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Roadside assistance can be a valuable asset for drivers of all sorts, even with the most reliable cars. However, unless you plan ahead, you might not have access to vital roadside services until it’s too late. Fortunately, you might have access to roadside assistance services through insurance or credit cards without realizing it. 

Many credit card companies and insurance providers offer roadside assistance as part of their packages– with a caveat

Peace of mind is hard to come by these days. However, there are things we can do as adults to ease the stressors of daily life. One such thing we can all do (well, as adult drivers without a penchant for gambling) is make sure we have access to roadside assistance. That typically means paying for AAA or AllState Motor Club Services for assistance here in the United States.

I say that for our neighbors across the border and seas. For instance, drivers in the UK use the services of organizations like the Royal Automobile Club (RAC). Or drivers in Germany enlisting the emergency assistance of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club (ADAC) to get back on the road. However, we star-spangled motorists typically think AAA or the like. But maybe we don’t have to.

Fortunately, you may already have a credit card in your wallet or an insurance policy that entitles you to roadside assistance. For instance, Forbes reports that some Mastercard and Visa users could have access to roadside services in the event of a breakdown, flat tire, or short-distance tow. In addition to credit cards, some insurance providers will offer you roadside services, including 24-hour support. 

A flatbed truck picks up a Toyota sedan after a roadside assistance call.
Toyota sedan on a flatbed truck after a breakdown | krblockin via iStock

However, that doesn’t mean your services will be as robust or comprehensive as they would be with a standalone subscription. For instance, AAA Premier services will cater to motorcycles and tow up to 100 miles following the first 200-mile tow. As such, it’s a solid option for two-wheeled travelers. 

Moreover, using your insurance provider’s roadside assistance benefits too often might result in an increased premium. Still, you may want to check out the perks of your current credit cards and insurance policies; you might have access to services.

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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).