Roadside Assistance (RSA) Cover in Motor Insurance: Meaning, Benefits, Cost & Services Explained
No matter how well-maintained your vehicle is, breakdowns can happen anytime—especially during long drives, highway journeys, or late-night travel. A flat tyre, dead battery, mechanical failure, or fuel shortage can leave you stranded.
To handle such emergencies, motor insurers offer an extremely useful add-on called Roadside Assistance (RSA) Cover.
Roadside Assistance provides on-spot support in case of vehicle breakdown, ensuring immediate help without additional charges.
What Is Roadside Assistance (RSA) Cover?
Roadside Assistance is an add-on cover offered with comprehensive or standalone own-damage motor insurance. It offers emergency support such as:
- towing services
- flat tyre replacement
- jump-starting battery
- fuel delivery
- mechanic on call
- arranging alternate transport
- accommodation (in selected plans)
Services Covered Under RSA
- 24x7 emergency helpline
- mechanical & electrical repair
- tyre puncture/stepney replacement
- towing after breakdown/accident
- battery jump start
- fuel delivery (limited litres)
- lost key assistance
- taxi arrangement
- hotel stay in case of long distance breakdown
Benefits of Roadside Assistance
- 24x7 mechanical support
- Eliminates emergency costs
- Helps during long drives & road trips
- Ensures quick assistance in remote areas
- Ideal for new/inexperienced drivers
- Peace of mind during breakdowns
- Protects against towing charges
What Is NOT Covered Under RSA?
- cost of spare parts
- repair in unauthorized garages
- mechanical failure due to neglect
- fuel cost beyond free limit
- breakdown outside geographical limits
Cost of RSA Cover
| Vehicle Category | Approx Premium / Year |
|---|---|
| Hatchback | ₹200 – ₹500 |
| Sedan | ₹300 – ₹800 |
| SUV | ₹400 – ₹1,200 |
| Luxury Cars | ₹800 – ₹3,000 |
Who Should Buy RSA?
- new car owners
- frequent travellers
- highway/long-distance drivers
- people living in remote areas
- senior citizens
- luxury car owners
- beginner drivers
Claim / Assistance Process
- Call insurer helpline or RSA number
- Share breakdown location
- Mechanic/towing dispatched
- Service provided on-spot or at garage
- No cash payment required for covered services
Example Scenario
Your car battery dies at 11 PM. Without RSA → you must call a mechanic & pay for jump start. With RSA → insurer sends mechanic, service is cashless.
Is Roadside Assistance Worth It?
Yes. For a small premium, RSA cover ensures support during breakdowns and avoids costly emergency towing and mechanic charges. It is one of the most value-for-money add-ons.
Conclusion
Roadside Assistance is a must-have add-on for those who travel frequently or want a safety net during unexpected breakdowns. It is affordable, practical, and ensures peace of mind on every journey.
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