Getting the Most from AAA
Did you know that an early form of an automotive social network took root in 1902? A bunch of car fanatics got together in Cleveland, OH to create some maps and directions for drivers because they simply didn't have enough roads available.
The club quickly rose to over 1000 members and was called the American Automobile Association; demand escalated from there. Over the years they began creating hotel guides, driver safety programs and even acted as an official backer of professional automobile racing, including the Indianapolis 500 up until the 1950's.
Everyone is familiar with the typical AAA services such as unlocking your doors and helping with a tow to the garage.
However, there's a entire batch of value added services available to AAA club members that most people are not even aware of.
• Automotive Financial Services: Need help with credit cards, personal loans, certificates of deposit, money market accounts and IRAs?
• Automotive Scheduling Service: AAA's AutoManager will keep you current with your oil changes, tire rotation and engine tune-ups. This is a great service that will help keep your automotive housekeeping items in check.
• Bail Bond Service: Yes - AAA will actually provide a Guaranteed Arrest Bond Certificate. If you have a fine less than 1k, in some states you can use the certificate instead of cash. Additionally, up to a $5,000 bail bond for covered traffic violations may also be available.
• Body Shops/Repair Service: AAA has done the dirty work of scrutinizing public reviews, consumer reviews and even financial checks to find you the most reputable body shops and repair services in the country. Check out their Diamond Ratings and pick the best from the list.
• Driver Education & Training Service: This is an extremely valuable service - one that I will look into for my own kids when they start driving: Driver's Ed classes. Upon passing, your teen driver will get a free one-year Auto Club Dependent Associate Membership. Just as impressive is the Senior Driving courses available to those 55 and older. This is an incredible value as our nations largest demographic group ages.
• Jump Start Service: Need a jump? No problem. and they don't stop there. They don't want to just send you on your way; AAA tests, diagnoses and replaces batteries regardless of your location.
• Map/Trip Services: I remember using this service when I had to make my first solo road trip and being so impressed with the advances in technology as a 19 year old driver. AAA's mapping services are similar to other online services. Creating a TripTik allows you to pinpoint gas stations, restaurants, hotels and important travel elements. AAA's Diamond Rating is at work in the TripTik; showing you ratings for motels, hotels and restaurants to name a few.
• Prescription Services: On the road and need some drugs? AAA has more than 57,000 pharmacies that participate in it discount programs. Save wherever you can: 15 percent discounts for brand names, 35 percent for generic and for those traveling with pets, the discounts may even apply for them as well. (Be sure to check your club membership to ensure you qualify)
• Retail Discount Services: Who doesn't love a discount when shopping? Books, clothes, hotels, amusement parks. AAA can help. Just show them your card and start saving. (You'll need it for gas.)
• Travel Services: AAA doesn't limit you to automotive travel services. Did you know that you can book a cruise with AAA? Do your smart shopping and save more than just on automotive services.
Check out AAA's site for all the facts on the services as some of these are location specific and may depend on your membership status.
Have an interesting travel or AAA story? Share yours…
Eric Miltsch
Stumble It!
The club quickly rose to over 1000 members and was called the American Automobile Association; demand escalated from there. Over the years they began creating hotel guides, driver safety programs and even acted as an official backer of professional automobile racing, including the Indianapolis 500 up until the 1950's.
Everyone is familiar with the typical AAA services such as unlocking your doors and helping with a tow to the garage.
However, there's a entire batch of value added services available to AAA club members that most people are not even aware of.
• Automotive Financial Services: Need help with credit cards, personal loans, certificates of deposit, money market accounts and IRAs?
• Automotive Scheduling Service: AAA's AutoManager will keep you current with your oil changes, tire rotation and engine tune-ups. This is a great service that will help keep your automotive housekeeping items in check.
• Bail Bond Service: Yes - AAA will actually provide a Guaranteed Arrest Bond Certificate. If you have a fine less than 1k, in some states you can use the certificate instead of cash. Additionally, up to a $5,000 bail bond for covered traffic violations may also be available.
• Body Shops/Repair Service: AAA has done the dirty work of scrutinizing public reviews, consumer reviews and even financial checks to find you the most reputable body shops and repair services in the country. Check out their Diamond Ratings and pick the best from the list.
• Driver Education & Training Service: This is an extremely valuable service - one that I will look into for my own kids when they start driving: Driver's Ed classes. Upon passing, your teen driver will get a free one-year Auto Club Dependent Associate Membership. Just as impressive is the Senior Driving courses available to those 55 and older. This is an incredible value as our nations largest demographic group ages.
• Jump Start Service: Need a jump? No problem. and they don't stop there. They don't want to just send you on your way; AAA tests, diagnoses and replaces batteries regardless of your location.
• Map/Trip Services: I remember using this service when I had to make my first solo road trip and being so impressed with the advances in technology as a 19 year old driver. AAA's mapping services are similar to other online services. Creating a TripTik allows you to pinpoint gas stations, restaurants, hotels and important travel elements. AAA's Diamond Rating is at work in the TripTik; showing you ratings for motels, hotels and restaurants to name a few.
• Prescription Services: On the road and need some drugs? AAA has more than 57,000 pharmacies that participate in it discount programs. Save wherever you can: 15 percent discounts for brand names, 35 percent for generic and for those traveling with pets, the discounts may even apply for them as well. (Be sure to check your club membership to ensure you qualify)
• Retail Discount Services: Who doesn't love a discount when shopping? Books, clothes, hotels, amusement parks. AAA can help. Just show them your card and start saving. (You'll need it for gas.)
• Travel Services: AAA doesn't limit you to automotive travel services. Did you know that you can book a cruise with AAA? Do your smart shopping and save more than just on automotive services.
Check out AAA's site for all the facts on the services as some of these are location specific and may depend on your membership status.
Have an interesting travel or AAA story? Share yours…
Eric Miltsch
Stumble It!
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