Getting Ready to Road Trip?

It’s summer and that means clear and clean roads, no ice! It’s time to jump in the car and take that trip! One important thing to consider though, is adequate car insurance to protect you while on that road trip.

Is the vehicle that you are using for this journey properly insured? Many have auto insurance coverage; however, coverage that meets state requirements and adequate for your financial security is necessary before jumping on the road. 

What is Road Trip Insurance, and Do I Need it?

There’s no need for special insurance, just adequate car insurance. Many states have different liability limits so, making sure that the auto insurance coverage meets the minimum requirements in the state(s) that you’ll be traveling to and through is important. When discussing with your agent, if necessary, ask about broadening clause (this allows you to extend your liability coverage, temporarily, up to the limits of the state(s) you’ll be visiting). 

A lot can happen out there on the open road, like a rock cracking your windshield, or locking your keys in the car. It’s important to have coverage that will cover these types of incidents. 

What If  The Vehicle on The Road Trip Is a Rental Vehicle?

Coverage is always required when renting a vehicle, the company requires it. Whether yours transfers over or, you purchase coverage from the rental company, it’s mandatory. Something to consider, if your auto insurance coverage limits are lower than the value of the vehicle, anything owed comes from out of your pocket- this is why protecting your financial security is important. 

Here’s an example, you have an auto insurance policy that covers $25,000 in damages but the cost of damages you caused in the accident is $35,000. The insurance policy will cover $25,000 but the other $10,000 that is still owed to the rental company- would come from you. 

Multiple People Are Driving on The Road Trip- Do They Need Their Own Insurance?

If the car is yours and the other people driving are not listed on your auto policy, they may need to have their own insurance or- you may need to add them to your policy. The same applies if it is someone else’s car and you don’t have your own policy. Check your policy before hitting the road and ask an insurance agent about whether a non-owner car insurance policy is necessary. These policies offer a certain coverage to drivers that don’t carry their own auto insurance.

I Have a Credit Card, Will that Company Help with Insurance Coverage?

Many credit card companies offer benefits that may include auto insurance coverage. The best way to find out if they offer any auto insurance benefits is to contact them or review the guide to benefits provided by the credit card company. Coverages vary and may look different for each credit card company.

This is a good time to review your auto policy and reach out to a TIA insurance agent. We will make sure that you have adequate coverage to protect you while on that road trip!