Man, I hear you on those “unlimited” plans—had the same thing happen when my alternator gave out in the middle of nowhere. Towing guy just laughed and said, “You got 12 more miles, buddy.” Now I double-check the fine print and keep a flashlight and snacks in my glove box, just in case. Sometimes I wonder if these roadside add-ons are just a fancy way to sell peace of mind...
Sometimes I wonder if these roadside add-ons are just a fancy way to sell peace of mind...
Honestly, I’ve asked myself the same thing. I’ve had my fair share of “incidents” (let’s just say my driving record isn’t spotless), and every time I use roadside, it feels like I’m getting my money’s worth—until I hit those weird limits. Like, why is it always 15 miles? Who breaks down exactly 15 miles from home? Do you think they’re banking on most people never actually needing a tow, or is it just a numbers game for them? I keep paying for it, but sometimes I wonder if stashing cash for emergencies would be smarter.
Like, why is it always 15 miles? Who breaks down exactly 15 miles from home?
That 15-mile thing cracks me up every time. It’s like the insurance folks think we’re all living in sitcoms where breakdowns happen at the most “conveniently inconvenient” spots. Here’s how I see it:
- I drive a ‘72 Chevelle, so trust me, roadside isn’t just peace of mind—it’s practically a hobby.
- The limits are weird, but every time I’ve needed a tow, it’s been way more than 15 miles. Ended up paying out of pocket anyway.
- I do think they’re betting most people never call for help. Or if they do, it’s for a jump or a flat, not a full-on tow to the next county.
- Stashing cash is smart, but I’m not disciplined enough... I’d probably spend it on car wax or something.
Honestly, I keep the coverage for the small stuff—lockouts, dead batteries, etc. For big tows, you’re right, it’s kind of a numbers game. If your car’s reliable, maybe socking away a little “just in case” fund isn’t the worst idea.
That 15-mile thing is so random, right? I’ve always wondered if anyone actually benefits from it. Most of my breakdowns have been in the middle of errands with the kids, and it’s rarely that close to home. Still, having someone come out for a flat tire or when I lock my keys in (more times than I care to admit) has saved my sanity. I do wish they’d at least give you the option to pay a little extra for longer tows or something… does anyone’s insurance actually offer that?
I do wish they’d at least give you the option to pay a little extra for longer tows or something… does anyone’s insurance actually offer that?
Funny you mention that—some companies do let you upgrade, but it’s usually buried in the fine print or as a “premium” add-on. I’ve had folks call in furious after a 16-mile breakdown, thinking it was unlimited. It almost never is. Honestly, if you’re out in suburbia or rural areas a lot, I’d double-check what your plan actually covers... those miles add up fast when you’re stranded with groceries melting in the trunk.
