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Good Sam
“Just how providers define roadside assistance can vary, and you need to know exactly what to expect when it comes to your safety and coverage in a breakdown.”
Getting stranded on the road is never part of the plan – but it happens. Mishaps like a dead battery on the highway, a flat tire at night, or keys locked inside your RV can turn any journey into a stressful situation. That’s where roadside assistance comes in, with coverage designed to get you back on the road – whether you’re driving a car, truck, or RV.
For frequent travelers and RV owners, roadside coverage isn’t just helpful but absolutely essential. Breakdowns never come at a convenient time, and having support available at your disposal can save time, money, and unnecessary stress.
You can get roadside assistance coverage through auto clubs, insurance providers, or even vehicle manufacturers, each with its own coverage options and service levels.
Roadside assistance coverage varies by provider. Some offer comprehensive plans with unlimited towing (to the nearest service facility), while others stick to basic services. Here’s a quick overview of common roadside assistance services to help you choose the right plan for your needs.
Towing is one of the most frequently used benefits, accounting for about 40% of all roadside assistance requests in the USA. Most providers will tow your vehicle to the nearest service facility; however, some may put a cap on towing distance or charge extra for additional miles. Be sure to check the terms of your plan to avoid any surprise bills.
If your battery dies, a technician can help jump start your vehicle. Some roadside assistance providers also offer a mobile battery replacement if a jump start doesn’t work, though the battery cost is extra. Other providers may tow your vehicle to a nearby service center if a jump start isn’t possible.
Check your plan for:
Roadside assistance typically includes replacing a flat tire with your vehicle’s spare. Most standard plans cover passenger vehicles, but premium coverage may be necessary for RVs, motorcycles, or trailers.
If you don’t have a spare, the provider may tow you to the nearest tire shop, which becomes the primary concern for RV or trailer owners. When available, Good Sam also offers a tire delivery option for RVs, where a replacement tire can be brought to your location. However, only the service call is included in the plan. The cost of the tire, parts, and labor is charged separately.
If your vehicle runs out of gas in the middle of nowhere, a technician can deliver up to 5 gallons of gas or diesel, enough fuel to get you to the next gas station. Check your plan for:
Be sure to specify the fuel type when requesting the service.
If you accidentally lock your keys in the car or RV, roadside assistance includes help with manual, electronic, or keyless entry systems.
Keep in mind:
If you are stuck in snow, mud, sand, or a ditch (typically within 100 feet of a maintained road), winching services can help pull it out. This is especially valuable for RVs and off-road vehicles.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that:
Be sure to choose a plan with less restrictive winching limits if you often find yourself exploring rough terrain.
Comparing services like these can help you pick the right roadside assistance plan that matches your needs. Frequent RVers and long-distance travelers may prefer plans with extended towing and specialized support. On the other hand, everyday drivers may prefer cost-effective options with core services.
While roadside assistance plans offer valuable support, many come with limitations that could leave you paying out of pocket for common issues. That’s why it’s important to understand what’s typically not included – and how providers like Good Sam Roadside Assistance help bridge these gaps.
Here’s what most standard plans don’t cover:
However, Good Sam’s roadside assistance plans go further and:
Explore Good Sam’s roadside assistance plans to find the right coverage for your travel needs.
Many roadside assistance providers offer optional add-ons or upgraded plans for drivers who want broader protection and more travel flexibility. These upgrades can be especially helpful for RVers, frequent road-trippers, or drivers with specialty vehicles.
Here are some common upgrade features to look for in roadside assistance coverage:
These add-ons can offer peace of mind, especially for long-distance travelers or anyone driving specialized or recreational vehicles.
Good Sam’s roadside assistance plans are designed to support drivers, RV owners, and travelers across North America. Whether you’re navigating local roads or exploring the open highway, our plans offer dependable coverage designed for flexibility and peace of mind.
Good Sam offers separate plan tiers tailored for both auto (Platinum Auto, Platinum+ Auto, and Platinum Complete Auto) and RV (Standard, Platinum, Platinum Complete, and Platinum+) drivers.
Basic plans include core services like:
Premium plans offer more protection, such as:
These upgrades are ideal for frequent travelers, RV owners, or families needing coverage across multiple vehicles.
Good Sam offers annual membership plans only (no pay-per-use plans) to ensure consistent coverage.
For new members,
Each plan covers a wide range of services, offering strong value for regular drivers and RV road-trippers alike.
When choosing a roadside assistance plan, it’s important to understand how different roadside assistance options stack up.
With coverage that extends across vehicles, family members, and even borders, Good Sam’s third-party plans offer the kind of flexibility and reliability drivers truly need.
Whether you’re navigating daily commutes or exploring off-the-grid in your RV, having the right roadside assistance coverage can make all the difference. From basic coverage to premium protection, when you know what’s covered – and what’s not – you can find the perfect plan to stay prepared for the unexpected and ensure you’re never left stranded.
1. How often can I use roadside assistance?
A: Most plans allow multiple service calls per year, typically ranging from 4 to 6 uses, depending on the provider. Be sure to choose a plan that matches how frequently you travel. Good Sam doesn’t list a specific limit, but they may review your account if they notice unusually high usage.
2. Does roadside assistance cost extra?
A: Some auto insurance policies or warranties may offer basic roadside assistance coverage at no extra cost. However, standalone plans that offer better coverage usually charge a monthly or annual fee.
3. Can I use roadside assistance on another car?
A: It depends on the plan. Driver-based plans follow the person, letting you use the service no matter what vehicle you’re in. Vehicle-based plans only cover the registered car, RV, or truck.
4. Does it cover my spouse/teen driver?
A: Most plans cover household members, including spouse or teen driver, if they are driving a covered vehicle. If your plan is driver-based, be sure to add them as additional drivers at the time of enrollment.
5. Can I use my breakdown cover for someone else?
A: Driver-based plans let you use the service no matter whose vehicle you’re in. However, if the plan is vehicle-specific, coverage only applies to the registered vehicle, regardless of the driver.