It has happened to almost everyone who has driven for more than a minute. You’re off on a weekend getaway and suddenly, K-chunk, K-thump, Ssshhhhh, hiss, and silence. You broke down on the highway. With luck, you’re out of gas (though you will get some derision if that’s the case) and there is a station within walking distance. If it something worse, a tow bill is in the offing, and you can’t afford that. That’s why roadside assistance programs are a necessary part of the motoring experience. The time spent getting right is a hassle enough. You don’t need a breakdown to bankrupt you! That’s why Gildshire compiled this list of the best roadside assistance programs. Hopefully, it will ease the pain.
AAA:
When people talked about “The Auto Club,” this was it. AAA has three tiers of service. The least expensive (which we do not recommend) is called “classic,” and costs $66/year. That one gets you four tows a year (might be time for a new car), but the tows must be no longer than five miles, or there is an additional charge. If AAA is your plan, purchase the plus ($101/year) or the premier ($129/year) plan. The premier membership includes tow distances up to 200 miles from the location of the breakdown. All three tiers include battery service, including testing and installation of batteries at the roadside, and gas delivery.
Good Sam Roadside Assistance:
You’ve seen the friendly Good Sam logo on the back of a travel trailer, but you didn’t know that Good Sam is for automobile drivers, as well. Good Sam’s “Auto Platinum” coverage is one of the best around. They offer to tow your car to the nearest service station even if that station is many miles from where you broke down. Also, you get lockout assistance and tire changing services. Gasoline delivery and jump-starting dead battery services come with the plan. The Good Sam basic membership covers the car you own, and it’s on sale now for $69.95 a year. The premium package includes coverage for anything you drive, ride, or float. That one is $114.95 during the sale. When not on sale, each package price will increase by about $30 a year.
roadside assistance programs are a necessary part of the motoring experience.
Allstate Motor Club:
Another good assistance plan comes from the Good Hands People. The entry-level plan comes with a $100 tow benefit, and what Allstate calls Trip Interruption. They will give you up to $750 for lodging and meals if your breakdown brings your vacation to a screeching halt. The top plan offers road hazard coverage should a pothole eat your car, along with $250 in tow coverage. What makes Allstate unique in the category? They offer bail bond service if a road incident results in your arrest.
Best Roadside Service:
You may not have heard of this one, but they have been in business since 1962. They provide towing service up to 75 miles and a fuel delivery program that includes up to three gallons of gas free of charge. The Best Roadside Service plan includes 24/7 concierge service. So, if you are stranded and need a hotel room or rental car, they can arrange it or you. All of this for only $65 a year for a plan that follows one car, no matter how many drivers are behind the wheel during the coverage year. Another twenty bucks cover one driver no matter how many vehicles he/she drives.
We hope your trips are worry-free and filled with adventure and delight. If something happens to interrupt the fun, though, it is a good idea to have support. Choose the best roadside assistance plan for you.
