Be Smart With Cars

When your car breaks down and you need an emergency tow, the costs can add up quickly. One way to minimize your expenses is to obtain roadside assistance coverage from your insurance company. Many major auto insurers offer this type of coverage for the convenience of their policy holders. Here is a closer look at some key aspects of roadside service coverage.

Examine Policy

In some cases, roadside coverage comes with a standard policy, depending on the particular insurer. In other instances, you might have to purchase it separately. Check your policy or contact your insurance agent to see if you already have this coverage. If you do not, then you typically have the option of adding it to your current policy for a reasonable fee.

Types of Assistance

When the average car owner thinks about roadside service, he tends to have assume it means having a vehicle towed to a repair shop. This is one important service covered by insurers, but other types of assistance are available also. For example, if you have a dead battery, the tow company can give you a jump start. Tire changes, lockout service and fuel delivery are generally part of the coverage as well.

Mobile Phone

Getting roadside assistance from any location is easy when you have a mobile phone. You simply call the number for assistance and they will send a tow truck from a local provider such as Superior Towing. If you are uncertain about your exact location, the insurance representative may be able to pinpoint your location by using data from the cell phone provider. Some companies may not offer this type of locating service, so check with your insurance company.                                

Reimbursement

If your car breaks down and you are unable to contact the insurer for some reason, you might have to pay the towing service out of pocket. This does not necessarily mean that you will not be compensated. Some insurers offer reimbursement for policy holders forced to pay their own expenses. You will need to keep the receipt from the towing company and mail or fax it to the insurer. Certain coverage limits may apply, so check your policy for the amount of coverage you purchased.

Clearly, having roadside service coverage is a good way to prepare for an emergency involving your car or truck. Knowing the insurer will cover any towing costs should an accident or breakdown occur provides you with peace of mind as you travel.