Getting stuck on the side of the road is a frustrating experience, whether it's a flat tire, a dead battery, or an empty gas tank. That's where roadside assistance comes in, providing a much-needed safety net. If you're a GEICO policyholder, you might be wondering how much it costs to add this invaluable service and what exactly it covers. Let's break it down!
Ready to Add Peace of Mind to Your Drive? Let's Get Started!
Before we dive into the specifics, ask yourself: Have you ever been stranded on the road and wished for immediate help? If the answer is yes, then adding roadside assistance to your GEICO policy could be one of the smartest decisions you make for your driving peace of mind. It's often much more affordable than you might think and can save you a significant amount of stress and out-of-pocket expenses when the unexpected happens.
How Much to Add Roadside Assistance to GEICO: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Adding roadside assistance to your GEICO car insurance policy is a straightforward process. Here's a detailed guide to help you through it:
Step 1: Understand the Cost – It's Surprisingly Affordable!
One of the most appealing aspects of GEICO's roadside assistance is its affordability. In most cases, GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) starts at approximately $14 per year per vehicle. Yes, you read that right – that's often less than the cost of a single tow or a jump-start from an independent service provider!
- Per Vehicle, Not Per Policy: It's important to note that this cost is per vehicle you wish to cover. So, if you have two cars on your GEICO policy and want roadside assistance for both, you'd pay around $28 annually.
- A Small Price for Big Benefits: When you consider the potential cost of a tow (which can easily be $50-$100 or more, depending on distance and location), a flat tire change ($25-$50), or a jump-start ($20-$40), the annual fee for GEICO's roadside assistance is a very small investment for the significant peace of mind and financial protection it offers.
Step 2: Know What GEICO Roadside Assistance Covers
Before you add it, it's crucial to understand what you're getting for your money. GEICO's Emergency Roadside Service typically includes a range of common roadside emergencies.
Sub-heading: Key Services Included:
- Towing: If your vehicle is undrivable due to a mechanical breakdown, accident, or other covered event, GEICO will arrange to tow it to the nearest repair facility. While some competitors like AAA offer unlimited towing miles, GEICO usually tows to the nearest facility. It's always a good idea to confirm your policy's specific mileage limit, as this can vary.
- Battery Jump-Start: A dead battery is a common inconvenience. GEICO will dispatch a service technician to jump-start your vehicle, getting you back on the road quickly. Note: They will jump-start, but typically do not replace the battery itself. Any cost for a new battery would be separate.
- Flat Tire Change: If you have a flat tire and a functioning spare, GEICO will send assistance to change it for you, saving you the hassle and dirty work.
- Lockout Services: Accidentally locked your keys in your car? GEICO's ERS often includes locksmith services, usually up to a certain limit (e.g., $100) for getting your keys out.
- Fuel Delivery: Running out of gas is a frustrating experience. GEICO can deliver enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station. Keep in mind that while the delivery service is covered, the cost of the fuel itself is typically your responsibility.
- Winching: If your vehicle is stuck in a ditch, mud, or sand on or immediately next to a publicly maintained roadway, GEICO can provide winching services to pull your vehicle free.
Sub-heading: What's Generally Not Covered:
While comprehensive, GEICO's ERS doesn't cover everything. Here are a few things generally not included:
- Cost of new parts or repairs: The service covers the assistance (e.g., the tow, the jump-start), but not the cost of a new battery, new tires, or mechanical repairs needed after a tow.
- Off-road recovery: If your vehicle is stuck far off a publicly maintained road, standard roadside assistance might not cover it.
- Service for vehicles not on your policy: GEICO's roadside assistance is tied to the specific vehicles listed on your auto insurance policy. Unlike some auto club memberships (like AAA), it won't cover a borrowed car or a friend's vehicle if it's not insured by your GEICO policy with ERS.
Step 3: How to Add Roadside Assistance to Your GEICO Policy
There are a few convenient ways to add Emergency Roadside Service to your existing GEICO auto insurance policy.
Sub-heading: Option 1: Online Through Your GEICO Account (Recommended!)
This is often the quickest and easiest method.
- Log In: Visit the GEICO website (
www.geico.com - Navigate to Your Policy: Once logged in, look for a section like "Manage Your Policy" or "My Policies." Select the auto insurance policy to which you want to add roadside assistance.
- Modify Coverage: Find an option to "Modify Coverage," "Add Coverage," or "Make Changes to My Policy."
- Select Roadside Assistance: You should see "Emergency Roadside Service" or "Roadside Assistance" listed as an available add-on. Select it.
- Review and Confirm: The system will typically show you the updated premium with the added service. Review the changes and confirm your selection. Your policy will be updated almost instantly.
Sub-heading: Option 2: Through the GEICO Mobile App
The GEICO Mobile App offers a seamless experience for managing your policy and requesting services.
- Open the App: Launch the GEICO Mobile App on your smartphone or tablet.
- Log In: Log in to your account.
- Find Roadside Assistance Option: Look for a "Roadside Assistance" or "Manage Policy" section within the app.
- Add Coverage: Follow the prompts to add Emergency Roadside Service to your vehicle(s). The app's user-friendly interface will guide you.
Sub-heading: Option 3: Call GEICO Directly
If you prefer to speak with a representative or have specific questions, calling GEICO is a great option.
- Dial the Number: Call GEICO's customer service line at (800) 841-1587. You can also call their dedicated Roadside Assistance line at (800) 424-3426 and inquire about adding the service.
- Provide Policy Information: Have your policy number and personal details ready to verify your identity.
- Request Addition: Inform the representative that you'd like to add Emergency Roadside Service to your auto insurance policy. They will walk you through the process, explain the cost, and answer any questions you may have.
Step 4: Review and Confirm Your Updated Policy
Once you've added the coverage, whether online, through the app, or over the phone, it's always a good practice to:
- Check Your Policy Documents: GEICO will typically send you updated policy documents (either digitally or via mail) reflecting the change. Review them to ensure the roadside assistance coverage has been successfully added.
- Understand Your Limits: Familiarize yourself with any specific mileage limits for towing or monetary limits for services like lockout assistance, as these can vary slightly by policy and location.
Why Add GEICO Roadside Assistance? The Benefits Outweigh the Cost!
Even if you have a relatively new car, roadside emergencies can still happen. A flat tire, a dead battery (especially on a cold morning!), or running out of gas are all common occurrences. Here's why adding GEICO roadside assistance is a smart move:
- **Cost-Effective:_ As mentioned, for a minimal annual fee, you're protected from potentially high out-of-pocket costs for emergency services.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that help is just a phone call or a few taps away can significantly reduce stress and anxiety when you encounter vehicle trouble.
- Convenience: Instead of scrambling to find a local towing company or a friend with jumper cables, GEICO handles the dispatching of service providers for you.
- 24/7 Availability: Roadside assistance is available around the clock, so you're covered no matter when an issue arises.
- Reliable Network: GEICO works with a network of service providers nationwide, aiming for quick response times (often within 60 minutes, though this can vary by location and demand).
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about GEICO roadside assistance, with quick answers:
How to request GEICO roadside assistance?
You can request assistance through the GEICO Mobile App, online via the GEICO website, or by calling their 24/7 Emergency Roadside Service line at (800) 424-3426.
How to know if I have GEICO roadside assistance?
Log in to your GEICO online account or mobile app, and review your policy details. Roadside assistance will be listed as "Emergency Road Service" or similar if you have it.
How to get reimbursed by GEICO for roadside assistance?
If you paid out-of-pocket for a covered service, submit the original bill (including your policy number) to GEICO. You can typically email it to towingrefund@geico.com, fax it to (866) 954-3761, or mail it to the address provided on their website.
How to cancel GEICO roadside assistance?
To cancel, you will generally need to call GEICO's customer service line at (800) 841-1587 and speak with a representative. It cannot typically be removed online or through the app directly.
How to find GEICO roadside assistance phone number?
The main GEICO Emergency Roadside Service number is (800) 424-3426. You can also find it on your insurance ID card or within the GEICO mobile app.
How to add roadside assistance for multiple cars on GEICO?
When adding online or by phone, specify which vehicles on your policy you wish to cover. The approximately $14 annual fee will apply per vehicle.
How to use GEICO roadside assistance with a new car?
Even new cars can experience flat tires or dead batteries. You use the service the same way as with an older car: request assistance via the app, online, or by phone.
How to compare GEICO roadside assistance with AAA?
GEICO's roadside assistance is an affordable add-on to your auto policy (around $14/year per vehicle) and covers the insured vehicle. AAA is a membership club (costs vary, typically $39-$132/year) that covers the member in any vehicle they are driving or riding in, and often offers additional discounts and benefits beyond roadside service.
How to know the towing limit for GEICO roadside assistance?
GEICO typically tows to the nearest repair facility. For specific mileage limitations, you should refer to your individual policy contract or contact GEICO directly.
How to get gas delivered with GEICO roadside assistance?
If you run out of gas, request fuel delivery through the app, online, or by calling. GEICO will bring enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station, though you'll typically pay for the cost of the fuel itself.
