Towing VS Cheap Roadside Assistance – What’s the Difference?

From 2014-2018, AAA shared a survey for rescuing more than 35 million drivers in roadside accidents. The company assists many Americans with their broken cars. Owning a car is so risky these days because it may accidentally break down on the roadside.
But when it comes to this phase, you must know the major options. Two of the most widely used options are cheap roadside assistance and towing. But what is the basic difference between both of them? Continue to read and find out which option is suitable for you.
What is Cheap Roadside Assistance?
Cheap roadside assistance is a service provided to motorists who experience unexpected vehicle breakdowns or emergencies while on the road. It is designed to provide immediate help and support to drivers in situations where their vehicle becomes immobilized or inoperable. It may happen due to mechanical failures, flat tires, accidents, or other unforeseen events.
Typically, roadside assistance is offered through subscription-based plans or as an add-on service. These are provided by automobile clubs, insurance companies, or specialized roadside assistance providers. When a driver encounters a problem with their vehicle, they can contact the roadside assistance provider’s designated hotline for help.
What Exactly is Towing?
Towing refers to the process of moving a vehicle that is unable to operate under its own power. When a vehicle becomes immobilized due to mechanical failures, accidents, or other reasons, a tow truck or wrecker is used to transport it from one location to another.
Tow trucks are specifically designed vehicles equipped with mechanisms and equipment to safely lift and transport vehicles. Also, Learn About The Best Edmond Towing Service.
What is the Basic Contrast Between Both of them?
Roadside assistance and towing are related services but have some key differences. Here are the basic differences between roadside assistance and towing:
Scope of Services:
Roadside Assistance:
Roadside assistance typically offers a broader range of services beyond towing. It includes services such as jump-starting a dead battery, delivering fuel, changing a flat tire, providing lockout service, and offering minor repairs to get the vehicle back on the road.
Towing:
Towing is primarily used when a vehicle cannot be repaired on-site or when it is involved in a roadside problem and needs to be moved to a repair facility or another designated location.
Membership vs. Specific Service:
Roadside Assistance:
Roadside assistance is often offered as a membership-based service. Drivers pay a periodic fee or subscribe to a plan that provides access to roadside assistance services whenever needed. Members can contact the roadside assistance provider’s hotline for help, and services are available 24/7.
Towing:
Towing is a specific service offered by towing companies or as part of roadside assistance plans. While some towing companies may offer membership plans, towing services can also be requested on a one-time basis without the need for a membership.
Additional Services:
Roadside Assistance:
Roadside assistance plans often include additional services or benefits beyond basic assistance. These may include trip interruption coverage, discounts on travel services, emergency accommodations, or discounts on vehicle repairs.
Towing:
Towing services primarily focus on the safe transportation of disabled vehicles and may not typically include additional benefits or services beyond the towing itself.
Conclusion:
Cheap roadside assistance offers a broader range of services beyond towing and aims to address minor issues or emergencies to get the vehicle back on the road. Towing, on the other hand, specifically focuses on the transportation of disabled vehicles and is used when the vehicle cannot be repaired on-site or is not drivable.
While roadside assistance often requires membership or subscription, towing can be requested as a specific service when needed!