Imagine you’re driving on a highway and suddenly your car breaks down — a flat tire, a dead battery, or maybe you’ve run out of fuel. In such moments, getting help immediately is crucial. That’s where Roadside Assistance (RSA) in car insurance comes to your rescue.
In this complete guide, we’ll explain what RSA cover means, how it works, its benefits, inclusions, exclusions, and why adding it to your car insurance policy is a smart decision.
What is Roadside Assistance (RSA) in Car Insurance?
Roadside Assistance (RSA) is an add-on cover you can include in your comprehensive car insurance policy. It ensures that if your car breaks down due to a mechanical or electrical issue, your insurer will send professional help to your location — anytime, anywhere.
With RSA, you don’t have to panic or search for a local mechanic when your vehicle stops working unexpectedly. The insurer arranges on-the-spot assistance, towing, or even alternate transport if required.
In simple terms, RSA is your car’s emergency companion, ensuring you’re never stranded alone.
How Does Roadside Assistance Work?
If your car faces a breakdown, you can call your insurer’s 24x7 helpline number or use their mobile app to request help.
Here’s how it typically works:
- You contact your insurance company or RSA service provider.
- Provide your policy number, location, and type of issue (e.g., flat tire, dead battery).
- The insurer dispatches a service professional or tow truck to your location.
- Depending on the problem, they will fix the issue on-site or tow your car to the nearest authorized garage.
With this add-on, you get instant help, peace of mind, and avoid the hassle of managing unexpected roadside troubles yourself.
What Does Roadside Assistance Cover?
The scope of RSA services may vary by insurer, but most policies include the following:
1. Towing Service
If your car can’t be repaired on the spot, the insurer provides free towing to the nearest network garage or service station.
2. Battery Jump-Start or Replacement
If your car’s battery fails, the service team helps you jump-start it or replace it if necessary.
3. Flat Tyre Replacement
RSA includes help with flat tyre repair or replacement using your car’s spare tyre, ensuring you’re back on the road quickly.
4. Fuel Delivery
If you run out of fuel, RSA covers emergency fuel delivery to get you to the nearest fuel station.
5. Minor On-Spot Repairs
For minor mechanical or electrical issues, technicians perform basic repairs at your breakdown location.
6. Lost or Locked Keys
If you’ve locked your keys inside the car or lost them, RSA sends a professional to help you retrieve or replace the key.
7. Alternate Transport or Accommodation
Some insurers offer alternate cab services or hotel stay assistance if your car requires long repairs and you’re far from home.
8. Medical or Emergency Assistance
In serious breakdowns or accidents, some RSA plans also provide medical coordination or ambulance support.
What’s Not Covered Under Roadside Assistance?
Although RSA is a valuable add-on, it doesn’t cover everything. Common exclusions include:
- Repairs at unauthorized garages
- Repeated breakdowns due to poor vehicle maintenance
- Towing from off-road or non-motorable areas
- Damages due to illegal activities or drunk driving
- Replacement cost of parts, fuel, or consumables
- Breakdown caused by floods, riots, or natural disasters (unless included)
Always read the policy terms carefully to understand the exact coverage and limitations.
Cost of Adding Roadside Assistance
The RSA add-on is surprisingly affordable. Most insurers charge between ₹500 to ₹1,000 per year (depending on the vehicle type and insurer).
Considering the value it provides — especially during emergencies — it’s one of the most cost-effective add-ons you can include in your car insurance policy.
Key Benefits of Roadside Assistance Cover
1. 24x7 Emergency Help
Breakdowns don’t have a fixed time or place. RSA ensures you’re never stranded — whether it’s day, night, or a remote highway.
2. Hassle-Free Support
No need to search for help or negotiate repair costs. Your insurer handles it for you.
3. Cost & Time Savings
Minor repairs or towing charges can be expensive, but with RSA, these services are already covered under your policy.
4. Peace of Mind
RSA gives you confidence every time you drive — knowing help is just a call away.
5. Ideal for Long-Distance or Highway Drivers
If you often travel long distances, this add-on is highly recommended to stay protected during unexpected breakdowns.
Why Should You Add RSA to Your Car Insurance?
Many drivers think their comprehensive policy covers everything, but it doesn’t include emergency roadside help by default.
Adding RSA ensures:
Instant support in case of breakdowns or flat tyres
Convenience without searching for local mechanics
Safety assurance during emergencies or remote drives
Whether you drive daily in the city or occasionally on highways, RSA keeps you stress-free and safe.
Pro Tip: Combine RSA with Other Add-ons
To maximize your car’s protection, combine RSA with other useful add-ons like:
- Zero Depreciation Cover
- Engine Protection Cover
- Key Replacement Cover
- Return to Invoice (RTI)
These add-ons together create a complete protection package for your vehicle.
Example Scenario
Without RSA:
Rahul’s car broke down on the Jaipur-Delhi highway due to a flat tyre and a dead battery. He spent over ₹3,000 on local help and lost 3 hours.
With RSA:
If Rahul had RSA cover, he could simply call his insurer. Within 30 minutes, a technician would arrive, fix the issue, and tow his car if needed — all at no extra cost.
That’s the power of having Roadside Assistance Add-on in your insurance plan.
Conclusion
Roadside Assistance (RSA) is not just an add-on; it’s a safety net that every car owner should have. It ensures help is always available, whether you’re stuck on a busy road or a deserted highway.
With minimal extra cost and maximum peace of mind, RSA is one of the smartest and most practical add-ons you can include in your car insurance policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1. What is Roadside Assistance (RSA) in car insurance?
Roadside Assistance (RSA) is an add-on cover in car insurance that provides emergency help if your car breaks down while driving. It includes towing, flat tyre replacement, battery jump-start, fuel delivery, and even on-spot minor repairs, ensuring you never get stranded on the road.
Q.2. What services are covered under the RSA add-on?
Most RSA plans cover essential roadside services like:
- Towing to the nearest garage
- Emergency fuel delivery
- Battery and tyre assistance
- Lost or locked key help
- On-the-spot minor repairs
- Alternate transport or accommodation (in select plans)
Coverage may vary by insurer, so it’s important to check policy terms before purchasing.
Q.3. How do I use the Roadside Assistance cover during a breakdown?
If your vehicle breaks down, call your insurer’s 24x7 RSA helpline or use their mobile app. Provide your policy number, car location, and issue details. The insurer will send professional assistance or arrange towing to the nearest authorized service center.
Q.4. Is the Roadside Assistance cover worth buying?
Yes, the RSA cover is highly recommended — especially for those who travel long distances or frequently drive in remote areas. It offers peace of mind, cost savings, and round-the-clock emergency help at a nominal cost (usually ₹500–₹1,000 annually).
Q.5. Can I add Roadside Assistance to my existing car insurance policy?
Absolutely! You can add RSA while buying a new policy or at the time of renewal of your existing comprehensive car insurance. Simply contact your insurer or visit a trusted comparison platform like SquareInsurance.in to include it in your plan instantly.
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