Should you add roadside assistance coverage to your auto policy?
As a driver, you know that there are certain types of auto insurance in North Texas, that you are legally required to carry. However, in addition to this essential coverage, you have the option to add supplemental forms of coverage to your car insurance policy. For instance, you can secure coverage for roadside assistance. But is this coverage right for you? Here’s what you should consider about roadside assistance.
What Does Roadside Assistance Cover?
Roadside assistance is coverage that helps drivers when their car breaks down. Typically, drivers secure this coverage through their auto insurance provider, and almost every carrier offers this optional coverage. Adding roadside assistance to your auto policy will usually cover the following:
- Towing services
- Battery jump-start or replacement
- Flat tire service
- Fuel delivery
- Lockout services
- Extrication services
Who Needs this Coverage?
Adding roadside assistance to your auto insurance policy will mean an increase in your rates. This leaves many drivers to wonder if this coverage is actually worth it. Insurance experts recommend this coverage depending on the following factors:
- Vehicle age– If you have a newer car, then your chances of dealing with a mechanical issue are pretty slim. Since you do not need to worry about your engine overheating or your battery dying on you, you need to consider the likelihood of needing other roadside services. If you feel like your risk for getting stuck in a ditch or running out of gas is low, then you are probably safe to skip the roadside assistance coverage. However, if you drive an older car that has a history of mechanical or engine troubles, then you should invest in roadside assistance coverage. This ensures that you get the help you need when your car inevitably breaks down again.
- Distance and Commute– Another thing to consider when it comes to roadside assistance coverage is the distance you drive when commuting or running errands. If you tend to stay close to home, then you may be close enough to a mechanic that can deal with your car’s issues. In this case, there’s no need to pay for roadside assistance. However, if you regularly drive long distances or travel to areas that you are not familiar with, then roadside assistance is a great investment. This is because the more you drive, the more likely you are to experience issues with your car. Additionally, if you are in an unfamiliar location when your car breaks down, then simply calling for roadside assistance is a safer way to get reliable and trustworthy help with your car.
- Convenience– Roadside assistance is a very convenient way to get the help that you need. When you call for roadside assistance, a professional will come to you and make the repairs that you need right there. There’s no need to move your car to a service center, make an appointment with a mechanic, and wait for hours until someone finally gets to your car. So, if you want the best way to have your car fixed and back on the road as soon as possible, then roadside assistance is a great investment for you.
- Your Auto Knowledge– Car enthusiasts who can take care of minor car issues on their own usually do not need roadside assistance for mechanical or engine trouble. So, you need to consider whether or not you would need other roadside assistance services such as lockout, extrication, or fuel delivery services. If you don’t know anything about repairing or servicing your car, then roadside assistance is highly advised, as you will not be able to diagnose and fix mechanical issues on your own.
This is what you need to know about roadside assistance coverage. Do you have more questions about your auto insurance in North Texas? If so, then contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency. Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers, including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.