Road Trip! The Ultimate Checklist to Ensure You’re Safe and Covered
Nearly half of all Americans take a summer vacation and the most popular option, chosen by 76% of travelers in the United States, is by road rather than by air. In fact, over 35 million people are estimated to travel by car for the July 4th holiday alone. Additionally, one fourth of travelers take 3 or more trips throughout the summer.
Road trips are a terrific way for family and friends to share time together and have opportunities to see more along the way, while allowing for more flexible scheduling. Unfortunately, automobile breakdowns, accidents and other difficulties can occur, so planning is vital. It’s important to take precautions to avoid problems and have a plan for the unexpected or unavoidable. Following these tips can help you have a safe and happy road trip:
- Before setting out on your trip, be sure to let someone know your plans and itinerary
- Obtaining and using a GPS will keep you from having to ask for directions and it may be able to advise you on shorter routes or how to avoid traffic jams. When GPS can’t pinpoint your location or reception is poor, a state map or atlas can come in handy.
- Ask a passenger to act as the designated texter or caller to avoid being distracted while driving.
- Plan routes and reserve your accommodations in advance when possible. Roads may be busy during popular travel times. Consider leaving earlier or later to avoid traffic.
- Ensure your car is properly maintained by servicing your battery, checking your air conditioning, tire condition and air pressure. If needed, get a wheel rotation and alignment. Check windshield wiper fluid and inspect belts, hoses and fluids. Change the oil and filter if it’s timely. Do periodic checks of these things along the way.
- Bring an emergency roadside kit, which includes a cell phone with a car charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, drinking water, snacks for all travelers and any pets, battery cables, and emergency flares or reflectors. It’s also a great idea to include some paper goods such as paper towels, tissues and toilet paper.
- Be sure to bring important documents including drivers license, registration, automobile insurance card, roadside assistance information, emergency medical information and contacts, and hotel reservation information. Be prepared with some cash or travelers checks and credit cards.
Always check your car insurance policy before you leave to make sure you have adequate coverage and if your policy doesn’t include roadside assistance, you may want to add it. A trusted insurance agent can advise you about appropriate automobile insurance limits and deductibles for:
- Collision (which covers loss or damage due to an accident)
- Comprehensive (coverage in the event of car theft or natural disaster)
- Liability (which covers injuries caused to another person or property)
It may also be a great time to review your homeowners or renters policy for coverage in the event of theft of items from your automobile. Additionally, your insurance agent can advise you about car rental insurance should you plan to drive a rental, travel insurance, health and life insurance.
It’s important to be prepared when you’re going on a road trip and we can assist you in evaluating your insurance needs. For additional help with your car insurance policy, contact Pettineo Insurance Agency today at (954) 493-9424 or visit www.pettineo.comfor a free quote.
Pettineo Insurance Agency Inc. provides car insurance coverage in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, North Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Tamarac, Plantation, Lighthouse Point and all of Florida. As an independent agent we represent many top rated companies in both the personal and commercial lines. We place your policy with the company offering the best coverage at a reasonable price. We offer a complete line of personal, commercial, life and health insurance products, designed exclusively for your insurance needs. Serving South Florida for almost 30 years, Pettineo Insurance offers the highly personalized service and stability that you should expect from your insurance agent.
