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When you're broken down on the side of the road, the last thing you want to do is work out which type of service you need. Here's a clear explanation of the difference — and a scenario-by-scenario breakdown so you know exactly who to call.
Roadside Assistance
An on-the-spot fix that gets you going again without needing to tow your car.
- ✓Jump starting a flat battery
- ✓Delivering emergency fuel
- ✓Fitting a spare tyre
- ✓Unlocking a locked car
- ✓Minor on-the-spot repairs
Towing
When your vehicle cannot be fixed at the roadside and needs to be moved to a safe location or mechanic.
- →Engine or mechanical failure
- →Accident damage
- →Overheating — don't drive it
- →Bogged or stuck vehicles
- →Any car that cannot safely move
What Do You Need? — Scenario Guide
Flat battery / car won't start
Roadside assistance firstA jump start may get you going. If the battery is beyond recovery, a tow to a mechanic or auto-electrician is the next step.
Run out of fuel
Roadside assistanceFuel delivery gets you to the nearest service station. No tow needed in most cases.
Flat tyre with a spare
Roadside assistanceWe fit your spare on-site. If you have no spare or the tyre is damaged beyond a spare, a tow to a tyre shop is required.
Locked keys in car
Roadside assistanceA lockout service can help gain entry. In some cases a locksmith is required — we can advise.
Engine failure or mechanical breakdown
Tow truckIf the engine won't run or there's a mechanical failure, roadside assistance cannot fix this. A tow to a mechanic is needed.
Car accident with damage
Tow truckAny vehicle with structural or mechanical damage from an accident needs a tow. Your insurer will cover this for comprehensive policy holders.
Overheating engine
Tow truck (usually)Do not drive an overheating car. Shut off the engine immediately. In most cases a tow to a mechanic is the safest option.
Bogged or stuck vehicle
Recovery / tow truckIf you're bogged in sand, mud or a ditch, you need specialist recovery equipment — not standard roadside assistance.
What About RAA, NRMA or Other Breakdown Cover?
Membership organisations like RAA (Royal Automobile Club of WA) provide roadside assistance as part of their service. They can typically handle jump starts, fuel, tyres and lockouts. They also provide limited towing — usually to the nearest mechanic within a set distance.
If you need a tow beyond their covered distance, or to a specific destination, you'll need to arrange a separate tow truck — and your comprehensive insurance will typically cover the cost. Tow Rite bills insurers directly, so there's no upfront cost for most policy holders.
Tip: Have both numbers ready
Keep your RAA/breakdown membership number and Tow Rite's number (0405 888 555) saved in your phone. If your breakdown cover can't fix it on the spot, you'll know exactly who to call next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Tow Rite do both roadside assistance AND towing?
Yes. Tow Rite provides both services across Perth metro. We'll attempt a roadside fix first if appropriate, and transition to a full tow if needed — same operator, no second callout fee.
Is roadside assistance covered by insurance?
Roadside assistance callouts are not typically covered by comprehensive car insurance — that's what RAA/NRMA membership is for. However, towing from the scene of a breakdown IS usually covered under comprehensive policies. Tow Rite bills your insurer directly.
What if I'm not an RAA member and I just need a jump start?
Call Tow Rite. We offer roadside assistance including jump starts, fuel delivery and flat tyre help on a pay-per-use basis. No membership required.
How quickly can you get to me for roadside assistance in Perth?
We aim to be on scene within 30 minutes across the Perth metro area. From our Malaga depot, we typically cover the northern suburbs within 10–15 minutes.
Need Help in Perth — Roadside or Towing?
One call covers both. Police checked operators. Free quote. 24/7.