Some companies do count roadside calls as claims, which can mess with your rates—even if it’s just a tow.
That’s exactly what happened to me last year—needed a jump in the grocery store parking lot, figured I’d use my insurance since it was “included.” Next renewal, my rate crept up. Coincidence? Maybe, but I’m suspicious. AAA’s saved me a few times and never messed with my premiums. Anyone else feel like insurance is just waiting for an excuse to bump up your bill?
Honestly, I’ve heard mixed things about insurance roadside counting as a claim, but I’ve used mine twice (once for a flat, once for a dead battery) and my rate didn’t budge. Maybe it depends on the company or state? I get why AAA feels safer though—my dad swears by them. Still, I kinda like having everything bundled in one place. Less stuff to keep track of, you know?
Still, I kinda like having everything bundled in one place. Less stuff to keep track of, you know?
I get the appeal of bundling, but honestly, as someone who’s had a couple speeding tickets and a fender bender, I’m super cautious about what goes through my insurance. My rates jumped for stuff I didn’t even expect. Once I called roadside for a lockout, and my insurer flagged it as “usage”—didn’t count as a claim, but somehow my renewal was higher. Maybe it’s coincidence, maybe not, but with AAA, at least I know it’s separate. I’d rather juggle an extra card than risk another rate hike...
Bundling sounds convenient, but I’ve learned the hard way that convenience isn’t always worth it—especially when you’re driving something that costs more to fix than most people’s yearly rent. I had a minor incident (barely a scratch, honestly) and my insurer still found a way to nudge my premium up. Ever since, I’m wary about giving them any extra reason to “review” my file. Roadside through insurance just feels like another data point they can use against you.
AAA’s not perfect, but at least if I need a tow or a jump, it doesn’t end up in some mysterious “usage” category on my renewal notice. Plus, their service is actually decent—had a flat tire on a road trip last year and they showed up faster than I expected. Maybe it’s a little more hassle to keep track of another membership, but for me, peace of mind is worth the extra card in my wallet.
I get where you’re coming from. Insurance companies definitely track more than people realize, and even a simple roadside call can sometimes go in your file. I’ve seen folks surprised at renewal time when “incidents” they thought were harmless ended up nudging rates. AAA’s appeal is that separation—what happens with them stays with them, you know? I do wish their coverage was a bit more comprehensive in some areas, but for keeping your insurance record clean, it’s hard to argue against.
