After packing the car, rounding up the kids, and hitting the road, insurance shouldn’t be stressing you out. Making sure that some common insurance-related considerations are sorted out before your departure will help you to have a smooth and relaxing time on the road.
Auto Insurance Coverage
Prior to departure, consider contacting your insurance agent to review your auto insurance policy and your current coverages. Consider how many passengers will be in the car with you and who will be driving. Ask your insurance agent to verify whether your policy follows you out of state. If you believe that your current policy may not offer enough coverage under the circumstances, you can consider purchasing additional coverage or an umbrella policy.
Car Maintenance
Taking your car to your mechanic for a quick check-up before your trip is not a bad idea. Make sure to verify with your mechanic that your car fluid is at appropriate levels and your car’s engine is in suitable condition. Be sure to also verify whether your tires should be rotated and be sure to check the pressure of your tires.
Rental Cars
If you’re renting a car for your grand adventure, it’s important to understand the insurance implications of that before you depart. Car rental companies may encourage you to purchase insurance through them; however, that may not be necessary. Ask your insurance agent whether your auto policy may afford coverage for rental cars. if you have comprehensive and collision coverage on your auto policy those same deductibles may apply to a rented vehicle. You may have ‘rental vehicle coverage’ included on your policy but this coverage generally applies if you are unable to use your vehicle due to an accident or event. Check with your insurance provider to understand the scope of your specific policy.
Roadside Assistance
If your car breaks down, then having roadside assistance may be valuable. Many companies offer this service. Check with your auto insurance company to see if roadside assistance is something that you can add to your policy if you don’t have it already. You should also be aware of the limitations of the service that you buy and exactly how far the towing company may tow your car or if your coverage may provide you with a rental car while yours is inoperable.
Stolen Items
If your car gets broken into, your auto insurance comprehensive coverage may cover the damages subject to coverage limits. If items from your car are stolen, then your homeowner’s insurance policy may cover those losses under your personal property coverage. Your homeowner’s insurance may only cover certain items, such as jewelry or electronics, up to a certain limit, so it is important to talk to your insurance agent to understand how much coverage may be provided for your items while they are away from your residence. When you leave your car, be sure to take all your items with you so that they won’t be taken if someone breaks in.
Safety First
Be sure to take preventative measures to help minimize risks on the road:
- Always wear your seatbelt as this could save your life.
- Pay attention to speed limits and keep enough distance between you and the car in front of you.
- Avoid distracted driving. Don’t check your phone when you’re behind the wheel, and the passengers in the car should refrain from disturbing the driver.
- Drivers should be well-rested when behind the wheel. If needed, take turns driving so that the driver is always alert.
Do what you can to make your road trip as enjoyable as it can be by being prepared. Road trips are a great way to see the country and spend quality time with family and friends, and there could be some serendipitous moments just around the corner!
Call InsuraMatch today at 844-282-6808 and speak to an agent about how your insurance can help protect you on a road trip!