The fall season’s right around the corner, and you know what that means – time for a road trip! Enjoy a stress-free travel experience with the best insurance coverage for your car. Simple advice: sort out your car insurance before you travel. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top tips on road trip car insurance just for you! So, whether you’re deciding to add roadside assistance or updating your insurance coverage just before you head out, we’ve got you covered! Read on to know more.
Standard Insurance Policies
Let’s get the basics out of the way – you purchase car insurance to cover any damage to yourself or your car while driving. A standard insurance policy provides you coverage across every state in America and, what’s more, rises to meet the legal limits of any other state you’re driving in. Though auto insurance is mandatory in most states, New Hampshire and Virginia don’t require car insurance, instead, you can provide sufficient records to show that you are financially capable to incur the own damage or third-party losses. Even if it is not mandatory in your state, it is highly recommended that you have a minimum standard car insurance plan in place.
Cross-Border Coverage
If you are planning a cross-border road trip (for example, Canada or Mexico), it is best to purchase coverage from car insurance companies that include America’s neighboring countries. It’s always a good idea to call your insurer to verify your international coverage status before getting on the open road, however. Some of the more affordable insurance policies may not extend their coverage to Mexico and Canada, so check ahead. Opt for car insurance for your overseas travel..
Add Roadside Assistance
You never know when you could be stuck on the interstate with a flat tire or, worse, close to running out of fuel. That’s where roadside assistance comes to your aid. Some policies include roadside assistance services, while others have them as add-ons for an additional price. Get temporary roadside cover before your road trip. This coverage is ideal when you’re stuck on a deserted highway or at a motel with a cold engine that won’t start. Getting roadside assistance is definitely worth the few extra dollars. A single claim will more than make up for the amount spent!
Consider Increasing Your Coverage
Although it isn’t common practice to adjust your auto insurance coverage before you go on a road trip, it sure will give you peace of mind! If you’re the kind of person who works from home and ends up spending little time on the road in general, it might be a good idea to opt for increased coverage while on your road trip. The minimum coverage (the average is around $5,000) is hardly enough to cover even minor collision costs, so think twice before you skip on that opportunity to increase your coverage.
Road Trip Insurance Coverage Options
You might want to consider these options when looking for road trip insurance:
- Collision Coverage: Collision coverage covers any damage borne by your vehicle in the case of any accidents. If you happen to be involved in an unfortunate accident and don’t have collision coverage, the insurance company will not be able to compensate you for any losses incurred. Make sure you get yourself covered!
- Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage aims to protect you from a host of possible situations like theft, environmental damage, and vandalism. The insurance company will honor your claim if your car is stolen.
- Roadside Assistance: It is most definitely worth the extra dollars spent. Adding roadside assistance will protect you from pesky car lockouts, flat tires, and fuel delivery.
- Trip Insurance: Many insurance companies offer travel or trip-specific insurance. It is an ideal option if your trip gets canceled at the last minute. These trip-specific insurance policies come with included roadside assistance services.
Final Verdict
It is entirely up to you whether to renew or upgrade your car insurance before your road trip. Some people choose to have sufficient coverage throughout the road trip. Some others feel the need to upgrade their coverage plan. If you’re going on a road trip to a new and unfamiliar state, auto insurance limits will increase to match the minimum legal limits in the state you’re traveling to. Don’t forget to check your policy or call your insurance provider to upgrade your insurance coverage before your road trip!
Renée Martin is a travel and car expert who focuses on road and air travel in the U.S. For the past 6 years, she’s been helping make driving and trip planning easier and budget-friendly for everyday travelers.
