Who to call if you need jumper cables

If you need jumper cables or a jump-start, call roadside assistance first—through AAA, your auto insurance, or your vehicle maker’s program—or a local towing/roadside service. If you’re on a highway and feel unsafe, call 911. In parking garages, workplaces, or campuses, building security often carries jump packs. Friends or neighbors can help in safer settings, and many areas have free freeway service patrols you can reach via 511 or state patrol.

Start with roadside assistance you already have

The fastest reliable help often comes from services you may already pay for, even if you don’t realize it. These providers dispatch professionals equipped to jump-start modern vehicles safely and can test your battery on the spot.

• Auto clubs: AAA and similar clubs offer jump-starts, often included in membership.
• Auto insurance: Many policies include optional roadside assistance covering jump-starts; check your ID card or app for the number.
• Automaker programs: Newer cars frequently come with complimentary roadside assistance for a limited time (varies by brand and model year).
• Credit cards: Some cards provide roadside dispatch services for a flat, pay-per-use fee; check benefits in your card app/portal.
• Mobile carriers: Programs such as Verizon Roadside Assistance (add-on plan) can dispatch a jump-start if you’re enrolled.

These channels typically verify membership and location, then send a nearby provider. Expect common wait times of 20–60 minutes, longer in severe weather or peak periods.

No plan? Call a local tow or mobile roadside provider

If you don’t have a membership or add-on plan, local towing companies and mobile roadside providers can deliver quick jump-starts for a one-time fee.

• Search phrases: “jump start service near me,” “roadside assistance near me,” or “mobile battery service.”
• Dispatch networks: Platforms like HONK or Urgently connect consumers with vetted local providers in many U.S. cities.
• Typical cost: Often $50–$120 depending on time of day, distance, and region; ask for an estimate before confirming.

Independent providers usually operate 24/7 and can take card payments over the phone or on arrival. Confirm they’re equipped for your vehicle type (e.g., start-stop systems or vehicles with remote jump posts).

Help in specific locations

Highways and interstates

Safety comes first on high-speed roads. If your car is stopped in a travel lane or you feel endangered, call 911 immediately. Where it’s safe and legal, pull to the shoulder, turn on hazard lights, and stay in the vehicle with seatbelt on.

• State/Freeway service patrols: Many regions run free patrols (e.g., Freeway Service Patrol, Road Rangers, HERO units) that can provide a jump during patrol hours.
• How to reach them: In many areas you can dial 511 or the state highway patrol/non-emergency number; exact availability varies by state and metro.
• Mile markers matter: Note your direction of travel and the nearest mile marker or exit for the dispatcher.

These patrols focus on quick roadside safety assistance and won’t sell parts, but they can often provide a jump-start or help arrange a tow.

Parking garages, workplaces, campuses, and apartments

On private property, the fastest help may already be on site.

• Garage/building security: Many carry portable jump packs and can assist or guide you to posted procedures.
• Property management: Apartment complexes often have maintenance or contracted patrols who can help.
• Campus police/security: Colleges frequently offer motorist assists, including jump-starts, to students and staff.

Confirm any liability waivers and follow posted instructions; staff are used to these calls and can usually respond quickly.

Retail lots and auto parts stores

Retailers can be a resource, with limits.

• Auto parts stores: Many will test batteries and charging systems at the store and may loan tools or jump packs, but typically won’t leave the premises.
• Warehouse clubs and dealerships: Service departments can help during business hours if you can get the car to them or arrange mobile service.

Call ahead to confirm policies and hours, as services vary by location and staff availability.

People you know

If you’re in a safe location, a friend, neighbor, or coworker can help—especially if they have a portable jump starter. Modern vehicles often have designated jump points; check the owner’s manual to avoid damaging electronics.

• Use quality cables (thick-gauge, clean clamps) or a reputable jump pack.
• Follow the manual’s sequence; many cars have remote positive/negative posts under the hood.
• Let the revived vehicle run to recharge; if it dies again soon, the battery or alternator may need service.

If there’s any uncertainty about the procedure or battery condition, it’s safer to call a professional to prevent costly electrical damage.

If your car is an EV or hybrid

Electric and hybrid vehicles still rely on a 12‑volt battery for control systems. A “jump-start” typically refers to that 12‑volt system—not the high-voltage traction battery.

• Check the owner’s manual for 12‑volt jump-start points and procedures specific to your model.
• Do not attempt to jump another car using your EV’s traction system; use only the designated 12‑volt terminals.
• Most EV makers provide roadside assistance that can address a discharged 12‑volt battery or arrange towing to charging if you’re out of range.

Because EVs and hybrids have unique electrical systems, using a professional or the automaker’s roadside service is recommended if you’re unsure.

What to do while you wait

Whether you’ve called a provider or a friend, a few steps can speed help and keep you safe.

• Move to a safe spot, set the parking brake, and turn on hazard lights.
• Raise the hood to signal distress if safe to do so.
• Share precise location details: cross streets, mile markers, GPS pin, vehicle make/model/color, and license plate.
• Reduce electrical load: turn off lights, HVAC, and accessories to preserve remaining battery.
• Stay in the vehicle if near traffic; use reflective triangles or a safety vest if you must exit.

Clear information and visible signals help responders find you faster and work more safely, especially at night or in poor weather.

What to avoid

Improper jump-starting can damage electronics or cause injury. Use caution and skip DIY if you’re unsure.

• Don’t reverse polarity or allow clamps to touch; this can destroy sensitive control modules.
• Don’t jump a visibly damaged, bulging, or frozen battery.
• No open flames or smoking near batteries; hydrogen gas can ignite.
• Don’t push-start modern automatics; it can damage the drivetrain.
• Never connect to an EV’s high-voltage system; use only the 12‑volt posts described by the manufacturer.

When in doubt, wait for a professional—repairs from a misstep can far outweigh the cost of a service call.

How to be ready next time

A bit of preparation can turn a breakdown into a brief delay.

• Carry a compact lithium jump starter and quality 4–6 gauge cables at least 12 feet long.
• Add roadside assistance to your insurance or join an auto club; store the number in your phone and glovebox.
• Install your insurer, automaker, or auto club app for one-tap location sharing.
• Know your car’s jump points and battery location; bookmark the manual section.
• Track battery age; many 12‑volt batteries last 3–5 years under typical conditions.

Prepared drivers resolve most battery issues in minutes and avoid towing altogether.

Costs and timing

Expect variability by location, time, and provider, but some ranges are common.

• Auto clubs/manufacturer programs: Often included; may charge if outside coverage limits.
• Insurance roadside add-ons: Typically low-cost per year; jump-starts usually covered with a service call cap.
• Pay-per-use dispatch or local tow: Commonly $50–$120; after-hours surcharges are possible.
• Freeway service patrols: Free where available, during operating hours.

ETAs are commonly 20–60 minutes; severe weather, remote areas, or rush hour can extend waits. If time-sensitive, ask the dispatcher for the best available option and an updated ETA.

Summary

For a dead battery, call roadside assistance you already have (AAA, insurer, or automaker), or a local tow/roadside service if you don’t. In garages or campuses, building or campus security often carries jump packs. On highways, prioritize safety and call 911 if you feel at risk; many regions also run free freeway patrols accessible via 511. Friends can help in safe areas, but when in doubt—especially with EVs or modern electronics—choose a professional jump-start to avoid damage, and consider carrying a portable jump starter to prevent future delays.

How much is it to get someone to jump start a car?

Car Jump Start Service From £70
Our qualified battery technicians are available 24/7 to perform reliable jump starts for cars, vans, and more. We cover London, Essex, Kent, Surrey, and across the UK via our trusted network.

Can I call the police to jump start my car?

If your vehicle is stranded and you’re in an emergency situation where you believe your safety is at risk then yes, you can definitely call the police to help jump-start your car.

Who can I call if I need jumper cables?

Your AAA roadside assistance provider will connect a jumper box to your car’s battery. Your battery has positive and negative terminals — a AAA professional will attach the cables correctly to each one.

How much does it cost to have someone jump start your car?

Answer: A jump start for a dead car battery or discharged battery on average can cost anywhere from $60 to $100. Now when it comes to jump starting bigger vehicles such as diesel pickup trucks with multiple batteries or semi-trucks that could have 4 batteries the prices do go up a bit.