One: How many membership types does the company offer?

Many companies that offer auto club insurance break their services into several membership types. For example, you might find a company that offers three kinds of membership packages (basic, mid-level, and premium), or you might find a company that simply offers a basic package and a premium package. Some companies keep it even simpler and offer one, all-encompassing membership package designed to fit the needs of the majority of drivers.

Take the time to carefully look at each membership type. The goal is to choose the package that will offer all the services you need at a price you can afford.

Two: Do any of the membership types place limits on the services?

Some of the most common situations that call for roadside assistance include running out of fuel, getting a flat tire, locking the keys in the vehicle, having a dead battery, and needing a tow.

As you're shopping for companies that offer auto club insurance, and comparing the different membership types each company offers, pay attention to the limits each company might place on these services. If you do a lot of traveling, choosing to go with a business that only allows one or two of each of these common services per year might not be your best bet. On the other hand, if you don't drive much or travel far from your home, friends, and family members, these kinds of service limits might not affect you.

Three: Does the membership type that best suits my budget also best suit my needs?

Americans are more interested than they've ever been in saving money; however, it's important to know where you can and can't cut corners.

Choosing an auto club insurance plan based solely on its price could mean skimping out on crucial services you'll need later on. Not having these services in your plan means you'll have to pay for them out of your own pocket, and that could mean paying more than you would if you'd chosen the plan that covers the services.

Four: How many states does the auto club insurance span?

You might feel comfortable doing business with a locally owned auto club insurance company, but oftentimes the services these companies offer only span a short distance ? your county, state, or a few states at most. If you're a frequent traveler, look for companies with roadside assistance plans that span the nation, or at least all the areas you regularly visit.

Five: Which drivers will the auto club insurance cover?

If you're a single individual and the only person who drives your vehicle, choosing an auto club insurance plan that only covers one person probably won't negatively affect you; however, married couples and families need a plan that will cover every household member who drives the vehicle. Shop around for roadside assistance plans that automatically cover each driver rather than those that will cover more than one driver at additional costs.