Join If: You drive and don't already have emergency roadside assistance through your auto-insurance plan or car warranty. Even then you may want to get third-party coverage: Drivers got quicker service from independent providers than from manufacturer-sponsored plans, according to a 2000 study by J. D. Power and Associates.

Options

AAA (American Automobile Association)
AAA has 47 million members, and in 2004 it responded to 29 million roadside-service calls. In addition to roadside assistance, AAA members receive free maps and travel planning, and discounts on everything from home insurance to movie tickets. Annual fees vary by region, but the cost for one person ranges from $38 to $77 a year, plus a $10 to $20 enrollment fee. Go to www.aaa.com for more information.

BWC (Better World Club)
Formed in 1996, BWC offers what it calls an environmentally friendly alternative to AAA. Its reach of service is comparable to AAA's, and it donates 1 percent of its revenues to environmental and advocacy charities. Members also receive discounts on hybrid-car purchases and rentals. Membership starts at $54 a year, plus a $10 sign-up fee. For $40, BWC also offers a nationwide roadside-assistance program for bicycles. Go to www.betterworldclub.com or call 866-238-1137 for more information.