Each year, over 100 million drivers find themselves stuck on the side of the road. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or a vehicle that simply won’t budge, it’s tempting to try and fix the issue yourself. But today’s vehicles—especially electric ones—are far more complex than they used to be. Without the right tools and training, DIY roadside fixes can be risky, expensive, and, most importantly, unsafe.
That’s where roadside assistance comes in. Calling for professional help is the quickest, safest, and most efficient way to get back on the road. But it’s not just the roadside program that makes a difference—it’s the service providers (SPs) who show up, tools in hand, ready to help. Here are three reasons why it’s smart to leave roadside fixes to these trusted professionals.
Think of service providers as the first responders of the road. These trained technicians work closely with roadside assistance programs to help stranded drivers with everything from jump starts and tire changes to lockouts, winching, and towing. They’re highly skilled, certified, and equipped to handle issues across all vehicle types—including the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road.
Different vehicle problems require different solutions. For example, an EV with a flat tire involves a completely different approach than a gas-powered car. Towing a vintage vehicle from the 1920s? That takes special equipment and care compared to hauling a modern SUV. Service providers are part technician, part engineer, and part problem-solver, tailoring every fix to the specific car and situation.
To stay sharp, service providers are constantly updating their skills and learning about new vehicle technology and equipment. This deep knowledge allows them to quickly diagnose and resolve issues safely—saving you time, money, and stress.
Most service providers bring years—if not decades—of experience to the table. Many are part of local, family-owned businesses that have served their communities for generations. And beyond their technical know-how, they’re passionate about helping people.
Whether it’s delivering a battery to a stranded EV owner or pulling a pickup out of a ditch during a storm, SPs take great pride in their work. That pride often shows in the details—from a meticulously clean truck to custom-painted tow rigs that reflect personality and professionalism.
At the heart of it all is a simple truth: service providers care. They want you to feel safe, supported, and confident that your vehicle is in good hands.
Roadside service is no easy job. It requires physical labor, long hours, and the ability to adapt quickly in high-stress situations. SPs spend their days driving from one call to the next, often covering large territories that include both urban roads and remote highways. They juggle communication between dispatchers and drivers, ensure they bring the right tools, and perform fixes on tight schedules—frequently with no breaks in between.
But here’s what many don’t realize: this work can be incredibly dangerous. SPs regularly operate near speeding traffic, in bad weather, and in poorly lit or narrow spaces. Tragically, a service provider loses their life on the job every six days in the U.S.
Despite these risks, they show up—day and night—to keep other drivers safe. We can help protect them by staying alert, slowing down near disabled vehicles, and giving roadside workers the space they need to do their jobs.
Every year, over 700 people die while trying to fix their own vehicles on the side of the road. No matter your skill level, attempting a repair in traffic, poor visibility, or extreme weather is never worth the risk. Roadside professionals are trained to handle these situations safely, using proper techniques and industry-standard equipment.
If your motor club includes roadside assistance, use it. It’s the smartest way to get help—and potentially avoid putting yourself or others in danger.
In 2023, over 240 million drivers hit the roads across the U.S.—and more than half experienced a roadside event. These situations are part of everyday driving life, and the people who respond to them are essential.
Service providers do more than fix cars. They rescue drivers. They bring peace of mind. And they deserve to be recognized as the true heroes of roadside assistance programs.
So next time you’re in a jam, skip the DIY—and trust the pros who are ready to help, rain or shine.