When you're out on the road, the last thing you want is to be stranded with a flat tire, a dead battery, or an empty gas tank. That's where roadside assistance comes in, and Allstate offers a variety of options to get you back on track. But how much does Allstate roadside assistance really cost? Let's break it down in a clear, step-by-step guide.
How Much is Allstate Roadside Assistance? Your Comprehensive Guide to Getting Covered
Are you tired of the nagging worry about what might happen if your car breaks down far from home? Imagine this: You're on a long road trip, singing along to your favorite tunes, and suddenly, your engine sputters and dies. Or perhaps you're rushing to an important appointment, and a nail decides to make friends with your tire. In moments like these, having reliable roadside assistance can turn a stressful situation into a manageable inconvenience. Allstate, a name synonymous with insurance, also provides a range of roadside assistance options, but understanding their pricing and benefits can be a bit like navigating a maze. Don't worry, we're here to guide you through it!
Step 1: Discover Your Allstate Roadside Assistance Options – What's Your Flavor of Coverage?
The very first thing you need to understand is that Allstate doesn't offer a "one-size-fits-all" roadside assistance plan. Instead, they provide three distinct pathways to get covered. Which one is right for you will depend on your current relationship with Allstate and how frequently you anticipate needing assistance.
Sub-heading 1.1: The Insurance Add-on (For Allstate Auto Policyholders)
If you already have an Allstate car insurance policy, this is often the most affordable and convenient option. You can simply add roadside assistance coverage to your existing policy.
- Cost Insight: This can be as low as $25 per vehicle per year. This makes it an incredibly cost-effective way to get peace of mind.
- Key Benefit: It's seamlessly integrated with your existing insurance, making billing and management straightforward.
- Ideal For: Existing Allstate auto insurance customers who want basic, affordable roadside coverage for their insured vehicles.
Sub-heading 1.2: Membership Plans (For Everyone, No Allstate Policy Required!)
Don't have Allstate auto insurance? No problem! Allstate offers standalone membership plans through its Motor Club, accessible to anyone. These plans provide more comprehensive benefits and are designed for those who want dedicated roadside coverage.
Allstate generally offers two primary membership tiers:
- Roadside Assist: This is their basic membership plan.
- First-Year Cost: Approximately $73.
- Renewal Cost: Around $78 per year (or $6.50 per month).
- Key Features: Includes towing (typically up to 10 miles), jump starts, fuel delivery (you pay for the fuel), lockout service, and tire changes. You get up to 5 rescues a year. It covers two people for the listed price, and you can add up to 5 additional household members for an extra charge (around $45 per year).
- Roadside Advantage: This is their premium membership plan, offering more benefits.
- First-Year Cost: Around $89.
- Renewal Cost: Approximately $105 per year (or $8.75 per month).
- Key Features: Includes all the benefits of Roadside Assist, plus trip interruption benefits (up to $1,500 reimbursement for expenses like lodging, meals, and car rentals if you break down more than 100 miles from home) and tire and wheel repair/replacement (up to $100 reimbursement for road hazard damage, twice a year). Similar to Roadside Assist, it covers two people initially, with options to add more household members.
- AARP Member Discount: If you're an AARP member, you can often get discounted rates on these membership plans. For example, Roadside Assist might be $66 for the first year (renewing at $83) and Roadside Advantage might be $76 for the first year (renewing at $89). This is a significant saving, so always check for eligibility!
- Ideal For: Drivers who don't have Allstate auto insurance but want reliable, comprehensive roadside assistance, especially those who travel frequently or have older vehicles.
Sub-heading 1.3: Pay-Per-Use (For Occasional Needs)
This option is perfect for those who rarely need roadside assistance but want the security of knowing they can get help on demand without a recurring fee.
- Cost Insight: Pricing is per service and can vary based on the type of assistance needed and your location.
- Towing: Starts at around $154 per tow, but the price depends on the service request and distance.
- Other services (jump start, lockout, flat tire, fuel delivery): Can be around $69 per incident for basic services.
- Key Benefit: No annual fees or commitments. You only pay when you use it.
- Ideal For: Drivers who are confident they won't need roadside assistance often, or those who prefer to pay only when a problem arises. It's a great "emergency backup" if you don't have other coverage.
Step 2: Understand What's Covered – Beyond the Price Tag
Knowing the cost is crucial, but what do you actually get for your money? Allstate's roadside assistance generally covers a range of common roadside emergencies. While the specific limits might vary slightly between the add-on, membership plans, and pay-per-use, here are the typical services you can expect:
- Towing: If your vehicle can't be driven, Allstate will tow it. Pay close attention to the towing distance limit in your chosen plan (e.g., 10 miles for basic plans; premium plans or higher-tier options may offer 100 miles or more). Beyond this limit, you'll be responsible for the additional cost.
- Battery Jump-Starts: For those times your battery decides to call it quits.
- Flat Tire Changes: They'll change your flat tire with your inflated spare. If you don't have a spare, or if it's not usable, towing may be provided.
- Fuel Delivery: If you run out of gas, they'll bring you an emergency supply (typically up to 2 gallons). You will usually be responsible for the cost of the fuel itself.
- Lockout Service: Accidentally locked your keys inside your car? They'll help you get back in.
- Winching: If your vehicle is stuck in a ditch, mud, or snow (and is accessible from a traveled roadway), they can help extricate it. There might be time or dollar limits on this service.
Sub-heading 2.1: Additional Benefits with Membership Plans
As highlighted in Step 1, the membership plans (Roadside Advantage in particular) often come with perks that go beyond basic roadside assistance:
- Trip Interruption: This is a big one for travelers! If your car breaks down far from home (e.g., over 100 miles), this benefit can reimburse you for unexpected expenses like lodging, meals, and car rentals while your car is being repaired.
- Tire and Wheel Repair & Replacement: Offers reimbursement for damage to your tires or wheels due to road hazards.
- Discounts and Other Services: Some membership tiers might include access to travel discounts, trip planning tools, or even legal defense benefits.
Step 3: How to Get Allstate Roadside Assistance – Requesting Help When You Need It
So, you've decided on a plan, and now you're in a pinch. How do you actually get help from Allstate? They offer multiple convenient ways to request service.
- The Allstate Mobile App: This is often the fastest and most efficient way to request help. The app uses your phone's GPS to pinpoint your location, allows you to specify the service you need, and often provides real-time tracking of your service provider's arrival. You can also pay for pay-per-use services directly through the app.
- Phone Call: You can always call Allstate directly for roadside assistance. The main number is generally 1-800-347-8880. If you're an AARP member with Allstate Roadside, their dedicated number is 1-800-555-1121.
- Online Request: Allstate also offers an online portal where you can request assistance.
Remember: If you have an Allstate roadside membership, your benefits usually become active a couple of days after signing up (e.g., 72 hours or two days). Pay-per-use is available immediately.
Step 4: Comparing Allstate to Other Providers – Is it Worth It For You?
While Allstate offers competitive pricing and comprehensive services, it's always wise to consider how they stack up against other providers like AAA, your car manufacturer's roadside assistance, or even benefits from your credit card.
- Coverage Area: Allstate offers coverage across the U.S. and Canada, which is a major plus for travelers.
- Response Time: Many users report positive experiences with Allstate's response times, often within 30 minutes, although this can vary based on location and demand.
- Towing Limits: Be mindful of the towing limits. If you anticipate needing longer tows frequently, a premium plan or a different provider with higher limits might be more suitable.
- Additional Perks: If benefits like extensive trip interruption coverage, specific RV/motorcycle coverage, or discounts on travel are high priorities, compare Allstate's offerings with dedicated motor clubs.
Ultimately, the "worth" of Allstate roadside assistance comes down to your individual driving habits, vehicle age, and personal comfort level. For an Allstate auto policyholder, the add-on is often a no-brainer due to its low cost. For others, the membership plans offer robust coverage, especially for those who value peace of mind on the road.
10 Related FAQ Questions (How to...) with Quick Answers
How to choose the right Allstate roadside assistance plan?
Consider your current Allstate policies, how often you travel, the age of your vehicle, and your budget. If you have Allstate auto insurance, the add-on is cheapest. For more benefits or if you're not an Allstate insurance customer, a membership plan (Roadside Assist or Advantage) is a good choice. For very infrequent needs, pay-per-use works.
How to get immediate roadside assistance from Allstate without a plan?
You can use Allstate's pay-per-use service. Simply download the Allstate Mobile App or call their general roadside assistance number (1-800-347-8880) to request and pay for the service on demand.
How to add Allstate roadside assistance to my existing auto policy?
Contact your Allstate agent directly, log into your My Account online portal on the Allstate website, or use the Allstate Mobile App to inquire about adding this coverage.
How to renew my Allstate Roadside membership?
Allstate Roadside memberships are typically on a 12-month renewal cycle. You'll usually receive a renewal notice, and you can manage your membership online or by calling their customer service.
How to track my Allstate roadside assistance request?
If you request service through the Allstate Mobile App or online, you'll typically receive real-time updates and can track your service provider's location on a map.
How to use Allstate roadside assistance in a rental car?
Yes, Allstate Roadside membership plans generally cover you in any car you drive or ride in, including rented or borrowed vehicles.
How to get reimbursed for an Allstate roadside assistance service if I paid out of pocket?
If Allstate cannot locate a service provider in your area or you use your own provider, you may be reimbursed up to a certain limit (e.g., $100). You usually need to contact Allstate first and then submit your receipt along with your details.
How to include other household members in my Allstate Roadside plan?
Most Allstate Roadside membership plans allow you to include a second household member at no additional charge. You can often add up to 5 additional household members for an extra annual fee.
How to find out if my current Allstate auto insurance policy includes roadside assistance?
Check your policy documents, log into your Allstate online account, or contact your Allstate agent directly.
How to cancel my Allstate Roadside membership?
You can typically cancel your Allstate Roadside membership by contacting Allstate's customer service directly via phone or through your online account management portal.