subject: Auto Insurance Roadside Assistance [print this page] Auto Insurance Roadside Assistance
Many auto insurance policies have the option of carrying roadside assistance coverage. Roadside assistance protection is designed to assist client immediately when they are in need of a tow truck, jump start, lockout service, or tire change. Many times the customer will have a dispatch telephone number that they can call that is available 24 hours per day. The dispatcher will then call the nearest company that they have contracted with and request that they assist the client.
There are many limitations that are associated with the use of roadside assistance. Often the program will have a limit on the distance that the service can be used for. The industry standard is around 15 miles per disablement. Any additional distance needed will need to be paid for from the consumer at the rate that the tow truck company charges. There a commonly a maximum amount of disablements per policy period as well. Many companies will limit the amount of time that the insured could use the service to 5 or 6 times during the policy period.
Roadside assistance should not be confused with towing reimbursement coverage. This coverage is designed to reimburse the client for expenses associated with a disablement after the insured has paid for it. There will also be limitations per disablement such as a $50-$100 maximum.
Another significant difference between the two types of coverage is that roadside assistance is generally available on all policies that offer it. Many times the towing reimbursement coverage will only be available for policies that carry physical damage protection.
When shopping for auto insurance it is important that consumers check the availability of roadside assistance protection. The rates generally will range from $5-$7 per month.
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