A flat tire on a rainy day is a lot easier to deal with when you have a competent roadside assistance plan at your beck and call. However, not all roadside assistance plans qualify as competent, and some can actually prove to be more detrimental than helpful.

When choosing a roadside assistance plan, it’s always a good idea to do your homework. Several things should be taken into consideration before signing up for a plan.

• Reputation

Longevity and customer base are two strong indicators of a company’s reputation. One that’s been around a long time and boasts a large customer base is one that has proven satisfactory over the long haul. In addition, a company that has a bigger customer base likely has a larger network of mechanics and auto body shops at its disposal, which could greatly reduce the time spent stranded on the side of the road.

• Membership options

Most roadside assistance plans offer a basic membership package as well as a preferred package. For example, a basic membership might offer 50 miles of free towing, whereas a preferred membership may offer 100 miles. Other benefits apply to preferred packages that could be worth the extra cost. Inquire as to the differences in cost and if the difference in price is minimal, the preferred package is probably worth the extra money.

• Family memberships

For parents, knowing a driving-age child has the security of a roadside assistance plan can greatly reduce the anxiety when that child heads out on the road. Inquire as to the availability of family memberships, and what the extra cost is for each member of the family, including a spouse. Typically family rates are available, and the cost per person will get lower with each family member added.

• Read the fine print

While not all policies offered by insurance companies are bad, some can be more trouble than they’re worth. That’s because some companies consider a roadside assistance call to be a claim, which will affect your auto insurance rate. Even if you’re not in an accident, your insurance provider might consider a call to help fix a flat tire to be a claim.

In the long run, this can negatively affect the price of your insurance policy, as the more claims you have the higher your premium will become. Before signing up for any roadside assistance plan with an insurance provider, make sure it’s not their company policy. If it is, seek a plan with someone else.