I get the convenience factor, but honestly, I’d rather stick with AAA. At least I know what I’m getting and the techs usually have the right gear. Insurance roadside just feels like a toss-up... I’d rather not gamble when I’m stranded somewhere, you know?
Totally get where you’re coming from. AAA’s been around forever and their process is pretty streamlined. With insurance roadside, it really depends on the provider—they usually contract out to local tow companies, so the quality can be hit or miss. I’ve seen some folks get quick, professional help, but I’ve also heard stories about long waits or techs showing up without the right tools. If you’re someone who wants that extra peace of mind, sticking with AAA makes sense. But if you’re just looking for a backup option and don’t mind a little unpredictability, insurance roadside isn’t the worst add-on.
I’ve actually used both, and honestly, it’s a toss-up. Had a flat tire on the way to work last year—called my insurance’s roadside and waited almost two hours. The guy who showed up was nice but didn’t have the right jack for my car, so I ended up calling a friend anyway. On the flip side, AAA was way faster the one time I locked my keys in the car. I guess if you’re not in a rush or just want a backup, insurance roadside is fine, but I wouldn’t rely on it for emergencies where time matters.
I’ve had insurance roadside for years, mostly because it’s cheap to add on. But honestly? When I got stuck in a sketchy part of town after a fender bender, they took forever—like, “watching the sun set” kind of forever. Had to flag down a tow truck myself. Learned my lesson: if you drive a lot or end up in weird spots (guilty), AAA is just more reliable. Insurance roadside is fine for minor stuff, but don’t count on it when you’re actually in a jam.
Insurance roadside is fine for minor stuff, but don’t count on it when you’re actually in a jam.
That’s kind of what I was worried about. I just added it to my policy last month since it was like $10 for the year, but hearing this makes me second-guess if it’ll actually help when I really need it. I drive all over for work, sometimes late at night, so “minor stuff” isn’t really what I’m worried about.
Honestly, if I’m stuck somewhere sketchy, waiting hours isn’t an option. AAA costs more, yeah, but if they actually show up faster, that’s worth it to me. Insurance roadside feels like one of those things that sounds good on paper but lets you down when it counts. Might just bite the bullet and get AAA too. Not gonna risk being stranded just to save a few bucks.
