Roadside Assistance in India — Who to Call When You're Stuck
Flat tyre, dead battery, engine trouble — here's how to get help on Indian roads and highways.
Breaking down on an Indian highway — especially at night — can be dangerous. Help is available if you know where to call. Here's a complete guide to roadside assistance services across India.
Quick Facts
- ●NHAI Highway: 1033
- ●Maruti RSA: 1800-102-1800
- ●Hyundai RSA: 1800-11-4645
- ●Insurance RSA: check your policy
- ●Hazard lights + triangles: immediately
- ●Exit vehicle from the LEFT side only
Step 1: Move to Safety
Before calling for help, ensure your safety:
- ›Pull over to the hard shoulder (left side) if possible.
- ›Turn on hazard lights immediately.
- ›Place reflective warning triangles 50 metres (urban) or 150 metres (highway) behind your vehicle.
- ›All passengers: exit from the left (away from traffic) and stand behind the road barrier.
- ›Wear a reflective vest if you have one.
- ›Do NOT try to fix anything on the carriageway side of the vehicle.
Your Insurance Company RSA
Most comprehensive car insurance policies include Roadside Assistance (RSA) as a standard or add-on feature:
- ›Call your insurer's 24/7 helpline (number is on your policy document and the insurer's app).
- ›Services typically included: towing, flat tyre change, battery jumpstart, fuel delivery, lockout assistance.
- ›Towing limit: usually 50–100 km free.
- ›Response time: 30–60 minutes in metro areas, longer in rural areas.
- ›Check if your policy has RSA — if not, add it at renewal (costs ₹500–₹1,500/year).
Car Manufacturer Helplines
Most major car manufacturers offer 24/7 roadside assistance for their vehicles:
- ›Maruti Suzuki: 1800-102-1800 (toll-free).
- ›Hyundai: 1800-11-4645 (toll-free).
- ›Tata Motors: 1800-209-8282.
- ›Mahindra: 1800-209-6006.
- ›Kia: 1800-108-5000.
- ›Toyota: 1800-425-0001.
- ›Honda: 1800-113-636.
- ›MG Motor: 1800-102-1211.
- ›Check your car's handbook for the specific RSA number and coverage terms.
NHAI Highway Helpline
If you break down on a national highway:
- ›Call 1033 — NHAI's 24/7 highway helpline.
- ›Highway patrol vehicles: NHAI operates patrol vehicles on major national highways. They can help with basic mechanical issues and towing.
- ›SOS pillars: on expressways, use the orange emergency pillars every 2 km.
- ›Toll plaza assistance: the nearest toll plaza may have a mechanic or can arrange towing.
Third-Party RSA Services
Independent roadside assistance services:
- ›AAI (Automobile Association of India): membership-based RSA.
- ›Various app-based mechanics: GoMechanic, myTVS, etc. — available in metros.
- ›Local mechanics: in rural India, local mechanics are often the fastest option. Ask at the nearest dhaba or petrol pump.
What to Do While Waiting
While waiting for help to arrive:
- ›Stay off the road — wait behind the barrier or well away from traffic.
- ›Keep your phone charged — conserve battery for communication.
- ›If it's night: keep interior lights on so your vehicle is visible.
- ›If someone stops to help: be cautious but grateful. Note their vehicle number.
- ›Share your live location with family.
- ›If you feel unsafe: call 112 (police).
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my car insurance include roadside assistance?
What is the NHAI helpline for highway breakdowns?
What should I do first if my car breaks down on a highway?
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