Allstate Roadside Assistance vs Aaa: Which Is Best?
Stuck on the side of the road? It’s a stressful situation, but thankfully, roadside assistance services are available to help. Choosing the right plan can make all the difference, so let’s dive into a comparison to help you find the best fit for your needs.
We’re putting two industry giants head-to-head: Allstate Roadside Assistance and AAA. Both offer comprehensive services, but their coverage, pricing, and additional perks vary significantly. Understanding these differences is key to making an informed decision.
This comparison will explore the strengths and weaknesses of each service, helping you determine whether Allstate Roadside Assistance or AAA is the better choice for your peace of mind on the road. We’ll examine everything from towing and battery jump starts to fuel delivery and more. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Allstate Roadside Assistance | AAA |
|---|---|---|
| Towing | Yes | Yes |
| Jump Start | Yes | Yes |
| Flat Tire Service | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Delivery | Yes | Yes |
| Lockout Service | Yes | Yes |
| Trip Interruption Coverage | Yes, some plans | Yes, some plans |
| Coverage Area | United States | United States |
| 24/7 Availability | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Membership Options | Varies based on insurance plan | Multiple tiers |
| Service Guarantee | Varies | Varies |
| Discounts | Varies based on insurance plan | Discounts on travel and other services |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Coverage Area
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: Offers coverage throughout the United States and Canada. Coverage details and availability may vary based on the specific policy and location. Pros include broad availability; cons might include potential limitations in remote areas.
- Aaa: Provides extensive coverage across the United States and parts of Canada. Offers varying levels of membership with corresponding coverage areas and benefits. Pros include widespread presence and familiarity; cons might be membership-based costs.
- Winner: AAA
Service Types
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: Includes services such as towing, jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout service. Coverage specifics and limitations depend on the policy. Pros offer a broad range of common roadside needs; cons might have coverage limits.
- Aaa: Offers a comprehensive array of services, including towing, battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, lockout service, and sometimes even extrication. The exact services depend on the membership level. Pros include a wide variety of services; cons might be tiered service levels.
- Winner: AAA
Membership/Policy Cost
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: Typically offered as an add-on to an existing Allstate auto insurance policy, with the cost varying depending on the policy and coverage level. Pros include the convenience of bundling; cons are potentially limited coverage if you don’t have Allstate insurance.
- Aaa: Requires a separate membership with annual fees that vary depending on the membership level (e.g., Basic, Plus, Premier). Pros include predictable costs and a range of levels; cons are the added cost and annual renewal.
- Winner: Tie
Towing Distance
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: Towing distances vary based on the specific Allstate policy. It’s crucial to check the policy details for maximum towing mileage. Pros: flexibility in coverage; cons: less standardization.
- Aaa: Offers varying towing distances based on the membership level, with higher tiers providing longer towing distances. Basic memberships have shorter distances. Pros: tiered options meet different needs; cons: costs increase for longer distances.
- Winner: AAA
Waiting Time for Service
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: Response times can vary depending on the location and service provider availability. Allstate aims to provide prompt service, but delays can happen. Pros: readily available service; cons: potential delays in some areas.
- Aaa: Known for generally quick response times, with average wait times often published. Response times can vary based on location and provider availability. Pros: Generally reliable service; cons: still subject to external factors.
- Winner: AAA
Discounts & Perks
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: May offer discounts on car rentals, hotels, or other services, depending on the policy. These perks can vary. Pros: potential for additional savings; cons: the number of perks may vary.
- Aaa: Provides a wide range of discounts on hotels, car rentals, travel, and other services through its Show Your Card & Save program. Pros: a variety of discounts; cons: not all discounts will apply to everyone.
- Winner: AAA
Mobile App & Technology
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: May offer a mobile app for requesting service and tracking the arrival of assistance. App features can vary. Pros: convenient service requests; cons: app features may be limited.
- Aaa: Offers a mobile app with features such as service requests, location tracking, and access to discounts. The app is generally well-regarded. Pros: user-friendly and feature-rich; cons: some users may find the app interface difficult.
- Winner: AAA
Customer Service & Reputation
- Allstate Roadside Assistance: Allstate’s customer service reputation varies. The quality of service can depend on the specific provider. Pros: readily available customer service; cons: service can vary.
- Aaa: Generally has a strong reputation for customer service and reliability, with positive reviews in many areas. AAA’s local club structure can affect customer experiences. Pros: consistent and reliable service; cons: might vary by region.
- Winner: AAA
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Coverage Options | AAA |
| Travel Discounts | AAA |
| Integration with Existing Services | Allstate Roadside Assistance |
| Value | Tie |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- 24/7 Availability: Both Allstate Roadside Assistance and AAA offer roadside assistance services around the clock, ensuring help is available whenever you need it. This provides peace of mind in case of emergencies.
- Towing Services: Both providers include towing services in their roadside assistance packages, helping you get your vehicle to a repair shop when necessary. This is a crucial service in case of a breakdown.
- Jump Start Service: Both Allstate and AAA offer jump start services, which can be a lifesaver if your car battery dies. They will come to your location and provide the necessary boost to get you back on the road.
- Flat Tire Assistance: Both services include assistance with flat tires, either by changing the tire or arranging for a tow to a tire shop. This is a common roadside issue and both providers offer a solution.
- Fuel Delivery: Both Allstate and AAA will deliver fuel if you run out, ensuring you can get to a gas station. This service can prevent you from being stranded on the side of the road.
- Lockout Service: Both providers offer lockout services, helping you gain access to your vehicle if you lock your keys inside. This can save you a lot of time and frustration.
Allstate Roadside Assistance Vs AAA Buying Guide
Coverage Options
Both Allstate and AAA offer comprehensive roadside assistance coverage, but the specifics vary. Allstate provides various plans, often bundled with existing insurance policies, covering towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout services. AAA offers different membership tiers, each with increasing benefits such as higher towing mileage limits, broader coverage areas, and additional travel perks. Consider your typical driving habits and the types of emergencies you anticipate when evaluating coverage options. Assess whether you need basic services or more extensive protection, including travel discounts and trip interruption coverage.
Cost and Pricing
The cost of roadside assistance depends on the provider and the chosen plan. Allstate’s pricing is often integrated with auto insurance premiums, potentially offering discounts for bundling. AAA’s membership fees vary based on the tier selected, with higher-level memberships costing more. Research the specific costs associated with each plan, including any initiation fees or hidden charges. Factor in the value of included benefits, such as the number of free tows per year, when comparing the overall cost-effectiveness of each service. Remember, cheaper isn’t always better; assess the value you receive.
Service Availability and Response Times
Service availability and response times are crucial during emergencies. Allstate relies on a network of service providers, and response times can vary depending on location and demand. AAA operates its own fleet of service vehicles in certain areas, potentially leading to faster response times, especially in densely populated regions. Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability of each provider’s service in your area. Consider how quickly you need assistance and choose a provider known for its prompt and efficient service, particularly if you frequently travel.
Additional Benefits and Perks
Beyond basic roadside assistance, consider additional benefits. AAA offers a wide range of perks, including travel discounts, hotel and car rental deals, and access to travel planning services. Allstate might offer discounts on car repairs or other insurance-related products. Evaluate whether these extra benefits align with your lifestyle and needs. If you travel frequently, AAA’s travel-related perks could provide significant value. If you’re primarily concerned with vehicle-related issues, Allstate’s bundled discounts might be more appealing. Weigh the value of these added features.
Ease of Use and Customer Service
The ease of using roadside assistance services is an important factor. Both Allstate and AAA offer mobile apps and online portals for requesting assistance. Consider the user-friendliness of these tools. Evaluate customer service experiences by reading reviews and testimonials. Look for providers with responsive customer service representatives who can quickly address your needs. Consider how easily you can contact the service provider in an emergency and how quickly they resolve the issue. Good customer service can make a stressful situation easier to manage.
Limitations and Exclusions
Both Allstate and AAA have limitations and exclusions in their coverage. These might include restrictions on the types of vehicles covered, the location of service, or the circumstances of the breakdown. Review the fine print of each policy carefully to understand any limitations. For example, some plans might not cover off-road recoveries or breakdowns caused by racing. Be aware of any mileage restrictions on towing. Understanding the limitations beforehand helps you avoid surprises during an emergency. Ensure the plan meets your specific needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Allstate Roadside Assistance If…
- You are already an Allstate insurance customer and want to bundle services.
- You prefer the convenience of having roadside assistance integrated with your insurance.
- You value the potential for discounts on other Allstate products.
- You prioritize having roadside assistance included as part of your existing insurance coverage.
Buy AAA If…
- You want access to a wide range of travel and other discounts.
- You want to choose from different membership tiers with varying levels of service.
- You want a well-established and trusted roadside assistance provider.
- You frequently travel and want additional travel-related benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services are typically included in roadside assistance plans?
Roadside assistance plans typically cover towing, tire changes, fuel delivery, battery jump starts, and lockout services. Towing usually includes a certain mileage limit, with additional charges for exceeding that distance. Fuel delivery provides a small amount of gasoline if you run out, and battery jump starts can get your car running again. Lockout service helps you regain access to your vehicle if you’ve locked your keys inside, and tire changes assist with flat tires.
How does Allstate’s roadside assistance compare to AAA’s in terms of coverage?
Allstate’s roadside assistance is often bundled with auto insurance, providing basic coverage for common issues. AAA offers tiered membership plans, each with increasing coverage levels. AAA typically includes higher towing mileage limits, and more travel-related benefits such as trip interruption coverage. While Allstate offers essential services, AAA provides a more comprehensive package, especially for frequent travelers or those needing more extensive support.
What factors should I consider when choosing between Allstate and AAA?
Consider your needs, driving habits, and budget. Evaluate coverage options, costs, service availability, and response times. Assess the value of additional benefits, such as travel discounts. Read customer reviews to gauge the quality of service and customer satisfaction. Compare the limitations and exclusions of each plan to ensure it meets your specific needs. Ultimately, select the plan that offers the best value and protection for your situation.
How do I request roadside assistance from Allstate or AAA?
Both providers offer convenient ways to request assistance. Allstate customers can typically call a dedicated phone number or use a mobile app to report an incident. AAA members can also call a phone number or use their mobile app. Both services will ask for your location and the nature of the problem. They will then dispatch a service provider to your location. Make sure you have your membership or policy information ready.
Are there any restrictions on the types of vehicles covered by roadside assistance?
Yes, restrictions can vary. Both Allstate and AAA typically cover standard passenger vehicles. However, they may have limitations on motorcycles, RVs, and commercial vehicles. Some plans may offer coverage for these vehicles, but often at a higher cost or with specific restrictions. Always review the policy details to confirm which vehicles are covered. Ensure your vehicle type is included in the plan before purchasing.
How long does it typically take for roadside assistance to arrive?
Response times vary depending on location, time of day, and the availability of service providers. However, most providers strive to arrive within a reasonable timeframe, often within an hour. Factors such as traffic and weather can impact arrival times. Both Allstate and AAA aim to provide efficient service. Check customer reviews for information about average response times in your area. Be prepared for potential delays.
Can I use roadside assistance if I’m not the policyholder or member?
This depends on the specific plan. Some plans, like AAA, extend coverage to the member and the vehicles they are driving, regardless of ownership, under certain circumstances. Allstate’s roadside assistance typically covers the insured vehicle, regardless of who is driving it. Review the policy details to understand who is covered. It’s important to know the rules before you need help. Always have the policy information handy.
Final Verdict
Both Allstate and AAA offer valuable roadside assistance services. AAA’s tiered membership provides more extensive benefits, including higher towing limits and travel perks. Allstate, often bundled with insurance, offers basic coverage at a potentially lower cost. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. For comprehensive coverage and travel benefits, AAA is recommended. For more basic needs, and budget-friendly options, Allstate is a suitable choice.
Winner: AAA