While summer break is winding down, there’s still time for a last minute road trip before Labor Day–the official end of summer. But before you get on the highway for that final getaway, the NAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners) wants to make sure you’re aware of what your auto insurance covers if you happen to have trouble on the road.
According to an April 2011 NAIC survey, 40 percent of Americans incorrectly believe their car insurance will cover the replacement of personal items stolen from their vehicle and one-third of Americans believe their auto insurance automatically covers a rental car.
To help overcome these misconceptions, the NAIC has five tips for a stress-free road trip.
Tips for a Stress-free Road Trip
1. Confirm your car insurance is active and premiums are up-to-date. Have a current copy of your insurance card in the car.
2. Check to see if your policy includes roadside assistance. You can be covered for towing, fuel delivery, lockout service, jump-starts and more.
3. If renting a car, check if your current policy includes coverage, and verify limitations with your agent. Some credit cards offer rental coverage, so check with your credit card company to determine if that is an option.
4. If rental car coverage is not included in your policy, consider adding an insurance rider for a small fee or purchasing coverage from the rental car company. Make sure you don’t duplicate benefits from your existing auto, health or home insurance policy.
5. Verify your homeowners or renters insurance covers the theft of personal items from your vehicle, especially if you are planning to carry expensive items in your car such as golf clubs, video or digital cameras or laptops.
Additionally, it never hurts to have the number of a good car accident injury attorney in Los Angeles in case of fender-benders on the road. You never know when you will need help, and not having to search for a lawyer will save time and money.
