Roadside assistance has become an essential service for drivers of all ages and experience levels. Even the most well-maintained vehicles can experience unexpected problems, and not every driver has the tools, skills, or safety conditions necessary to handle a breakdown alone. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or traveling long distances, roadside assistance provides peace of mind when things don’t go as planned.

Understanding the most common reasons people call for roadside help can help you better prepare for emergencies and reduce the chances of being stranded. Below are 11 of the most frequent situations that lead drivers to rely on the services of a roadside assistance and towing company.

1. Flat or Blown Tires

Flat tires are one of the leading causes of roadside assistance calls. Nails, screws, glass, potholes, and worn-out tread can all cause a tire to lose air suddenly or gradually. While some drivers carry a spare tire and know how to change it, many vehicles today either lack a spare or require special tools and procedures.

A blown tire on a busy road or highway can be especially dangerous. Roadside assistance and towing company professionals can safely replace the tire or tow the vehicle to a nearby repair shop if the damage is severe. Regular tire inspections, proper inflation, and timely replacements can reduce the risk, but flats can still happen without warning.

2. Dead or Weak Batteries

A dead battery is another extremely common reason drivers need help. Batteries can fail due to age, extreme temperatures, leaving lights or electronics on, or electrical system issues. Many drivers only discover a dead battery when the car refuses to start, often at the most inconvenient times.

Roadside assistance providers can jump the vehicle or replace the battery on the spot in some cases. Since most car batteries last between three and five years, proactive testing and replacement can help prevent unexpected failures, but a roadside assistance and towing company remains invaluable when a battery dies unexpectedly.

3. Running Out of Fuel

Running out of gas may seem avoidable, but it happens more often than people realize. Faulty fuel gauges, long stretches between gas stations, heavy traffic, or simple forgetfulness can leave a driver stranded. This issue is particularly common during road trips or in unfamiliar areas.

Roadside assistance can deliver enough fuel to get you to the nearest gas station safely. While this is usually a quick fix, repeatedly running out of fuel can damage the fuel pump and other components, making awareness and planning important for long-term vehicle health.

4. Locked Keys Inside the Vehicle

Locking keys inside a car is a frustrating and surprisingly frequent problem. Modern vehicles with automatic locking systems can increase the likelihood of accidental lockouts, especially when drivers step out briefly and the doors lock behind them.

Roadside assistance and towing company technicians have the tools and training for unlocking vehicles without damaging the doors, locks, or windows. While spare keys and keyless entry systems help reduce the risk, lockouts remain a common reason people seek professional help on the road.

5. Engine Overheating

An overheating engine can quickly turn a minor issue into a major mechanical failure if not addressed promptly. Common causes include low coolant levels, radiator leaks, broken fans, or thermostat problems. Overheating often occurs in hot weather, heavy traffic, or during long drives.

When an engine overheats, a roadside assistance and towing company can help by towing the vehicle to a repair facility or providing basic support to prevent further damage. Continuing to drive an overheating car can result in costly repairs, making immediate assistance crucial.

6. Mechanical or Engine Failure

Unexpected mechanical failures can happen even with regular maintenance. Issues such as broken belts, faulty alternators, transmission problems, or ignition system failures can cause a vehicle to stall or stop running entirely.

In these situations, roadside assistance doubles as a towing company to take your car to a trusted repair shop. While some mechanical issues offer warning signs, others occur suddenly, underscoring the importance of having access to reliable roadside help.

7. Electrical System Problems

Modern vehicles rely heavily on complex electrical systems. Problems with wiring, fuses, sensors, or onboard computers can prevent a car from starting or operating properly. Electrical issues can be difficult for drivers to diagnose without specialized equipment.

Roadside assistance professionals can assess basic electrical problems and determine whether you need a jump, minor repairs, or towing. As vehicles continue to incorporate more technology, electrical issues are becoming a more common reason for roadside calls.

8. Accidents and Minor Collisions

Even minor accidents can leave a vehicle unsafe or inoperable. Fender benders, curb impacts, or hitting debris on the road can damage tires, suspension components, or body panels, making it risky to continue driving.

Roadside assistance can help by towing the vehicle, coordinating with repair facilities, or assisting with safe removal from traffic. Having professional support after an accident can reduce stress and improve safety for everyone involved.

9. Weather-Related Issues

Extreme weather conditions often lead to roadside assistance and towing company calls. Snow, ice, heavy rain, and flooding can cause vehicles to slide off the road, get stuck, or suffer mechanical issues. Cold weather, in particular, increases battery failures and tire pressure problems.

Roadside assistance providers are equipped to help with winching, towing, and emergency support during adverse conditions. Preparing your vehicle for seasonal weather can help, but professional assistance is often essential during severe conditions.

10. Lack of Tools or Experience

Sometimes the issue isn’t severe, but the driver lacks the tools, physical ability, or experience to fix it safely. Changing a tire on a busy highway, diagnosing a warning light, or dealing with an unfamiliar problem can be intimidating or dangerous.

Roadside assistance offers a safe, professional solution when drivers prefer not to attempt repairs themselves. This is especially important for older drivers, new drivers, or anyone traveling alone in unfamiliar areas.

11. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Warnings

Many drivers contact a roadside assistance and towing company after a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) warning light appears on the dashboard. While the alert is designed to improve safety, it can be confusing or alarming, especially if the vehicle’s handling feels normal. Drivers may be unsure whether the warning indicates a slow leak, a sudden pressure loss, or a sensor malfunction.

Roadside assistance professionals can check tire pressure, identify leaks, and determine whether it is safe to continue driving. In some cases, the issue is a minor pressure adjustment, while in others it may require a tire repair or replacement. Having expert help prevents unnecessary risk and provides reassurance when dashboard alerts appear unexpectedly.

Why Roadside Assistance Matters

Roadside assistance isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety and peace of mind. Being stranded on the side of the road can expose drivers to traffic hazards, extreme weather, and stressful situations. According to Agero, a vehicle’s drivetrain and frequency of use are the top predictors of whether its driver will require roadside assistance; specifically, once one's vehicle frequency reaches 250 miles or more per week, they're more likely to need the assistance of a professional towing company. Experts help minimize risks and ensure problems are handled efficiently.

No driver plans to need roadside assistance, but unexpected issues are part of vehicle ownership. From flat tires and dead batteries to mechanical failures and weather-related problems, these common situations highlight why having roadside coverage is a smart investment. Being prepared ensures that when the unexpected happens, help is only a phone call away. Our team at E.A. Towing has served the Murfreesboro, TN are for decades. Contact us when you need roadside assistance!