When I started driving twenty years and six cars ago, my parents made sure I was covered by AAA. Since then I’ve depended on AAA for flat tires, towing, battery charges and unlocking my car door...

I can still remember that ‘Oh crap!’ split second feeling as I slammed the car door closed and stood staring at the keys dangling from the ignition inside. The beauty of AAA is all you have to do is show your card.

I've found AAA to be fast, efficient, courteous and hassle-free. But did you know your AAA benefits extend beyond the hood of your car. Your membership can help you look for a new or used car, locate dependable dealers and financing. It can provide you with insurance for auto, home and life. It can help you plan vacations and tours, book activities and attractions, and supply you with maps and directions. They even highlight the best road routes for you on the maps which can be broken down in two hour increments: letting you know ahead of time which exits have food and gas. The benefits also extend to price cuts on admission to museums and movie theaters as well as discounts at hotels and even stores such as Barnes & Noble, Payless Shoes, Gateway, FTD and more.

I would recommend paying extra and getting the AAA Plus. They will tow you up to 100 miles. Basic AAA only pays for the first three miles of towing. So, with AAA Plus, you can pretty much get towed directly to a garage or to your house.

AAA Plus is only about $60 a year, and well worth every cent!! For more information or to become a AAA member, visit: http://www.AAA.com.