You turn the key, but your car won’t start.

You slide off an icy Minnesota road and can’t get out of the ditch.

Your tire goes flat in the middle of a cross-country road trip.

Who do you call?

Oftentimes, roadside assistance is your best bet.

So, what does it cover? Who offers it? And how can you find the option that’s right for you?

What services does roadside assistance cover?

Roadside assistance comes in different forms. But in general, it should cover these services.

• Towing - Depending on your package, roadside assistance may only cover towing for a set number of miles. If you exceed this number, there will often be an extra fee.

• Emergency refueling - Some services charge a sliding fee depending on the amount of gas your car needs, others charge a flat fee.

• Lockout service - If you get locked out of your vehicle, your roadside assistance provider may be able to get you back in. There will be an additional fee if a locksmith is needed. 

• Tire change - Many services offer tire patching as well. If you need a new tire, it will usually cost between $50 and $200.

• Jump-start - If your battery dies, a jump-start can give you the charge you need to get back on the road. Just remember to stop in at your local service station to see if you need to replace the battery.

• Winching - if you get stuck in a ditch (or a snowbank) and need help getting out. The fee for winching may increase if it takes more than one service vehicle or multiple team members to get your vehicle free.

Comparing Your Options

There are many different options for roadside insurance.

Many car insurance providers, including Allstate, Farmers, GEICO, State Farm, and Progressive, offer roadside assistance as an optional add-on. However, to be eligible for roadside insurance through your car insurance provider, you may be required to carry a select type of car insurance, like collision or comprehensive.

If you carry more limited auto insurance an independent service like AAA may be a better option. And if you don’t drive often, a fee-for-service option may be the most cost-effective choice. Just remember, costs can add up quickly with a fee-for-service option, so this may not be a good choice if you need frequent help.

Need more guidance? Check out this Consumer Reports article to learn more about your options for roadside assistance.

The Bottom Line: Is Roadside Assistance Right for You?

Most drivers will experience a breakdown at least once. So, getting roadside assistance is often a smart choice. You get peace of mind, and the assurance that if something goes wrong, you have someone to call.

However, roadside assistance is no substitute for a reliable vehicle.

At Poquet, we think that pre-owned luxury vehicles are a smart buy.

They offer an unbeatable driving experience, top-of-the-line safety features, and the most car for your money.

If that sounds like a good deal to you, check out our inventory online, or give us a call at (763) 522-2000. We’ll help you find the vehicle that’s right for you.