Experiencing a car breakdown on the highway can be incredibly stressful. In such situations, help might not be readily available. Even with a cell phone, finding a reliable towing service quickly can be challenging. This is where roadside assistance plans become invaluable, especially for frequent drivers.
A roadside assistance plan operates similarly to insurance. By paying a fee, often less than a single tow, you gain access to services that can save you significant money and hassle. The cost of towing, particularly in rural areas with limited services, can easily exceed $100, making an assistance plan a wise investment.
Consider these options when exploring roadside assistance plans:
* **Your Car Insurance Company:** Many insurers offer basic towing services as an add-on to your existing policy. The cost is typically low, sometimes as little as $10 per year.
* **AAA (American Automobile Association):** Roadside assistance is a core benefit of AAA membership. For an annual fee, you gain access to towing, fuel delivery, flat tire assistance, and even locksmith services.
* **AARP (American Association of Retired Persons):** AARP provides roadside assistance plans to its members aged 50 and over, with costs comparable to AAA memberships.
Regardless of your vehicle’s condition, breakdowns can happen unexpectedly. While you can’t predict when or where a breakdown will occur, you can prepare for such emergencies. A roadside assistance plan is an affordable way to ensure you and your car are safely towed to a repair shop in the event of a roadside emergency, providing peace of mind on every journey.