Quick Answer: Farmers Insurance typically pays $75-100 per towing incident if you have their roadside assistance coverage. Without it, you pay out of pocket. Coverage varies by policy, so check your declarations page for exact limits.
What To Do
Check your policy first - Look at your declarations page or call Farmers at 1-888-327-6335 to confirm you have roadside assistance coverage
Call Farmers roadside assistance - Use 1-800-435-7764 or their mobile app to request towing service
Stay with your vehicle - Wait for the approved tow truck they dispatch
Show your insurance card - The tow operator will handle billing directly with Farmers up to your coverage limit
Pay any overage - If towing costs exceed your policy limit, you’ll pay the difference on the spot
Keep all receipts - Save documentation for any out-of-pocket expenses
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Coverage Details
Farmers roadside assistance typically includes:
- Basic plan: $75 per towing incident
- Enhanced plan: $100 per towing incident
- Premier plan: $150 per towing incident
Distance limits usually cap at 15-25 miles to the nearest qualified repair facility. Longer distances cost extra. In practice, that 15-mile cap gets eaten up fast in rural areas where the nearest shop is in the next town over. If your car breaks down on a remote stretch of highway, you could easily be looking at a 30-40 mile tow, which means you’re paying the difference out of pocket even before you walk into the repair shop.
It also matters whether you call Farmers directly or arrange your own tow. If you call a local company without going through Farmers dispatch first, the reimbursement process is slower and not guaranteed. Always use the Farmers number or app to initiate the request so billing flows directly to them.
Coverage also includes jump-starts, lockout service, flat tire changes, and emergency fuel delivery. These non-towing services are generally covered per incident with no additional cost, though most plans limit you to a set number of service calls per year, typically three to five. If you hit that cap mid-year, you’re self-paying until your policy renews.
What It Might Cost
- Monthly premium: $15-25 added to your auto policy
- Annual cost: $180-300 per year
- Without coverage: $75-200+ per tow, depending on distance and time of day
That out-of-pocket range is worth taking seriously. A flatbed tow in a metro area during evening hours can run $150 just for the hookup fee before they charge per mile. Weekend and holiday rates from independent tow operators often carry a surcharge of $25-50 on top of standard rates. If your car needs a specialized tow, like a low-clearance vehicle or all-wheel drive that can’t be dragged on two wheels, expect to pay more regardless of your coverage tier.
Adding roadside assistance to an existing Farmers policy is usually straightforward. You can do it through your agent or online account, and it typically takes effect the same day. Don’t wait until you’re already broken down to find out you never added it.
If You Don’t Have Coverage
Call local tow companies directly and compare rates. AAA membership ($60-120 annually) provides similar benefits if you qualify. Some credit cards, particularly travel-focused ones, also include roadside assistance as a cardholder benefit. Check your card’s benefits portal before assuming you’re on your own. It won’t replace a dedicated policy, but it can cover a basic tow in a pinch.
Common Questions
Q: Can I use any tow truck or does it have to be one Farmers sends? A: Farmers prefers you use their dispatched provider to guarantee direct billing. If you use an outside company, you can submit for reimbursement, but approval is not automatic and processing takes longer. Always call their roadside number first.
Q: Does roadside assistance through Farmers count as a claim and raise my rates? A: Roadside assistance calls are generally not treated as at-fault claims and should not affect your premium. That said, excessive service use in a short period can sometimes flag your account, so it is worth confirming with your agent if you have concerns.
Q: What if the tow costs more than my coverage limit? A: You pay the difference directly to the tow operator at the time of service. If you are towed 40 miles and your plan covers $75, and the bill comes to $180, you owe $105 on the spot. Have a payment method ready before the truck arrives.
Photo: Pexels
Stay Safe
- Pull completely off the road if possible
- Turn on hazard lights
- Stay inside your vehicle on busy highways
- Have your policy number and location ready when calling
- Never accept towing from unsolicited operators
Need roadside help? Visit Tow With The Flow for real answers when your car breaks down.