I've observed the same drop-off lately. It might indeed depend on regional factors or the local towing companies AAA contracts with. Had a similar experience last month—waited nearly two hours, and the driver mentioned they're short-staffed now more than ever. It's frustrating, but probably worth considering that staffing shortages and increased demand could be playing a big role here. Still, an extra hour wait is rough...hope your next roadside experience goes smoother.
Interesting points about staffing shortages, but I'm wondering if the issue is actually deeper than just recent staffing problems. Has anyone considered that AAA might be spreading themselves too thin with all the extra services and partnerships they've been pushing lately? I mean, they're offering discounts, travel planning, insurance bundles, and so on... could this diversification be pulling resources away from their core roadside assistance?
I remember five or six years ago, my battery died in the middle of nowhere—AAA showed up in like 20 minutes flat. Last summer, similar scenario, and it took over an hour. Sure, staffing shortages matter, but maybe it's also about priorities changing internally at AAA? Just thinking out loud here, but perhaps they're losing focus on what made them reliable in the first place.
You make a fair point, but I wonder if it's less about AAA spreading too thin and more about increased demand overall. I mean, roads seem busier than ever, and maybe more people are relying on roadside assistance these days? As someone who's still pretty new to driving, I'm cautious about relying solely on AAA anyway—always keep jumper cables and a backup plan handy just in case...
"roads seem busier than ever, and maybe more people are relying on roadside assistance these days?"
Could be, but honestly, is it really just about demand? I've noticed AAA's response times getting longer even during off-peak hours, when you'd expect them to be quicker. Had a flat tire last month—middle of the afternoon, not exactly rush hour—and still waited nearly two hours. Maybe it's less about how many people are calling and more about AAA's internal management or staffing issues?
Also, relying solely on AAA or any roadside service is risky anyway. Learned that the hard way when my battery died in a parking garage downtown. AAA couldn't even get their truck inside due to clearance issues. Ended up having to call a friend with jumper cables. Lesson learned: always have a backup plan, especially if you're driving something that isn't exactly standard...
"Maybe it's less about how many people are calling and more about AAA's internal management or staffing issues?"
Could be some internal stuff going on, but honestly, maybe it's also about infrastructure? I've noticed tow trucks and roadside vans seem bigger and bulkier these days—probably to carry more gear—but that means they're less maneuverable. Had a similar issue once where the AAA truck couldn't fit into a tight roadside spot. Makes me wonder if vehicle sizing and equipment choices are playing a role in response delays...
