Roadside assistance isn’t a widely offered benefit by unions and employers, but it could be the one your members use the most.
“It Won’t Happen to Me”
Many of us don’t think about the problems and stressful events that could happen to us on any given day. This is especially true when it comes to car trouble, which usually always means unexpected time and money to fix. But with 69 million breakdowns, or 1 out of every 3 drivers affected in the U.S. each year, there is a good chance you or one of your members will have some form of car trouble soon.
This is why roadside assistance benefits are helpful to anyone, even if you’re sure it won’t happen to you.
What Should Be Included in a Roadside Assistance Benefit?
Roadside Assistance is more than just having someone change a tire or jumpstart a battery. Beyond the convenience, having roadside assistance also offers safety for the drivers and passengers involved, should a breakdown occur on a busy highway at night, for example. Roadside Assistance will ensure any service would be provided using proper safety measures.
Full service roadside protection should include:
- 24-hour service
- Nationwide towing
- Emergency road service
- Delivery of emergency supplies such as gas, oil, and fuel
- Battery service
- Lockout service
Few Are Prepared, Leaving Most to Rely on External Help
Not learning how to repair common emergency car problems is another issue connected to the belief that car troubles aren’t something that need a plan.
Surveys have shown that only 42% of drivers feel comfortable changing a tire. On top of that, almost a quarter simply don’t know how. Without these skills, they’re forced to call a roadside assistance service for a broader range of problems.
These stats show how much of the population relies on roadside assistance companies, and why use of their services continues to grow.
Savings That Add Up
Since most breakdowns or issues require external assistance, paying for each incident yourself can quickly get expensive.
For example, on average:
- a 5 to 10-mile tow can cost $75-125
- fuel delivery ranges from $45 to as high as $100 by some individual gas stations
- and from $10 to $80 for a battery jumpstart
Being covered for expenses like this is why roadside assistance benefits are crucial. It will help you save money and provide peace of mind knowing that with a simple phone call, you will be connected to the necessary services at little to no cost.
Roadside Assistance through Member Resources
Member Resources’ Legal and Personal Protection Plan offers a streamlined and comprehensive roadside benefits experience to members with access through their union or employer.
Members receive a benefits card with one number to call if they have trouble and need their roadside benefits. The plan also includes many more benefits and access to our Member Service Representatives who provide friendly and personal support.
Schedule a brief call to discuss options and how we can help you. You can also fill out the contact form below to receive some informational materials to assist you in the process.
In-depth information about benefit plans is also available on our website.