Should You Add Roadside Assistance To Your Insurance Policy?

A lot of people ask about towing and roadside assistance and whether or not they should add it to their auto policy.

Here’s what you should know. Most new cars come with towing and roadside assistance, at least during the warranty period. This is normally offered free. Check with the dealership where bought your car to see if you already have this coverage.

When you add towing and roadside service to your auto policy, there is normally an extra charge. Some companies offer it free, but many others charge for it. If it’s free, obviously you should take it. If there’s a separate charge, consider the following.

The towing and roadside endorsement on an auto policy only covers the car on that policy. If you have friends like mine, there’s a good chance some of them do not have this coverage, and if you're with them when their car breaks down, you're going to hoof it to the nearest repair shop with your friend.

I have a Southern California Auto Club membership, which covers towing and roadside service for any car you’re in. In the scenario mentioned above your service would have towed your friend’s car.

It costs a little more than the endorsement you can add to your policy, but like I said, it covers any car your in, not to mention you get discounts on admission to places like Universal Studios, Sea World, Knott’s Berry Farm and many others. Those savings can add up fast.