.

Roadside Assistance Service Providers; What Do They Mean? 

Have you been on the road, and something just went wrong with your car? Casting your mind back, you would recall how desperately you might have needed help. But, at that point, all you needed was roadside assistance.

Roadside assistance service providers are service provider that helps out when your car breaks down or when you run into trouble while traveling. Most providers offer 24/7 emergency roadside assistance, so you can always call no matter what time of day you need them.

Generally, roadside assistance service is affordable since there are many ways to get cheap roadside assistance. Although plans may vary depending on the various service you want, most Roadside Assistance services also offer basic services like towing and jumpstarting.

Roadside Assistance Service Providers help offer services like car towing, fueling of vehicles, changing car tires, and offering their normal service when you encounter issues as a motorist. First, however, you must register with their company and pay for any roadside assistance plan you want to get their assistance.

How to Become a Roadside Assistant

If you've been wondering how you could become a roadside assistant, know that the first step is to enroll with an organization that offers roadside assistance services, where you can get trained.

The training you receive would show you how you can help motorists when encountering any issue on the road.

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