If you’ve ever needed a tow service, you know that it is always a huge hassle. But what if you could pay a small annual fee and never have to worry about finding a tow service again? You’d think that motorclubs would be the way to go, right? Well, maybe not. Let’s take a look at the differences between motorclubs and direct tow services.
What Are Motorclubs?
Motorclubs are organizations which offer roadside assistance in exchange for an annual membership fee. Many of these organizations also offer other services such as legal consultation and travel discounts. In terms of tow service, they usually connect their members with local tow companies who provide discounted rates for their members. They often contract with the companies that accept lower rates in exchange for call volume. The biggest problem with this is the amount of time it takes for the club to find a provider willing to tow in exchange for the low rate. Oftentimes larger more professional companies are busy with cash call customers thus making you the member wait hours and sometimes days for a simple tow.
The Pros & Cons of Motorclubs
On the plus side, motorclub memberships are relatively inexpensive; most charge around $50-100 per year for unlimited roadside assistance, including towing services when needed. However, the downside of motorclubs is that they can be slower than calling your own tow truck directly because they need to connect you with an available tow service in your area—sometimes this process can take up to 60 minutes or more! Additionally, some motor clubs don’t always provide high-quality service; since they partner with local tow services, there is no guarantee that the company they connect you with will be highly rated or experienced in providing emergency tow services.
Why Call a local Company Directly and bill your insurance?
Most insurance companies provide roadside assistance coverage as part of their policies; most of the time you can choose your own service provider by calling the tow service directly and having your insurance company reimburse you. The best part about this option is you are able to choose a service provider in your area that you know provides quality services and won’t damage your vehicle. Plus, it saves time since the process is much simpler than having to go through a motor club first.
Motorclubs and direct tow services both have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to finding emergency roadside assistance. While motor clubs offer discounted rates in exchange for an annual fee, calling a company directly often results in faster and better service—plus reimbursement for any costs associated with the callout! So next time you find yourself stranded on the side of the road hoping for some help from above (or below), consider skipping the middleman and just call your local tow company instead!
