Winter mornings can be unforgiving, especially when your car refuses to start. A dead battery in freezing temperatures is a common issue, and it’s reassuring that you are thinking ahead about whether your roadside assistance plan will help. Most roadside assistance services offer support for battery-related breakdowns, but the extent of coverage, especially for towing, depends on your specific plan.

Rakesh Kaul, Head - Chief Distribution Officer – Retail Business, Bajaj General Insurance Limited, said, “Generally, roadside assistance will first attempt to jump-start the vehicle. If that fails and the battery is beyond revival, towing is usually the next step. However, towing isn’t always unlimited. Many plans include towing within a fixed radius, such as 10 or 25 kilometres, though some companies provide coverage up to 100 kilometres. If your preferred garage is farther away, you may have to pay the additional cost. Some providers only tow to the nearest authorised service centre, so it’s wise to check these details in advance.”

Kaul said another factor to consider is whether your plan treats battery failure as an emergency. Cold weather-induced battery failure is typically covered, but if the battery is old or poorly maintained, some providers may classify it as a non-emergency or deny coverage. “Most companies won’t investigate the root cause during a roadside call; they will focus on getting you moving again,” he said.

If your roadside assistance is included with your car insurance or provided by your car’s manufacturer, check for any time or mileage limits. Manufacturer plans often expire after a few years, and insurance plans may require you to add roadside coverage. It’s always wise to purchase roadside assistance with your motor policy, as this provides an end-to-end solution from the accident scene to legal advice, emergency accommodation, arranging an emergency taxi, and leaving your vehicle with a reliable repairer.

Roadside assistance usually includes help if your battery dies in cold weather, including towing if needed. But the exact services and limits depend on your plan. Some policies only cover towing for a short distance or to certain garages. 

That’s why it’s important to check your coverage details now, before you need help. Knowing what’s included can save you time, money, and stress when you're stuck on the road. Being prepared means less stress and more confidence on the road.