How Much Does Roadside Assistance Cost?

Let’s be honest. Things are expensive nowadays. Insurance, car payments, mortgages; it’s almost overwhelming to think about. This also extends to car ownership and maintenance. You purchase a vehicle because you need transportation. But with that comes car payments, insurance policies, and roadside assistance coverage. As a car lover, I know how important it is to insure your ride. That includes having roadside assistance. You hope you never need to use it, but you’re thankful you have it when you have to. That’s because when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, roadside assistance can feel like a lifesaver. It’s easy access to much needed support when your vehicle is struggling. But just how much does roadside assistance cost? Is it worth the investment? Whether you’re new to driving and need an affordable roadside assistance plan, or a seasoned road warrior with more comprehensive needs, understanding the options and costs can help you make the best choice. Let’s break it all down!

How Much Does it Cost for Roadside Assistance?

More often than not, people opt to shop around for coverage. They want to ensure they can get the most bang for their buck. The more coverage you need, the higher the price you have to pay. The cost of roadside assistance varies widely depending on the provider, coverage, and plan type. For instance, if you travel a lot and think you need a farther towing radius than a basic plan, you may have to pay more to be able to get the type of towing you want. Other providers may also need you to add-on certain features as extras depending on the coverage you are looking for. Additionally, you may need to have a pre-existing policy with a provider before you can even sign up for roadside assistance. On average, a standalone roadside assistance plan can range from $50 to $150 per year. However, many providers offer additional coverage through memberships or auto insurance plans. 

Some key factors that affect the cost of roadside assistance include:

• Type of services included: Basic plans might only cover towing and flat tires, while comprehensive plans offer lockout services, fuel delivery, and more.
• Coverage limits: Plans may limit the number of service calls or towing distances.
• Provider type: Club memberships, insurance add-ons, or standalone services differ in pricing and perks.

How Much Does Roadside Assistance Cost Without Insurance?

If roadside assistance isn’t included in your car insurance plan, don’t worry. You still have options to ensure you’re covered during emergencies. One practical solution is to purchase a standalone roadside assistance plan. These plans are widely available and typically cost between $5 and $15 per month, depending on the provider and the level of coverage you select. They can include a variety of services, from towing and jump-starts to lockout assistance and fuel delivery.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to commit to a monthly plan, you can opt to pay for one-time roadside services as needed. However, it’s important to note that these ad-hoc services often come with higher costs. Here’s a breakdown of typical one-time service fees:

• Towing: Costs usually range from $75 to $125 for the first few miles, with an additional charge of $2 to $5 per mile beyond that.
• Lockout Services: Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 to regain access to your vehicle if you’re locked out.
• Jump-Starts: A professional jump-start can cost between $50 and $75, ensuring your battery is charged and ready to go.
• Fuel Delivery: Prices generally fall between $30 and $50, plus the cost of the fuel itself.

While paying per incident might seem convenient, these fees can quickly add up if you experience multiple issues in a short period. A standalone roadside assistance plan can be a more cost-effective option in the long run, offering peace of mind and often more comprehensive coverage.

Roadside Assistance Options

The great news is that when it comes to roadside assistance, you have a variety of options to fit your specific needs and budget. From premium memberships packed with extra perks to free services offered by your car manufacturer or insurance provider, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll dive into the top roadside assistance programs available today, highlighting their features, benefits, and costs. Plus, we’ll uncover some free or low-cost alternatives you might not have considered, ensuring you can stay safe and prepared on the road without breaking the bank.

Roadside Assistance with a Club Membership

Organizations like DriveSmart, AAA, and Better World Club provide annual memberships with comprehensive roadside coverage. AAA membership costs start at $59 per year, while premium tiers offering greater towing distances and extras can go up to $119 annually. These memberships often come with added benefits, like discounts on travel and dining.

Free Roadside Assistance Options

Surprisingly, there are plenty of services available at no cost if you know where to search. Many organizations and businesses offer free resources to help people in need, ranging from roadside assistance to financial advice or legal consultations. With a little research and the right connections, you can unlock valuable support without spending a dime. For instance, here are some options for roadside assistance:

• Cell Phone Companies: Verizon and AT&T offer roadside assistance as an add-on to mobile plans for around $3-$5 per month.
• Credit Cards: Some cards include complimentary roadside assistance as part of their perks.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: Many new cars come with free roadside assistance for the duration of the warranty (typically 3-5 years).

Insurance Roadside Assistance Costs

Adding roadside assistance to your car insurance policy is another cost-effective option. This allows you to pay a slightly higher fee for your insurance policy, and you get the added benefits of roadside assistance. Moreover, for many vehicle owners, this seems as an easier financial option. You pay to one provider rather than multiple companies, meaning all your benefits and perks are under one hat. For example:

• State Farm: Roadside assistance costs around $4-$7 per month.
• GEICO: Offers coverage for as little as $14 annually.
• Allstate: Provides pay-per-use services if you’d rather skip a membership.

Is Roadside Assistance Worth It?

If you’ve ever been stranded with a flat tire or dead battery, you know how stressful it can be. There is no place to charge or test it. What are you to do? I don’t know about you, but being stranded on the side of the road with a dead battery does not sound fun. But is roadside assistance worth the cost?

Pros:

• Peace of mind when traveling.
• Affordable coverage compared to one-time service costs.
• Comprehensive plans often include additional perks like discounts and rewards.

Cons:

• You may never use the service, making it feel like a wasted expense.
• Coverage limits can vary, so you might still pay extra in some situations.
• May require a tow if the battery cannot be recharged.

For frequent travelers or those with older vehicles, roadside assistance is worth every penny. However, if you rarely drive or have a newer car under warranty, you might find limited value in paying for a separate plan.

How to Get Roadside Assistance: A Comprehensive Guide

Roadside assistance is a lifesaver when you’re stuck on the side of the road, dealing with a flat tire, dead battery, or any other unexpected car trouble. Thankfully, accessing this service is straightforward, and you have several options to choose from. Here’s an in-depth look at how to secure reliable roadside assistance:

1. Join a Roadside Assistance Club

One of the most popular ways to access roadside assistance is by joining a club like DriveSmart. These memberships provide comprehensive coverage, including services like towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. Memberships often come with additional perks like travel discounts, trip interruption coverage, and personalized assistance plans tailored to your needs.

Why choose this option?

• Round-the-clock service.
• Nationwide coverage.
• Added member benefits beyond roadside assistance.

2. Add Roadside Assistance to Your Auto Insurance Policy

Many auto insurance companies offer roadside assistance as an add-on to your policy for a small monthly fee. This option integrates seamlessly with your existing insurance coverage and is often more affordable than standalone plans.

What’s included?
Coverage typically includes towing, jump-starts, flat tire changes, and lockout services. However, it’s essential to review the specific terms to ensure it meets your needs.

Tip: Contact your insurance agent to understand the full scope of services, limits, and any potential impact on your premium or claims history.

3. Purchase a Standalone Roadside Assistance Plan

If you prefer flexibility or don’t want to tie your coverage to a specific insurer or membership, standalone providers like Better World Club and Urgent.ly offer excellent alternatives. These providers cater to a wide range of needs, including eco-friendly options or pay-per-use services.

What makes this a great choice?

• Freedom to choose a plan that aligns with your driving habits.
• No long-term commitments.
• Competitive pricing with customizable coverage.

4. Look for Complimentary Coverage

Before spending money, check if you already have roadside assistance coverage through:

• Your Credit Card: Many premium credit cards include roadside assistance as part of their cardholder benefits. Check your card’s terms to confirm eligibility and understand the services provided.
• Vehicle Warranty: If your car is under warranty, especially for new vehicles, roadside assistance might already be included. Manufacturers like Toyota, Honda, and Ford often bundle this service with their warranties for a limited time.

Pro Tip: Double-check the specifics, such as service limits or expiration dates, to avoid surprises during an emergency.

5. Consider Pay-Per-Use Services

If you rarely drive or don’t want to commit to a membership, pay-per-use options are worth considering. Apps like Urgent.ly and HONK let you request roadside assistance as needed, without requiring a subscription.

Why it works:

• No upfront costs.
• Pay only when you need help.
• Real-time tracking of service providers via the app.

Comparing Roadside Assistance Providers

When choosing a roadside assistance plan, it’s important to compare providers based on your unique needs and lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

Best for Seniors: AAA

• AAA stands out as a top choice for older drivers, offering a range of benefits tailored to their needs. These include services like free towing, battery replacement, and even discounts on travel and dining. Seniors appreciate AAA’s reliable reputation, user-friendly mobile app, and 24/7 roadside support. Additionally, their loyalty rewards program can save members money over time.

Most Affordable: GEICO and State Farm

• If budget is your main concern, GEICO and State Farm provide some of the most cost-effective roadside assistance options. These plans are typically available as add-ons to existing car insurance policies, keeping prices low while still offering essential services like towing, fuel delivery, and lockout assistance. Their affordability makes them an excellent choice for those looking to balance cost with convenience.

Top Choice for Frequent Travelers: Allstate

• Allstate’s premium memberships, such as their Roadside Advantage or Platinum Elite plans, are ideal for those who spend a lot of time on the road. These plans go beyond basic roadside assistance, offering perks like trip interruption coverage, concierge services, and coverage for motorcycles or RVs. Frequent travelers also benefit from Allstate’s extensive network of providers, ensuring help is always close by.

Best Eco-Friendly Option: Better World Club

• For environmentally conscious drivers, Better World Club provides a sustainable alternative to traditional roadside assistance. This provider is committed to reducing its environmental impact by supporting green initiatives and offsetting carbon emissions. Members enjoy comprehensive, affordable roadside services similar to other providers, including towing and lockout assistance, with the added bonus of promoting eco-friendly practices. Better World Club even offers bicycle roadside assistance, catering to a broader range of travelers.

By evaluating these options based on your needs—whether affordability, senior-friendly perks, frequent travel benefits, or eco-conscious values—you can select a roadside assistance plan that ensures peace of mind whenever you hit the road.

How DriveSmart Can Help

If you’re looking for more than just roadside assistance, DriveSmart has you covered. With access to exclusive offers, personalized guidance, and comprehensive plans, we make sure you’re never stranded on the road. Join today to unlock the best deals and peace of mind for all your vehicle needs.

Don’t let unexpected breakdowns ruin your day. Sign up with DriveSmart now and experience the difference of expert assistance at your fingertips. Click here to join and stay prepared for every mile ahead!