Is calling AER directly faster than going through AAA or my insurance?

Almost always, yes. AAA and insurance-dispatched tows route through a national call center that queues your request and then searches for an available local provider. That handoff adds 20–40 minutes before a Miami truck is even assigned. Calling AER at 305-796-6018 goes straight to local dispatch — no queue, no middleman. Many customers pay out of pocket and then submit for insurance reimbursement, which often costs the same or less while getting faster service.