Heading Out on a Summer Road Trip?

The open road, rest stops, and the scent of nature- road trips! It’s summer and that means no ice on the roads! It’s time to take that trip down the coast, on the scenic state route, or through the mountains.

One important thing to consider before setting off – insurance. Is the vehicle that you are driving on this journey properly covered? Many have auto insurance coverage; however, making sure that the coverage is proper and adequate is necessary before leaving home for the road. 

Is Special Road Trip Insurance Needed before Hitting the Road?

You don’t need special insurance for your car, you just have to be sure that your car is properly insured and covered. Many states have different liability limits so, you want to be sure that your current coverage meets the minimum requirements in the state(s) that you’ll be traveling to and through. When discussing with your Ruffcorn agent, ask if the broadening clause is necessary and available to you (this allows you to extend your liability coverage, temporarily, up to the limits of the state(s) you’ll be visiting). 

So many things can happen, like hitting a pothole, a rock cracking your windshield, or locking your keys in the car while you get out and stretch. You should consider coverage that will extend for these types of incidents. 

What If I Am Driving A Rental Vehicle on The Road Trip?

Coverage is needed. Whether yours transfers over or, you purchase coverage from the rental company, coverage will be necessary. Keep in mind that if your auto insurance coverage limits are lower than the value of the vehicle, anything owed comes from you. 

Here’s an example, you have a policy that covers $30,000 in damages but the cost of damages is $40,000; your insurance policy will cover $30,000 but the other $10,000 is still owed to the rental company and would have to come directly from you. If your policy has lower limits, it is a really good idea to purchase extra coverage.  

Will My Credit Card Company Help with Insurance Coverage?

It’s possible. Many credit card companies offer benefits that may include auto insurance coverage of some sort. If you have a credit card, the best way to find out if they offer an auto benefits is to call customer service or review the benefit guide/guide to benefits provided by the credit card company. This type of coverage can vary by credit card companies.

What if It’s My Car but Multiple People Are Driving- Do They Need Road Trip Insurance?

If the car is yours and the other people driving are not on your policy, you should add them or make sure they too have an auto insurance policy. Same rule applies if it is some else’s car and you don’t have insurance; you’d need to get some, or they’d need to add you. Another option worth discussing with an insurance agent- a non-owner car insurance policy. These policies provide a certain level of coverage to drivers that don’t carry their own auto insurance.

Before getting on the road, take a few minutes to review your auto policy and reach out to one of our agents. We will make sure that you are properly covered s that you can enjoy the open road!