I’ve actually had better luck with my insurance company’s roadside than AAA, which surprised me. Once, my car battery died in a parking garage and the insurance guy showed up in like 20 minutes. AAA took over an hour the one time I tried them. As for tipping, I usually offer a few bucks if they go above and beyond, but sometimes they just wave it off. It’s always a bit awkward.
I hear you on the awkward tipping thing—sometimes I just hand them a water bottle if I have one, especially in the summer. I’ve had both fast and slow service from AAA, so it really does seem to depend on who’s nearby. Curious if your insurance company uses local contractors or their own people? That might make a difference with response times.
I’ve noticed the same thing with AAA—sometimes they’re lightning fast, other times it feels like you could knit a sweater before they show up. From what I’ve seen, most insurance companies contract out to local tow outfits, so you’re basically rolling the dice on who’s available in your area. Personally, I lean toward AAA just because their network is so established, but I always tell clients to double-check the fine print on their insurance roadside coverage. Some policies have weird limits or only cover certain types of calls... not fun to find out when you’re stranded.
I’ve noticed the same thing with AAA—sometimes they’re lightning fast, other times it feels like you could knit a sweater before they show up.
I’ve seen both sides of this. Had a claim last winter where the insured waited nearly three hours for their insurance roadside—turns out the policy only covered a 10-mile tow, too. AAA isn’t perfect, but at least you know what you’re getting most of the time. Those “weird limits” in insurance policies can really catch people off guard.
I’ve seen both sides of this.
Those “weird limits” really are sneaky. I’ve had insurance roadside leave me stranded because I was just outside their tow radius—felt like a technicality. With AAA, at least you know the drill, even if sometimes you’re waiting long enough to memorize your VIN.