Car trouble can happen at the worst possible time. Whether it’s the morning of an important job interview or while driving late at night in an unfamiliar city, a disabled vehicle can put you in a bad mood and sometimes even physical danger. 

Agero, an expert in roadside assistance, reports that 69 million vehicle breakdowns occur in the United States each year. That's equivalent to 1 in 3 drivers. Thankfully, if you have Roadside Assistance coverage, quick, expert help is just a button push or phone call away. The annual cost of this optional insurance coverage can be well worth the benefits. 

Here are six key benefits of Roadside Assistance insurance that will help you understand why you may want to add it to your auto insurance policy.

1. Roadside Assistance coverage protects you financially. 

When your car won't start, paying a service to tow your vehicle to the nearest repair shop can get expensive fast. Most tow companies charge a fee just for showing up, and then tack on $2 to $4 per mile. Some tow companies charge extra for after-hours and weekend service. And, a flatbed tow, which is necessary for all-wheel-drive vehicles, can cost even more. 

If you're driving outside of major metro areas, it can be 50 miles or more to the nearest repair shop or gas station, and a tow of that distance can really drain your wallet. Roadside Assistance coverage can cover the towing fee, subject to your coverage terms and conditions. 

2. Roadside Assistance coverage means you don't have to rely on friends for emergency vehicle assistance.

It can be risky to rely on friends or family to help you with a breakdown. Even if they’re nearby and available to help, friends and family may not have the equipment necessary to get you out of a bind. Roadside Assistance coverage gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing that the next time you experience a vehicle breakdown, you can quickly get the help you need using the Branch mobile app or by dialing our toll-free number. Branch’s roadside assistance gives you 24/7 access to emergency assistance. 

3. Roadside Assistance can provide more than just a tow. 

Branch’s Roadside Assistance coverage can help with more than just a tow home or to a repair shop. If you run out of gas, roadside assistance can deliver fuel to your location. If you’re stuck in the mud or snow, roadside assistance can help you get moving. If you’re locked out of your vehicle, roadside assistance can help with that too. Or, if you have a flat tire, roadside assistance can take care of the tire change for you. These services are available whether you're driving cross-country or haven't left your driveway.  

4. Roadside Assistance coverage can benefit other drivers in your household. 

Even if you've taught other family members how to change a tire, that doesn't mean they'll remember how to do it when the time comes. And you might not want your loved one fixing a flat on the highway shoulder while cars and trucks are speeding past. Because you buy Branch’s roadside assistance coverage on a per-vehicle basis, whether it’s you, your spouse or your children (or even a friend), anyone driving your covered vehicle will be able to access emergency roadside service. 

5. Roadside Assistance coverage is inexpensive.

Policy prices vary, with many costing less than a 10-mile tow to a repair shop. Call Branch or chat now to find out how much it costs to add Roadside Assistance to your policy. You may be pleasantly surprised.  

6. It’s easy to get Roadside Assistance coverage.

Adding Roadside Assistance coverage to your car insurance policy usually takes just one phone call or chat using Branch’s mobile app. You can get the coverage and peace of mind you need in just minutes.