There are many reasons why every driver should have a roadside assistance plan. No one plans on getting a flat tire or locking their keys in the car, but the unexpected happens when you least expect it to. A roadside assistance plan allows you to get the help you need when you need it. If you are looking to purchase a roadside assistance plan from a company like Parkway Wrecker Service, you typically have two options. Many auto insurance companies offer an add-on plan that you can add on to your auto insurance policy, or you can purchase a separate plan from a company separate from your auto insurance company. Here are a few of the pros and cons of purchasing a roadside assistance plan through your auto insurance company. 

The Cons of Purchasing a Roadside Assistance Plan Through Your Insurance Company

• The Tracking of Your Calls

According to Consumer Reports, car insurance providers can report roadside assistance claims to Choice Point, a tool that is used to rate you as a driver and determine your auto insurance rates. If you have too many claims, you can potentially see your auto insurance rates rise due to roadside assistance calls. 

• Your Car is Covered, Not the Driver

Another negative is that when you purchase a roadside assistance plan through your insurance company, your car is covered by the plan, not you. This means that you cannot call your roadside assistance company if you're in the car with a friend and they need help. On the flip side, if you purchase a plan not through your insurance company, you are usually covered, not the vehicle, allowing you to use the policy in any car you are riding in. 

The Pros of Purchasing a Roadside Assistance Plan Through Your Insurance Company

• Buying a Plan is Typically Cheaper

One of the major benefits to purchasing a roadside assistance plan through your insurance company is the cost. Most insurance companies allow you to add a roadside assistance plan to your auto insurance policy for just a few dollars a month. This is usually cheaper than buying a separate plan from a different entity. 

• You Get the Same Benefits Through Your Insurance Company As You Do Through Separate Plans

The other advantage to buying a roadside assistance plan through your insurance company is that you typically get the same benefits with the insurance company's plan as you do through separate policies. Most cover the same things, including changing your tire, car lockout services, bringing you gas if you run out on the side of the road, jump starting your car, and towing you a short distance. 

There are pros and cons to buying a roadside assistance plan through your insurance company or through a separate entity. Take the time to learn about these pros and cons to help you decide which is the better option for your needs.