What are some situations where roadside assistance is beneficial?
Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver in a variety of stressful or unexpected scenarios, such as:
Flat tires or blowouts
Dead car battery or jump-starts
Locked keys in the car
Running out of gas
Car won’t start and needs towing
Getting stuck in snow or mud
Minor roadside mechanical issues
Whether you’re stuck in a parking lot or stranded on the side of the road, roadside assistance can help get you back on your way quickly and safely.
How do I request access to roadside assistance services?
If you have a roadside assistance membership (e.g. AAA or an automaker program), you can typically request help directly through your provider.
If you’re not part of these programs, you can still request roadside assistance. Look for pros who offer mobile roadside help, including jump-starts, flat tire repair, lockouts and more.
Just browse the profiles of professionals in your area, provide your product details and get in touch quickly to get back on the road or to a service center in your area.
What services are typically offered under roadside assistance?
Roadside assistance usually includes a wide range of basic emergency services, including:
Jump-starting a dead battery
Flat tire changes (if you have a usable spare)
Fuel delivery (usually 1 to 2 gallons to reach the next station)
Lockout service (to help retrieve keys from a locked vehicle)
Winching/extraction from snow, sand or mud
Minor on-the-spot repairs
Towing (usually up to a certain mileage limit)
Browse profiles or contact professionals directly to learn more about the specific services each offers.
How long does roadside assistance take?
Most roadside assistance providers aim to arrive within 30 to 60 minutes, though response time can vary depending on:
Your location (urban vs. rural)
Time of day
Weather or traffic conditions
Demand (e.g., during storms or peak travel hours)
Contact a pro in your area to get an up-to-date estimate on how quickly they would be able to assist you before making your decision.
Is roadside assistance available 24/7?
Yes, most national and reputable roadside assistance providers operate 24/7, 365 days a year. Whether it’s the middle of the night or a holiday, you can typically request help anytime.
That said, response times may vary during high-demand periods or in remote areas. Contact pros in your area to inquire about their specific availability.
Can you use roadside assistance at home?
Absolutely — many roadside assistance services will come to your home if your car won’t start, has a flat tire or needs towing. It’s a great option if your vehicle breaks down in your driveway or garage.
Some insurers or providers even encourage at-home service for non-urgent issues.