See what roadside assistance cover in car insurance includes, like towing and flat tyre help, and who should take it. Check your options and get a quote.
Roadside assistance cover is an add-on that sends help when your car breaks down on the road. It usually includes towing, a flat tyre change, battery jump-start and fuel delivery. It does not repair major faults, but it saves you from being stuck.
If you travel long distances or drive at night, this add-on can give real peace of mind. Terms differ by insurer, so always read your policy wording.
What is roadside assistance cover?
Roadside assistance (often called RSA) is a service add-on to your comprehensive car insurance policy. When your car stops on the road, you call a helpline. The insurer or its partner sends a mechanic or a tow vehicle to you.
It is different from an accident claim. You do not need an accident to use it. A dead battery or a flat tyre is enough.
What does it usually include?
Services differ, but many plans offer:
- Towing: Your car is taken to the nearest garage after a breakdown or accident, usually up to a set distance.
- Flat tyre help: A mechanic changes the tyre with your spare.
- Battery jump-start: Help when the battery is dead.
- Fuel delivery: A small amount of fuel is brought to you if you run out.
- Minor on-spot repair: Simple fixes that can be done on the road.
- Key problem help: Help if you lock the keys inside or lose them.
- Taxi or stay help: Some plans may help with travel or a hotel in case of a long delay. This is not common, so check.
What is usually not included?
Be clear about the limits so you are not surprised:
- The cost of spare parts, tyres or fuel is usually paid by you.
- There is often a limit on the number of calls in a policy year.
- Towing distance is usually capped.
- Repairs at the garage are not part of roadside assistance.
- Help may not be offered in remote areas with no service network.
Always check the helpline hours too. Some services work round the clock, while others do not.
How it differs from a claim
A claim and a roadside call are not the same thing:
- An accident or damage claim goes through a surveyor and pays for repair as per your policy.
- A roadside assistance call is a service request. Help is sent to you, and no surveyor visits.
- Using roadside assistance usually does not count as a claim, so it does not reduce your No Claim Bonus. Check your policy to be sure.
If your car is damaged in an accident, you may need both. First get the car to safety with towing, then start the claim. Read our post on the car insurance claim process for the steps.
Who should take roadside assistance?
This add-on is useful if:
- You drive long highway trips often.
- You travel with family or children.
- You drive alone, especially at night.
- You live in a city where breakdown help is hard to get quickly.
- Your car is older and more likely to face small failures.
It may be less useful if you drive only short distances close to home and already have a separate motor club or car-maker support plan. Do not pay twice for the same service.
What to do when you need help
If your car stops on the road, stay calm and follow these steps:
- Move the car to the side if it is safe. Turn on the hazard lights.
- Keep the passengers safe, away from traffic.
- Call the roadside assistance number from your policy.
- Share your policy number, vehicle number and exact location.
- Note the name of the person who is coming and the expected time.
- Keep the receipt or service note for your records.
Save the helpline number in your phone today. It is hard to find a policy paper in an emergency.
How to pick a good plan
Compare the details, not just the add-on name:
- How many calls are allowed in a year?
- What is the towing distance limit?
- Is the service available across India or only in some cities?
- Are there any waiting times?
- Does it work at night and on holidays?
Our guide to car insurance add-ons shows how roadside assistance fits with other covers. When you renew your car insurance, review whether you still need it. If you want help to compare, you can get a quote and ask our team.
Insurance terms and rules can change, and each insurer has its own conditions. Your policy document is the final word on what is covered.
FAQs
Is roadside assistance compulsory in car insurance?
No. It is an optional add-on. Only third-party cover is compulsory under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Does roadside assistance affect my No Claim Bonus?
Usually no, because it is a service and not a damage claim. Still, check your policy wording to be sure.
Does it cover repair of my car?
No. It helps you on the road, for example with towing or a flat tyre. Repair costs are handled through a normal claim, if the damage is covered.
Can I use roadside assistance as many times as I want?
Usually not. Most plans set a limit on the number of calls per year. Check the limit before you buy.
This guide is for information only. Rules and policy terms can change, and the policy document is final. Please read your policy wording.