Many drivers are fortunate enough to have experienced minimal trouble with their vehicle while driving. Scheduled maintenance can keep the systems running well, and dashboard lights will let you know if there's anything that needs to be addressed promptly.

Nevertheless, there is always the possibility that an unexpected incident will leave you stranded. Perhaps a piece of road debris will flatten a tire, or your gas tank will run dry after you ignore the "low fuel" warning for too long. While you can sometimes fix these problems on your own, you'll need more help if you encounter a more serious situation such as an engine issue or a broken windshield.

Roadside assistance plans will send someone to take care of you, whether you need a simple jump start or a tow to the nearest repair shop. But as the options for this service have become more plentiful, you may find it difficult to choose one that is right for you.

You might get some coverage when you purchase a vehicle from a dealership. Consumer Reports says several automakers include roadside assistance as part of their warranty, providing the coverage for a number of years or up to a certain mileage. Credit card companies may also automatically provide roadside assistance to cardholders.

If you already have a roadside assistance plan through one of these providers, you may want to hold off on purchasing a separate one. However, you should also make sure you are satisfied with its terms and conditions.

You also don't want to be hit with unexpected costs when a plan ceases to be complementary. The automotive site Edmunds.com says you might get roadside service for a year or two when you buy a vehicle, but be charged the usual monthly rate once this incentive expires.

Review the coverage of the plan to see if there are any restrictions. Mac Demere, writing for Popular Mechanics, says you should find out if you are covered for situations that are most likely to arise. These include whether the plan will cover you if you are a passenger in a vehicle, if any vehicles or services are not offered, and if there is a limit on the towing distance which will be provided free of charge.

There may also be rules on where your vehicle can be taken if it needs to be towed. Some manufacturers may require you to take the vehicle to the nearest approved service center, which could mean that you have to take it to an unfamiliar service center.

You may be able to include roadside assistance in one of your existing plans rather than a specialized one. Charles Costa, writing for Angie's List, says you can get a plan through your credit card company, dealership, or insurer.

Again, you should be aware of any restrictions or effects of a plan offered through these providers. Roadside assistance offered through an insurer is often inexpensive, but could result in higher rates when you use it. Credit card companies typically allow you to call a number on the card for assistance, and summon the nearest available company in their network; however, this service is often more costly than other plans.

Review the plan to see if there are any limitations on the coverage. Consumer Reports says you might only be allowed a certain number of calls in a 12-month period. The plan might only apply to certain areas or types of roadway, or it might not send someone out during inclement weather. Demere says you shouldn't expect a roadside service provider to send a tow truck to an off-road destination or other hard-to-reach location.

Research the various plans to see how satisfied other customers are with the coverage. The Better Business Bureau will log any complaints, such as dissatisfaction with the response time or unwarranted charges.

You can also determine whether you're likely to use any added benefits of a plan. In addition to roadside assistance, providers may offer perks such as motel discounts. If you think you'll use these incentives frequently, these extras might be enough to convince you to go with the provider.