Whether you drive often or only on occasion, it's never a bad idea to have a roadside assistance policy in place. The right roadside assistance coverage can give you some much-needed peace of mind no matter where your travels take you. And if you ever find yourself broken down on the side of the road, you'll be happy to have somebody you can call for prompt assistance.
Not all roadside assistance policies are created equal, however, and there are some questions you'll certainly want to ask before you choose a provider.
How Far Will They Tow Your Vehicle?
Towing is one of the most basic services that should be included with a roadside assistance membership, but you'll want to find out exactly how many miles of towing are included with your plan. Some plans may only tow within a relatively small radius before they begin charging you for each additional mile.
Will They Cover You Nationwide?
If you do any amount of out-of-state traveling, you'll also want to make sure that you'll be covered while you're away from home. Not all roadside assistance providers have tow truck drivers and other employees located across the country, so you may be limited to using your plan in-state or within a certain mile radius.
Are They Available 24/7?
You'll want to make sure you have a roadside assistance plan that can be used 24 hours a day, seven days a week. After all, the last thing you want is to experience a vehicle breakdown in the middle of the night and not be able to get the help you need right away. Many roadside assistance providers are available on nights, weekends, and holidays—but it never hurts to check before you sign any kind of contract or service agreement.
Do They Include Lockout Assistance?
If you become locked out of your car, will your roadside assistance plan include locksmith coverage? Some companies may include this as part of their roadside assistance coverage, whereas others may charge extra for it. Either way, having lockout assistance as part of your plan can give you added peace of mind.
The right roadside assistance plan can protect you no matter where the road might take you, but it's important to shop around and ask a few key questions before you make a commitment. From there, you can purchase your roadside assistance policy and hit the road with confidence.
