Why You’re Better Off With AAA Plus Instead of Using Your Auto Insurance for Towing
When your vehicle breaks down, your first instinct may be to call your auto insurance provider for roadside assistance. While that seems logical, doing so can unintentionally raise your premiums and affect your long-term insurability—especially in states like Connecticut where insurers are tightening underwriting requirements.
That’s why AAA Plus (or similar standalone roadside assistance programs) is often the smarter choice for towing, lockouts, and minor emergencies. At Page Insurance, we regularly help clients protect their insurance record by avoiding unnecessary roadside claims.
1. Towing Claims Count as Insurance Claims—Even Small Ones
Most drivers believe that roadside assistance claims are harmless. Unfortunately, many insurance carriers treat towing claims the same way they treat any other claim.
That means each towing request may:
- Appear as a loss on your policy history
- Increase the frequency of claims on your record
- Trigger premium surcharges
- Reduce or eliminate claim-free discounts
- Affect eligibility with preferred CT carriers
In other words, a simple $150 tow could quietly cost you hundreds more at renewal.
2. AAA Plus Covers You — Not Just Your Vehicle
Most auto insurance roadside programs only apply to the vehicle listed on your policy.
AAA Plus is different. It covers you, regardless of whose vehicle you are in:
- Driving your own car
- Driving a friend’s car
- Riding as a passenger
- Borrowing a family member’s SUV
- Traveling out of state
This flexibility is particularly useful for multi-driver households or Connecticut families with multiple vehicles.
3. AAA Plus Offers Longer Towing Distances (100 Miles)
A big advantage of AAA Plus is the 100-mile towing radius—no questions asked.
Compare that with typical auto insurance roadside assistance:
| Feature | AAA Plus | Auto Insurance Roadside |
|---|---|---|
| Towing distance | Up to 100 miles | Usually to nearest repair shop |
| Coverage applies to | The member | The insured vehicle |
| Affects insurance record? | No | Yes |
| Fuel delivery | Often included | Sometimes additional fee |
| Flexibility | High | Limited |
If your trusted mechanic is 40–60 miles away, AAA Plus can easily save you $200–$400 in a single tow.
4. Why CT Insurers Are Becoming Stricter About Roadside Claims
Connecticut carriers—like many nationwide insurers—are carefully tracking claim frequency. Even minor claims such as battery jumps or tows can impact:
- Renewal pricing
- Preferred-tier eligibility
- Your overall loss ratio
- Discount qualification
With AAA Plus handling the small stuff, your CT auto insurance policy stays clean and ready for the claims that actually matter.
5. AAA Plus Includes Extras That Insurance Companies Do Not
Auto insurance roadside programs tend to be extremely limited. AAA Plus offers a more complete package, including:
- Free fuel delivery
- Emergency battery testing
- Jump-starts
- Lockout services
- Tire changes
- Discounts on hotels, travel, and attractions
- Bicycle roadside assistance
These benefits quickly add value—especially for active CT families or commuters.
6. Preserve Your Insurance for Major, Unexpected Events
Your auto insurance is there to protect you from:
- Accidents
- Liability exposure
- Storm damage
- Animal collisions
- Theft
- Major mechanical damage (if you carry applicable coverage)
Using your policy for a minor tow is like using your homeowner’s insurance to replace a lost key—not wise.
AAA Plus absorbs small, predictable situations so your insurance remains free for major, unpredictable ones.
7. Who Should Consider AAA Plus?
AAA Plus is ideal for:
- Connecticut commuters
- Drivers with long distances to preferred mechanics
- Anyone wanting to avoid insurance surcharges
- Households with teen drivers
- Motorcyclists, RV owners, and boat haulers
- People who travel frequently
It’s particularly beneficial if you also own motorcycles or RVs. (Also see: Motorcycle Insurance in CT and RV Insurance in CT.)
8. Real Savings Example for CT Drivers
CT auto premiums are already among the highest in New England. One $100 towing claim can:
- Remove your Claim-Free Discount
- Increase your premium 10–20% at renewal
- Affect future carrier eligibility
AAA Plus prevents these penalties entirely.
9. Internal Links for Better User Navigation
For readers wanting help reviewing their policy, here are helpful Page Insurance resources:
Conclusion: AAA Plus Protects Your Wallet and Your Insurance Record
AAA Plus often pays for itself after just one long-distance tow, and more importantly, it keeps unnecessary claims off your auto insurance record. That means lower premiums, cleaner history, and fewer headaches.
If you’re unsure whether your current auto policy includes roadside assistance—or whether you should switch to AAA Plus—Page Insurance can help.
Have questions? Get guidance here:
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