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Breakdowns happen. They happen to conventional, gas-powered cars and trucks. However, with the increasing intricacy of vehicles and the heightened interest in electric vehicles (EVs), issues happen. So, is a roadside assistance service from a provider like AAA worth it in 2024? Or are you better off saving your money?

Roadside assistance can save you from hot water, whether you drive a gas-powered economy car, an EV, or a motorcycle

Roadside assistance services may seem less important than arming yourself with comprehensive auto insurance and a serviceable spare tire. However, services can cover much more than a flat tire. Depending on the service, you could receive help with an empty fuel tank, a flat battery, locking your keys in your car, and even a catastrophic mechanical issue requiring a tow. In short, yes. Access to a roadside assistance service is worth it.

With the first popular electric cars, SUVs, and crossovers, “range anxiety” became a concern for early adopters. The term refers to a driver’s awareness that their battery will run flat before they reach a viable charging point. It’s not an irrational concern, either. It happens. As such, EV owners should consider keeping a roadside assistance service on hand. 

A Toyota sedan demonstrates that a roadside assistance service is worth it in the event of a breakdown.
A Toyota sedan on a flatbed truck | photovs via iStock

Years ago, as a younger driver living in Southern California, I earned the nickname “Mr. Impractical” by splitting my driving between a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro and a carbureted Harley-Davidson Sportster XL1200C. While I eventually coaxed both vehicles into some semblance of reliability, breakdowns were inevitable. Roadside assistance seemed to pay for itself after the first few instances of mechanical gremlins.

Therein lies the next point: assistance services extend beyond four-wheeled vehicles. Motorists can opt for services that cover motorcycles, RVs, and unconventional recreation vehicles. Considering a high-strung motorcycle can run into issues or leave you stranded without fuel, having a backup plan is a must.

Better yet, depending on your insurance policy or credit card perks, you may have access to roadside assistance without knowing it. Consult your policy or agreement for specifics. If not, a service like AAA isn’t prohibitively expensive. AAA says its base “Classic” coverage starts at as low as $5.99 monthly. However, with insurance providers like Nationwide and USAA offering services, you may not need a separate plan.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).