From the below, and other writings that I have seen, it is my understanding that the emergency response (SOS) feature and the capability to transmit tracks and location emails to people with whom you have chosen to share this information are two different features. The emergency response system (SOS feature) always works whether you are paying for the additional tracking feature or not.
What I haven't seen written anywhere is whether or not it will automatically send an SOS signal using crash detection software. It would be nice to know this because it isn't always going to be a situation where the user involved in an incident retains the ability to push the SOS button.
They have done a poor job in describing it's capabilities in my opinion.
I have read of several peole on this forum who use the Garmin inReach system. Certainly they would be able to tell us.
Like all inReach devices, a user can hit the SOS button in case of emergency that sends a distress signal to GEOS®, a 24/7 International Emergency Response Coordination Center. GEOS will track the device which triggered the SOS, notify the proper contacts, and send the necessary emergency responders to the exact location. GEOS will deliver a confirmation that help is on the way and also continually update the user on the status of the response team. GEOS will also reach out to the user’s emergency contact and alert them of the situation.