Who To Call When You Have A Flat Tire For Free

If you have a flat tire and need free assistance, who you should call depends on the coverage or services already available to you. Start by checking whether your auto insurance policy includes roadside assistance. Many insurers provide towing or tire-change services as an optional benefit. If your vehicle is newer, the manufacturer may include roadside assistance during the warranty period. Some credit cards, vehicle memberships, mobile-phone plans or dealership packages may also include roadside benefits, although charges can still apply depending on the terms. If you are on a motorway or in an unsafe location, move the vehicle as far away from traffic as safely possible, switch on the hazard lights and avoid attempting a tire change where passing traffic puts you at risk. Emergency services should generally be reserved for situations involving immediate danger rather than routine roadside assistance. Before requesting service, confirm whether the call-out and tire change are actually covered, as “roadside assistance” is not always completely free.