Planning a road trip takes time. You have to map out your route, find places to stay, make sure you have ample supplies and plenty of gas in the tank before heading out. But does your road trip insurance have what it takes to keep you covered on your journey? Even if you’re just taking a day trip across Ohio, here are some things you should consider:
What Should My Road Trip Insurance Policy Cover?
Your policy should at least have the minimum amount of liability coverage required by state law. Most well-rounded policies should keep you covered, but there are still some things to take into consideration.
Comprehensive coverage: This protects you against vandalism, theft and acts of God. Important to have when you’re visiting new places and driving through new elements like rugged state parks or windy mountain roads.
Roadside assistance: As a AAA member, you’re already covered, but adding this to your insurance policy can provide an extra layer of protection should you need help.
Uninsured motorists: This will pay for damages if you’re involved in an accident with someone who is uninsured. While most people have insurance, you can’t bank on everyone having it. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
State lines: All car insurance works across state lines but traveling to Mexico or Canada may impact the effectiveness of your coverage. Give your agent a call if you’re traveling across the border to see if it will impact your coverage.
Other drivers: If you’re going to be letting someone else drive your car, make sure your insurance will cover any damages if an accident occurs. Always make sure that the driver has insurance as well.
Do I Need Rental Car Insurance?
There are also some things to consider if you’re renting a car for your trip. Your insurance may overlap with rental car insurance depending on the coverage you have, but you should make sure. Take a look at your coverage to see where you’re covered or where there are gaps that need to be filled in.
There are certain coverages that rental car companies typically offer if you feel you need some extra protection:
Liability Coverage: If you have minimal coverage on your own auto insurance policy, you can purchase this from the rental car company to help boost your insurance to cover more damages.
Collision Damage Waiver: Also known as a loss damage waiver, this means the rental car company will not come after you for compensation if there is any damage or theft of the rental vehicle.
Personal Accident Insurance: This will cover the medical costs of you or anyone else in the car who is injured during an accident. If your insurance does not include Medical Payments coverage, or if your coverage amount is low, you may want to consider purchasing this.
Personal Effects Coverage: This will pay for belongings stolen from your car up to a set dollar amount. If you have a homeowners or renters insurance policy, it will cover your stolen possessions even if the theft occurs away from home. If you don’t have this coverage, personal effects coverage may be an important thing to add.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Ultimately, it’s up to you whether or not to buy road trip travel insurance, but the short answer is that it’s never a bad idea. Travel insurance can help cover the cost of your trip if it’s interrupted or canceled for some unforeseen reason like an accident or inclement weather. It can also cover otherwise non-refundable fees that you may have paid for your trip. For a small percent of the cost of your trip, travel insurance can help protect you from losses, so it’s always an important thing to consider when planning your journey.
Is Your Insurance Road Trip Ready?
If you’re unsure about your road trip travel insurance or have questions, it’s always best to speak with an agent before setting out. This will make sure you and your insurance are ready for the trip ahead!