Keys To Great Holiday Travel

Are you planning a trip during the holiday season?  If you’ll be hitting the road over the next few weeks (or anytime really!), here are a few important things to keep in mind.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE TOWN:

•       Get your oil changed and make sure your tires are properly aired up.

•       Leave some lights on in your home so it doesn’t look empty at night.

•       Ask a neighbor or friend to pick up your mail or newspaper. 

•       Pack some snacks!  No one wants to be driving hungry (especially if you’ve got little kids riding in the back seat!) 

•       Pack a car charger for your cell phone.  Your phone is is your map and your emergency contact.  Don’t let it run out of battery power on your trip!

•       If you’ll be traveling in snow or ice, make sure to pack emergency supplies in your vehicle.

•       Plan to travel on off-peak days.  It will mean less traffic, less stress, and a faster route to your destination.

•       Get a good night’s sleep!  Driving fatigued is a leading cause of accidents.  Stay rested. 

DURING YOUR DRIVE:

•       Wear your seat belt!  Always.

•       Keep your gas tank at least half full.  You never know how long it could be between gas stations or how bad the traffic could be.  Don’t run on empty! 

And above all…be flexible!  Travel stress can ruin your holiday fun.  Plan to take your time and enjoy the ride!  

What is Rental Reimbursement Coverage (And Do You Really Need It)?

As you look through your auto policy documents, you might have seen a coverage called Rental Reimbursement.  What is this?  And do you REALLY need it? 

Basically Rental Reimbursement coverage is there to help you when your car is unavailable due to a covered claim. 

Let’s say that you had a fender bender and your car is in the shop for a few days getting a new bumper.  Or after a major storm, you’ve got hail damage that needs to be repaired.

While the car is being repaired, what will you drive? 

That’s where Rental coverage comes into play.  With this coverage, the insurance company will pay a certain amount per day (based on your policy) towards a rental car.  That way, you’re not inconvenienced while the repairs are being made. 

We highly recommend that you have this coverage, however there are a few situations where it might not be necessary.

If you own multiple vehicles and could easily drive another while your car is in the shop, you may not need rental coverage.  And if you rarely drive your vehicle, don’t have a job that requires you to drive daily, and could easily stay home for a week and walk where you need to go, you may not need rental coverage either.

If you’re not sure what’s best for you, then give us a call to discuss exactly how much the coverage will cost you each month and what different levels are available.  We look forward to helping you choose the right insurance coverage!