Chapter 18

Emergency Roadside Assistance

There are many companies in the United States that offer a "members only" emergency roadside service program. These companies generally have made arrangements with different garages, towing, and repair companies all over the country who can be dispatched to assist you if you breakdown. You might call it a network of automotive service providers. You generally access the network by calling an 800 number and giving an operator a description of the problem and your location. The operator will then contact one of the local service providers in the network and dispatch a repair vehicle (generally a tow truck) to your location.

Some of the vehicle services these companies can provide roadside include jump starts, a gallon or two of gas if you run out, change a flat, minor repairs, and towing. One very well-know company is the Automobile Association of America (AAA), sometimes referred to as triple A. We encourage you to check into the emergency roadside service companies and consider joining one. The fees are generally quite reasonable and if you break down you will be glad there is someone you can call for help.

We suggest carrying an emergency tool kit in your vehicle at all times even if you join an emergency roadside service company, and definitely if you do not. Even if your are not handy, someone else may be able to help if they are provided with some basic tools. A good basic kit should include: flashlight; jumper cables; duct and electrical tape; work gloves; rags or paper towels; rope; fuses; screw drivers (straight blade and phillips); pliers; adjustable wrench; locking pliers; hammer; a small socket set; small wire brush; and wire cutters.

Furthermore, we suggest carrying some emergency roadside items including: empty container approved for carrying gas or water; fire extinguisher; flares; reflectors; and a first aid kit.