Whenever someone mentions AAA (“triple A”), it immediately condures up notions of travel maps and hotel ratings around the country. But AAA has evolved into a driving force in the automobile industry. From humble beginnings as a group of nine motor clubs in the Northeast and mid-west, AAA has come full circle to provide its members with premium coverage for all their automotive needs.

Established in 1902 as the American Automobile Association, the primary focus of the Association was to provide its members with roadmaps of highways and tourist destinations. Today, with its 51 member affiliates, AAA fulfills nearly all other motorist needs, from roadside assistance to full insurance coverage requirements.

Many insurance companies in America merely write insurance, but only AAA has over a century of service and experience in terms of programs for motorists and lobbying for their rights as drivers for both pleasure and commercial motoring. One such program is AAA’s commitment to driver education. Starting in 1935, its high school driver education programs have been providing training for young drivers on proper and responsible driving. In 1937, it took to the forefront once again by seeking to understand and address the needs of pedestrians as they interact with the motoring public. Key cities were recognized for their leadership in reducing accidents and fatalities resulting from motor vehicle collisions.

By the 1960’s, AAA drafted legislation for what would be known as the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966. This legislation established uniform standards for conformity in vehicle safety equipment and tires. In addition, vehicle safety inspection standards were established. Also contained in the Act were provisions for driver licensing; traffic courts; highway design, construction and maintenance; and traffic control devices.

With the exponential rise in vehicle theft in the 1980’s, AAA once again took the lead role, along with the Coalition to Halt Auto Theft, in drafting the Motor Vehicle Theft Law Enforcement Act of 1984. They were able to point out that vehicle theft was costing the motoring public millions of dollars a year in increased premiums.

Of course, the most attractive feature of having your automotive insurance needs met by AAA is the popular roadside assistance program. A quote for auto insurance coverage can be obtained online, via telephone, or by agent contact, thus making the rates highly competitive. Premiums can be easily transferred electronically and installment plans are available. Membership includes discounted rates on hotels, travel packages, financial services including foreign currency exchange, and discounts available through affiliate companies such as lens crafters.

For those traveling abroad, membership can mean a range of savings on travel services such as discounted hotel, airfare and cruise rates, and even assistance in obtaining an International Drivers Permit.

Overall, AAA provides one of the most complete and comprehensive services in the industry, and has for over a century been an industry leader in education and legislation designed to keep both American highways and travelers’ abroad safe and secure.