good sam roadside assistance review
As an independent insurance agent with Blake Insurance Group, I’ve seen my fair share of roadside mishaps and stranded drivers. That’s why I always stress the importance of reliable roadside assistance to my clients. Today, I want to explore Good Sam’s roadside assistance program—a service that’s caught the attention of many, especially those who love to hit the open road in their RVs.
Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with clients about their experiences with Good Sam, and I’ve done my homework to understand the ins and outs of their offerings. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RV enthusiast, choosing the proper roadside assistance can make or break your travel plans.
In this review, I’ll break down what Good Sam offers, from coverage options to real customer experiences. My goal isn’t to sell you on Good Sam but to give you an honest, agent-eye view of their service. So, let’s pop the hood and take a closer look at what Good Sam roadside assistance is all about and whether it might be the right fit for you.
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Customer Reviews
What sets Good Sam apart is their comprehensive coverage for a wide range of vehicles. While they’re best known for their RV assistance, they don’t stop there. Their plans cover almost everything on wheels – from your everyday cars and SUVs to motorcycles, travel trailers, and even boat trailers.
One of the standout features that my clients appreciate is Good Sam’s unlimited distance towing to the nearest service center. This can be a real lifesaver when you’re far from home and encounter trouble. They also offer some nice perks like trip interruption assistance, which can reimburse you for expenses if your vehicle breaks down more than 100 miles from home.
For RV owners, Good Sam’s offers specialized services that standard auto clubs often don’t. They have RV-specific technicians and can even deliver RV tires if you get a flat and don’t have a spare. This kind of tailored service is why many of my RV-owning clients choose Good Sam over other providers.
It’s worth noting that Good Sam offers different tiers of coverage, from its Standard plan to its Platinum Complete option. Each level adds more benefits, so I recommend clients carefully consider their travel habits and needs when choosing a plan.
Key Features of Good Sam Roadside Assistance
Regarding roadside assistance, Good Sam stands out with a robust set of features designed to provide peace of mind and convenience, especially for those who travel frequently or own recreational vehicles (RVs). Let’s take a closer look at the primary features that make Good Sam Roadside Assistance a preferred choice for many drivers:
24/7 Service
One of the most significant advantages of Good Sam Roadside Assistance is its commitment to being available around the clock. Whether it’s late at night or early in the morning, you can rely on their 24/7 service to come to your aid. This constant availability is crucial for those who might find themselves stranded in unfamiliar locations or facing unexpected car trouble at inconvenient times.
Nationwide Coverage
Good Sam offers nationwide coverage, ensuring you’re protected no matter where your travels take you within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This expansive coverage is particularly beneficial for RV owners and road-trippers who frequently travel long distances. Knowing that help is just a phone call away, no matter where you are, can provide significant peace of mind.
Unlimited Towing Distance
One of the standout features of Good Sam Roadside Assistance is the unlimited towing distance to the nearest service center. Unlike other programs that limit towing to a certain number of miles, Good Sam ensures that your vehicle will be towed to the closest professional service center, regardless of the distance. This feature can save members considerable money and hassle, especially in rural or remote areas where service centers might be far apart.
Tire Changes
Flat tires are one of the most common roadside emergencies, and Good Sam is well-equipped to handle them. The service includes tire changes for cars, trucks, and even RVs. Whether you have a spare tire or need to be towed to a nearby tire shop, Good Sam’s assistance ensures you won’t be stranded on the roadside.
Battery Jump-Starts
Dead batteries can happen to anyone, and Good Sam Roadside Assistance offers quick and reliable jump-start services to get you back on the road. This feature is essential during colder months or if you accidentally leave your lights on. A quick call to Good Sam will dispatch a professional to jump-start your vehicle, minimizing downtime and inconvenience.
Fuel Delivery
Running out of gas is an inconvenience that can be quickly resolved with Good Sam’s fuel delivery service. Good Sam will deliver enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station if you find yourself with an empty tank. This service benefits long-distance travelers who may misjudge the distance between gas stations or those traveling in areas with limited fuel options.
Locksmith Services
Locking yourself out of your vehicle can be stressful, but Good Sam’s locksmith services provide a quick solution. If you accidentally lock your keys in your car, Good Sam will send a locksmith to help you gain access. This feature is available for standard vehicles and RVs, ensuring all members are covered in such situations.
Additional Benefits
Aside from these primary features, Good Sam Roadside Assistance often includes other benefits like discounts on car rentals, travel planning resources, and special offers on camping and travel products. These additional perks make Good Sam’s, not just a roadside assistance provider but a valuable partner for your overall travel experience.
Membership Plans and Pricing
Standard Plan
The Standard Plan is Good Sam’s most basic and affordable roadside assistance option. It’s designed to provide essential roadside support for everyday drivers, whether you’re commuting to work or taking a road trip. Here’s what the Standard Plan includes:
– **24/7 Roadside Assistance:** Access to emergency roadside services anytime, anywhere.
– **Towing Service:** Unlimited towing to the nearest service center is a significant advantage over many competitors that limit towing distances.
– **Flat Tire Changes:** Assistance with flat tires, including RVs, can be a lifesaver on the road.
– **Battery Jump-Starts:** Quick help with dead batteries to get you back on the road.
– **Fuel Delivery:** Fuel delivery to the nearest gas station.
– **Locksmith Services:** Assistance if you lock your keys in your vehicle.
**Pricing:** The Standard Plan is typically priced lower than the other two options, making it a cost-effective choice for those who need basic coverage. The exact cost may vary, but it generally ranges around $60 to $80 annually, depending on promotions and specific coverage options.
Platinum Plan
The Platinum Plan builds on the features of the Standard Plan by offering enhanced benefits and services, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers or those who want more comprehensive coverage. Key features of the Platinum Plan include:
– **Everything in the Standard Plan:** All the benefits of the Standard Plan are included.
– **Increased Towing Benefits:** While the Standard Plan offers unlimited towing to the nearest service center, the Platinum Plan may provide additional towing options or coverages.
– **Higher Coverage Limits:** The Platinum Plan often includes higher limits for service calls and additional services.
– **RV and Trailer Assistance:** This plan is ideal for those who own RVs or travel trailers, providing extended services tailored to larger vehicles, such as flat tire assistance and specialized towing.
**Pricing:** The Platinum Plan is moderately priced, usually between $80 and $120 annually. The cost reflects the added value of extended coverage and services, making it a popular choice for those who travel extensively or own larger vehicles.
Platinum Complete Plan
The Platinum Complete Plan is the most comprehensive offering from Good Sam Roadside Assistance. It’s designed for those who want the highest level of protection and peace of mind on the road. This plan includes:
– **All Benefits of the Platinum Plan:** Full access to the features of the Platinum Plan.
– **Enhanced Coverage:** Additional services and higher coverage limits provide the most extensive roadside assistance available.
– **Trip Interruption Coverage:** Financial assistance for lodging and meals if your vehicle breakdown occurs far from home.
– **Emergency Medical Referral Service:** Guidance and assistance in finding medical care during roadside emergencies.
– **Spouse and Family Coverage:** Options to include coverage for your spouse and dependent children, ensuring that the whole family is protected.
**Pricing:** The Platinum Complete Plan is the premium offering, typically between $120 and $150 per year. The higher cost reflects the extensive coverage and added peace of mind, making it an excellent investment for families, RV owners, and those who spend significant time on the road.
Which Plan is Best for You?
Choosing the right Good Sam Roadside Assistance plan depends on your specific needs and driving habits:
– **Standard Plan:** This plan is Ideal for those who want essential roadside assistance coverage at an affordable price. It is great for daily commuters and occasional travelers.
– **Platinum Plan:** This plan is Perfect for frequent travelers and RV owners who need more comprehensive coverage, especially those who often find themselves in remote areas.
– **Platinum Complete Plan:** This plan is Best for families, dedicated RV enthusiasts, and anyone seeking the highest protection and peace of mind.
Good Sam Roadside Assistance Plans Comparison
| Feature | Standard Plan | Platinum Plan | Platinum Complete Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Roadside Assistance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Towing Service | Unlimited to nearest service center | Unlimited to nearest service center | Unlimited to nearest service center |
| Flat Tire Changes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Jump-Starts | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Delivery | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Locksmith Services | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Higher Coverage Limits | No | Yes | Yes |
| RV and Trailer Assistance | Basic | Enhanced | Enhanced |
| Trip Interruption Coverage | No | No | Yes |
| Emergency Medical Referral | No | No | Yes |
| Spouse and Family Coverage | Optional Add-on | Optional Add-on | Yes |
| Pricing (Approximate) | $60 - $80 per year | $80 - $120 per year | $120 - $150 per year |
Comparison with Other Roadside Assistance Providers
Good Sam
Good Sam is mainly known for its comprehensive coverage of RVs, making it a top choice for RV owners. Key features include:
– **Unlimited Towing**: Good Sam offers unlimited towing to the nearest service center, which is especially beneficial for long-distance travelers.
– **RV-Specific Services**: They provide specialized services for RVs, such as mobile mechanics and RV tire delivery.
– **Trip Interruption Assistance**: Good Sam offers reimbursement for expenses like meals, lodging, and car rental if your vehicle is disabled more than 100 miles from home and cannot be driven or towed for more than 24 hours.
AAA
AAA is one of the most well-known roadside assistance providers, offering a range of services:
– **Towing**: AAA provides towing up to 100 miles for free, but there is a limited number of tows per year.
Battery Jump-Starts and Fuel Delivery: They offer standard roadside services like battery jump-starts and fuel delivery.
– **Travel Discounts**: AAA members receive various travel discounts and benefits.
Allstate
Allstate offers roadside assistance as an add-on to their insurance policies:
– **Towing**: Allstate provides towing up to 100 miles, similar to AAA.
– **24/7 Service**: They offer round-the-clock service for emergencies like lockouts and fuel delivery.
– **Rental Car Discounts**: Allstate members can receive discounts on rental cars.
State Farm
State Farm also offers roadside assistance as part of their insurance packages:
– **Towing**: State Farm provides towing up to 100 miles.
– **Emergency Road Service**: They offer battery jump-starts, fuel delivery, and lockout service.
– **Rental Car Coverage**: State Farm offers rental car coverage if your vehicle is in the shop for repairs.
Unique Benefits of Good Sam
Good Sam stands out for its focus on RV owners and extensive towing coverage:
– **RV Expertise**: Good Sam has a network of RV specialists and technicians, making it ideal for RV owners.
– **Unlimited Towing**: The unlimited towing distance to the nearest service center is a significant advantage for long-distance travelers.
– **Comprehensive Coverage**: Good Sam covers many vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and RVs, making it a versatile choice.
Roadside Assistance Plans Comparison
| Feature/Provider | Good Sam Roadside Assistance | AAA | Allstate Roadside Assistance | State Farm Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Roadside Assistance | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Towing Distance | Unlimited to nearest service center | Limited by membership level (3-200 miles) | Limited to 5-100 miles based on plan | Limited to 10-15 miles |
| Flat Tire Changes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Jump-Starts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Delivery | Yes | Yes (member pays for fuel) | Yes (member pays for fuel) | Yes (member pays for fuel) |
| Locksmith Services | Yes | Yes (up to $100 coverage) | Yes | Yes |
| RV and Trailer Assistance | Specialized, included in plans | Limited, requires RV-specific membership | Limited, may require add-on | Not included, requires special plan |
| Trip Interruption Coverage | Yes (Platinum Complete only) | Yes (varies by plan) | Yes (additional cost) | No |
| Emergency Medical Referral | Yes (Platinum Complete only) | No | No | No |
| Member Discounts and Benefits | Yes (camping, travel, fuel) | Yes (travel, dining, shopping) | Yes (varies) | Yes (varies by state) |
| Annual Pricing (Approximate) | $60 - $150 | $50 - $150 | $25 - $100 | Included with certain policies or additional fee |
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction Ratings
**Common Praises for Good Sam Roadside Assistance**
**Reliable Service for RV Owners**: Many customers appreciate that Good Sam’s is geared explicitly toward RV owners and travelers. They highlight the specialized assistance for RVs and trailers, noting that service providers are knowledgeable and equipped to handle larger vehicles. This makes Good Sam a preferred choice for those who regularly travel in RVs.
– **Customer Review**: *“I’ve used Good Sam several times while on the road with my RV, and their service has always been prompt and reliable. They know how to handle RVs, which is a huge plus for me.”*
**Unlimited Towing Distance**: Customers frequently praise the unlimited towing to the nearest service center, a standout feature compared to roadside assistance programs with mileage limits. This feature is particularly valued by those who travel in rural or less populated areas where service centers are far apart.
– **Customer Review**: *“Having unlimited towing has saved me multiple times when I’ve been stranded far from a town. I don’t have to worry about paying extra fees for long-distance tows.”*
**Quick Response Times**: Many users have reported fast response times, a crucial aspect of roadside assistance. Customers appreciate that Good Sam dispatches help promptly, reducing the time they spend waiting on the side of the road.
– **Customer Review**: *“I had a flat tire in a remote area, and Good Sam had someone there within an hour. They were professional and got me back on the road quickly.”*
**Friendly and Professional Service**: Good Sam’s service representatives and roadside assistance personnel often receive high marks for their professionalism and friendliness. This positive interaction leaves a good impression on members and makes stressful situations more manageable.
– **Customer Review**: *“The customer service team was very helpful when I called for assistance. They reassured me and stayed on the line until help arrived.”*
**Common Complaints about Good Sam Roadside Assistance**
**Inconsistent Service Quality**: Some customers have reported inconsistent experiences with service providers, noting that the quality of service can vary depending on location and the specific contractor sent to assist. This inconsistency can lead to frustration for members who expect uniform service quality.
– **Customer Review**: *“I’ve had good and bad experiences with Good Sam. Sometimes the service is excellent, but other times the wait is long, and the quality isn’t great.”*
**Long Wait Times in Remote Areas**: While Good Sam’s strives for prompt service, some members have mentioned experiencing longer wait times when they are in very remote areas or during peak travel seasons. This can concern those who often travel off the beaten path.
– **Customer Review**: *“I was stuck in a remote area, and it took several hours for help to arrive. I wish they had more service providers in less populated regions.”*
**Issues with Communication**: A few customers have expressed frustration with communication breakdowns between the customer service team and service providers, leading to delays or confusion about the location of the stranded vehicle.
– **Customer Review**: *“There was a mix-up with my location, which took a while to sort out. Better communication would have helped speed things up.”*
**Membership Renewal and Billing Issues**: Some members have reported difficulties with automatic membership renewals and billing, including being charged after canceling their membership. This has led to dissatisfaction among a segment of users.
– **Customer Review**: *“I had problems with billing after I canceled my membership. It took multiple calls to resolve the issue, which was frustrating.”*
**Satisfaction Ratings**
– **Overall Customer Satisfaction**: Good Sam Roadside Assistance generally receives favorable ratings from its members, particularly for its specialized RV services and unlimited towing benefits. Many customers express satisfaction with the reliability and professionalism of the service.
– **Ratings**: On average, Good Sam Roadside Assistance receives a rating of 4 out of 5 stars from customers across various review platforms. This rating reflects a strong performance in key areas, with room for service consistency and communication improvement.
How to Sign Up for Good Sam Roadside Assistance
Signing up for Good Sam Roadside Assistance is a straightforward process that can be completed online, over the phone, or through an insurance agent like Blake Insurance Group. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help potential clients get started with their Good Sam Roadside Assistance membership:
Research Membership Plans**
Before signing up, it’s essential to understand the different membership plans available and choose the one that best fits your needs. Good Sam offers three main plans:
**Standard Plan**: Basic coverage for everyday vehicles.
**Platinum Plan**: Enhanced benefits, including RV and trailer coverage.
**Platinum Complete Plan**: This is the most comprehensive plan, with additional features like trip interruption coverage and emergency medical referral services.
Take time to compare the plans and consider your driving habits, vehicle types, and travel frequency to decide which plan fits best.
Visit the Good Sam Website**.
To sign up directly, visit the official Good Sam Roadside Assistance website. Here’s how to navigate the process:
Go to www.goodsam.com
Click on the “Roadside Assistance” tab located on the top menu.
You’ll be directed to a page outlining the different roadside assistance plans. Under the plan that interests you, click on “Learn More” or “Sign Up.”
Review the details of the plan you’ve selected. Good Sam provides a breakdown of benefits, features, and pricing.
Fill Out the Online Application Form**
Once you’ve chosen a plan, you’ll need to fill out an application form with the following information:
**Personal Details**: Enter your name, address, phone number, and email address.
**Vehicle Information**: Provide details about the vehicles you want covered, including make, model, and year. This can include cars, motorcycles, and RVs.
**Payment Information**: Enter your payment details. Good Sam accepts major credit cards, and you can also set up automatic renewals for your membership.
Complete the Purchase**
Review your order after filling in your details to ensure everything is correct. Click on the “Submit” or “Purchase” button to complete your membership sign-up. You will receive a confirmation email with your membership details and a temporary membership card. Your official membership card will be mailed to you shortly after.
Sign Up Through Blake Insurance Group**
For a more personalized experience, you can also sign up for Good Sam Roadside Assistance through an independent insurance agent like Blake Insurance Group. Here’s how:
**Contact Blake Insurance Group**: Reach out via phone, email, or visit one of our offices in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tucson.
**Discuss Your Needs**: Our agents will help you choose the right Good Sam membership plan based on your requirements, vehicle types, and travel habits.
**Complete the Sign-Up Process**: Our agents will assist you in filling out the necessary forms and guide you through payment options.
**Receive Your Membership Materials**: Once the application is processed, you’ll receive your membership details, such as when you sign up online. Blake Insurance Group will also provide additional support and assistance if you have questions about your coverage or need to change your plan.
Download the Good Sam Roadside Assistance App**.
After signing up, enhance your roadside assistance experience by downloading the Good Sam mobile app. This app allows you to:
– Request roadside assistance with a few taps.
– Track the status of your service request in real time.
– Access your membership details and digital membership card.
The app is available for iOS and Android devices in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Keep Your Membership Card Handy**
Once you receive your Good Sam Roadside Assistance membership card, please keep it in your vehicle. This card contains your membership number and the 24/7 emergency hotline you can call for assistance. Having it readily available ensures you can quickly access services when you need them.
FAQs related to Good Sam Roadside Assistance
Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent
Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun: Closed