Auto Insurance Vs AAA: Why Paying More for AAA Can Save You Money
What you may not know is that insurers keep track of your roadside assistance claims and in some cases, you may find yourself paying a higher premium if your car blows a tire one too many times. While it is unlikely that a one-time jump start will raise your rates, many insurers consider roadside assistance claims as one predictor of risk, which can impact premiums. Remember the money you thought you were saving by using your auto insurance instead of AAA? You can kiss that money good-bye.
In addition, automobile towing claims are reported to a national database run by Atlanta-based ChoicePoint, which provides insurers with claims information on consumers to help insurers process insurance applications. This database is checked each time you apply for a new policy in order to determine whether or not you have been truthful in regards to your application. However, it can be nearly impossible to distinguish a towing claim made for roadside assistance from one made after a motor vehicle accident. This means that flat tire you had that required a tow could make future inquirers think that you were in an accident you did not fully disclose. Interestingly, Choicepoint does not keep a record of towing claims made through companies like AAA.
These reasons alone are reasons to choose AAA over your auto insurance provider, but also keep in mind that AAA offers discounts on hotels, car rentals, and other travel expenses which can quickly add up. Plus, you can be guaranteed that your insurance premiums will not increase, and your records will be kept private. That kind of peace of mind is worth a little extra money to me. Is it worth it to you?
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3 Comments
Post a CommentOkay, I'm gonna echo what Betty and Arthur said. I'm the ultimate bargain hunter, so I signed up for All America Roadside in late September after reading these comments. Just used it over the holiday and was surprised how fast they came - less than 45 minutes on a holiday weekend? unheard of! I'm a lifer! Thanks from Corey.
I'm in my 2nd year now with All America Roadside and their price is still less than a dollar a week. I'm one of the lucky ones who hasn't had to use their service yet, but I still blog around occasionally to see what people are saying about them. So far, I haven't seen any negative comments, which is rare considering how many you see about AAA. Some day I'll probably use them, hopefully not soon, but I don't have a doubt in the world that I'll get the same great service all their other customers seem to get. Love their membership department...people just don't get much nicer than they do.
Hi Heather! Do you work for AAA? Your article is interesting, and I've heard before what you said about a call for roadside help being counted as a claim on your insurance, but why don't you give your readers any other choices besides the high-priced AAA? I've tried Mobil Auto Club (still a little high priced), then AARA (without all the benefits that I had before). Now I have All America Roadside Assistance, and I pay less for the same service. They towed me to a place called Dale's Automotive and a guy named Mike worked on my car. It's never run better. I guess what I'm saying is, it's not only important to select a road service wisely, but it's also important that they tow you somewhere that's not going to rip you off for unnecessary repairs. I got great service and found a mechanic that I'd recommend to anyone, anytime. Oh well, thanks for letting me spout off! Just wondered why you didn't do any homework about other auto clubs before you posted your article.