When you buy your car insurance policy, ask whether they can offer you roadside assistance. The insurance company may allow you to choose a roadside assistance program or to add to your policy. You may have different options to choose from, with many levels of coverage. Here are some of the most common emergency roadside assistance coverages to ask about: Flat tire change: Got a flat? All you have to do is call the 24/7 toll-free number. The emergency roadside assistance customer service representative will send out someone to do the tire change on the scene. Emergency towing: If that flat can't be fixed on the scene, or if a different mechanical issue arises and the vehicle needs to be towed to a garage, the towing may be covered too. Drained battery, lock-out, or lost keys: You left the lights on. Now the battery is drained, and the car won't start. The emergency assistance will come out and take care of that too. Also, if the keys are lost ...