• RV Valuator
1-866-205-7451Account

By checking this box and clicking Sign Up, I opt-in to receive promotional email communications about products or services or offers that may be of interest to me from the Camping World and Good Sam family of brands. I understand I can withdraw my consent at any time.

For questions, please see our Privacy Policy & California Privacy Rights

1-800-601-2850
[email protected]

What we offer

  • Home
  • RV Towing
  • 5th Wheel Towing
  • Motorhome Towing
  • Travel Trailer Towing
  • Car, Truck & SUV Towing
  • Corporate Roadside

Support

  • Claims
  • Contact Us
  • Affiliate Program

Learn

  • FAQ
  • Testimonials
  • Sitemap
  • Community

Our Affiliates

  • Camping World
  • Overton's
  • RV Sales
  • Membership & Services

Benefits and services provided by Americas Road & Travel Club, Inc. for Members residing in Alaska, Alabama, Utah, and Virginia; and by Affinity Road & Travel Club, LLC for Members residing in all other States. Note: All program benefits are subject to limitations set forth in the current Member Benefit Brochure which can be found at https://roadside.goodsam.com/brochures.

© 2025 Good Sam Enterprises, LLC.© 2025 Affinity Road & Travel Club, LLC.© 2025 Americas Road & Travel Club, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
FacebookTwitterYouTubePinterestInstagramTikTok
Privacy Policy
California Privacy Rights
Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
Targeted Advertising Opt Out
Investor Relations
Terms
Accessibility Commitment
Code of Conduct
© 2025 Good Sam Enterprises, LLC. GOOD SAM and the GOOD SAM ICON are registered trademarks of Good Sam Enterprises, LLC. Unauthorized use of any of GSE, LLC's trademarks is expressly prohibited. All rights reserved.
SubNav Logo
  • Why Us?
  • FAQ
  • Corporate Benefits
  • Resources
Join
Renew
•
Back to Resources
November 26, 2025 •Service

How to use roadside assistance

A roadside assistance worker in a high visibility safety vest looking under the hood of a car.
GS

Good Sam

“Using your roadside assistance plan is easy. Simply identify your provider, gather your information, call the assistance number, explain your situation, and wait for your technician to arrive. ”

Driving offers unmatched freedom; you decide where to go and when to leave, with no waiting and no rigid schedules. Whether you're commuting daily, embarking on a weekend trip, or setting out on a long-distance adventure, having your vehicle makes travel effortless.

But even the smoothest journeys can take an unexpected turn. A flat tire, dead battery, or running out of fuel can leave you stuck and stressed – particularly when help isn’t nearby. What started as a smooth journey can suddenly become an unexpected challenge.

That’s where roadside assistance becomes invaluable. A reliable support system ensures you get back on the road without unnecessary delays or stress. Knowing how to use roadside assistance properly helps you resolve unexpected troubles quickly and smoothly.

When Should You Use Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance is a vital service that can be a lifesaver, providing immediate help when your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly. It allows drivers to handle common vehicle emergencies efficiently and safely. You should consider calling for roadside assistance in the following situations:

  • Flat Tire: If you are unable to change a tire yourself or lack the necessary tools, roadside assistance can send a technician to help.
  • Dead Battery: If your car doesn’t start due to a dead battery, a technician can provide a jump-start or recommend a battery replacement if necessary.
  • Engine Trouble: If your vehicle stalls or does not start, roadside assistance can help diagnose the issue or arrange for towing.
  • Lockout Situations: Accidentally locking your keys inside your car is a common mishap. Roadside assistance can send a locksmith or use specialized tools to unlock your vehicle.
  • Out of Fuel: If your vehicle runs out of fuel, roadside assistance providers will supply enough to get you to the nearest fuel station, ensuring you are back on the road without unnecessary delays.
  • Vehicle Stuck: Whether you are stuck in mud, snow, or sand, roadside assistance can help to pull your vehicle out safely.
  • Towing Needs: If your vehicle breaks down and cannot be repaired on the spot, the roadside assistance team will arrange for a towing service to transport it to a repair facility.

Understanding how to use roadside assistance in these situations ensures you receive the right help in a timely manner and with minimal stress. With 24/7 emergency breakdown support for members, Good Sam Roadside Assistance is always ready to assist you in any emergency.

Step-by-Step: How To Request Roadside Assistance

Requesting roadside assistance is simple, but being prepared can make the process smoother. Follow these five steps for a speedy resolution:

Identify Your Coverage Provider

The primary step is identifying your roadside assistance provider. Knowing who to contact ensures quick and efficient support when you need it most.

This could be your auto insurance company, a membership service provider like Good Sam, or even a benefit included with your credit card or car warranty. Being aware of your provider ensures you can access help when needed.

Locate Your Membership or Policy Information

Before reaching out, have your membership ID or policy information handy. This is often available on your membership card, insurance app, or the roadside assistance paperwork you initially received upon enrollment.

Contact the Assistance Hotline or Use the App

Next, call the provider’s roadside assistance hotline or use their mobile app (if available). Many services also allow you to request an online help ticket.

Describe the Issue Clearly

When you speak to the representative or log your issue in the app, be clear and specific. Describe what’s wrong with your vehicle and provide your exact location. Sharing as many details as possible helps the service team assess your situation and send the right technician.

Wait for Confirmation and Technician ETA

Once your request is logged, you’ll receive confirmation and an estimated time of arrival (ETA) for the technician. Stay safely near your vehicle while waiting, and keep your phone handy for updates.

What To Expect During the Service Call

Once the technician arrives, they will evaluate the issue and provide the necessary assistance. Here’s what typically happens:

  • Verification and ID check: The technician will ask for your driver’s license and membership or policy information to confirm your identity and coverage.
  • On-site Service or Towing: Depending on the issue, the technician will either repair the problem on the spot (e.g., jump start, tire change) or arrange for towing to a repair facility.
  • Estimated Resolution Time: The technician will let you know how long the service will take.
  • Paperwork or app-based Closure: After the service is complete, you may need to sign a form or confirm the service through the provider’s app.

Roadside Assistance Coverage – What’s Included and Not

Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver, but only if you know exactly what your plan covers. While coverage varies depending on your provider and plan, here’s a general breakdown:

Things Included in the Roadside Assistance – Based on Plans

Roadside assistance plans typically include essential services like towing to a nearby repair shop or your preferred location within a set mileage, jump-starts for dead batteries, flat tire changes using your spare, lockout assistance, and emergency fuel delivery. For example, Good Sam Roadside Assistance offers nationwide access to trusted towing and service professionals, ensuring fast, dependable support whenever you need it.

Roadside assistance plans can differ significantly. Inclusions vary from plan to plan, so be sure to check the details to know what’s covered before you hit the road.

Make sure you review Good Sam’s Roadside Assistance plans before you hit the road.

What’s Not Covered With a Roadside Assistance Plan?

Roadside assistance plans have limitations, typically excluding major mechanical repairs, accident-related damage (which falls under auto insurance), and non-standard services like long-distance winching or help in hard-to-reach areas.

Coverage for RVs or trailers may also require upgraded plans. Additionally, frequent use of services like towing or jump-starts can result in extra fees or service denial. It’s important to review your plan details to understand what’s included and avoid surprises during emergencies.

A Roadside Assistance Plan Provides Peace of Mind

Roadside assistance is more than just a backup plan; it’s peace of mind. It allows you to travel with confidence, knowing that no matter where the road takes you, support is always within reach. So, the next time you get behind the wheel, don’t just hope for the best, be ready for anything. With roadside assistance in place, you can focus on the journey ahead, knowing that help is always just a call away.

Explore Good Sam’s Roadside Assistance and travel with confidence.

FAQs: Using Roadside Assistance Effectively

1. Can I call roadside assistance more than once?

A: Yes, but keep in mind that most plans have a yearly limit on the number of service calls. Exceeding this limit might result in additional fees.

2. Can you get roadside assistance without being a member?

A: Yes, some providers offer pay-per-use roadside services for non-members. However, it’s typically more expensive than having a subscription or coverage through insurance.

3. Do I have to be present for roadside assistance?

A: Yes, in most cases, either the driver or someone present with the covered vehicle needs to be there to verify the service request and assist the technician if required.

4. Can you request help if you’re not the driver?

A: Yes, as long as the car is covered by a policy that includes roadside assistance. Some memberships may also allow family members to use the service.

5. Are family members or rental cars covered?

A: This depends on your plan. Some providers include coverage for family members or extend coverage to rental cars, but others do not. Make sure to review your policy details.