The holidays are right around the corner! For many families in Southwest Missouri, Thanksgiving means loading up the car, visiting relatives, and spending a little extra time on the road.
Before you head out, there’s one thing worth checking that probably isn’t on your holiday to-do list: your auto insurance coverage.
Whether you’re driving across Missouri or heading several states away, these five auto insurance road trip tips can help you prepare for your next trip.
1. Do I Have Enough Auto Insurance Coverage?
Most drivers know they have auto insurance, but not everyone knows exactly what their policy covers.
Liability insurance helps pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others in a covered accident. However, the minimum coverage required by law may not provide enough protection after a serious accident.
Before traveling, take a moment to review your liability limits and make sure they still fit your needs.
2. Does My Auto Insurance Include Roadside Assistance?
Nobody wants to spend Thanksgiving weekend sitting on the side of the highway with a flat tire or dead battery.
Roadside assistance may help with common problems such as towing, jump-starts, lockouts, and flat tires, depending on your policy.
Not every auto insurance policy includes this coverage, so it’s worth checking before you leave home.
3. Will My Auto Insurance Cover a Rental Car?
Planning to rent a vehicle for your holiday trip?
Your personal auto insurance may extend certain coverages to a rental car, but that doesn’t mean every expense is automatically covered.
Coverage can depend on your policy, the type of vehicle you’re renting, and how you’re using it. Rental companies may also charge fees that aren’t covered by your personal insurance.
Our advice: Check with your insurance agent before declining coverage at the rental counter.
For additional information, visit the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ auto insurance guide.
4. What Happens if I Hit a Deer?
Anyone who drives through Southwest Missouri knows that deer can be a real concern, especially during the fall.
Here’s something many drivers don’t realize: Damage from hitting a deer is generally covered under comprehensive coverage, not collision coverage.
If you only carry liability insurance, damage to your own vehicle from a deer collision generally won’t be covered.
It’s a good reminder to understand the difference between comprehensive and collision coverage before something happens.
5. What Should I Do if I’m Involved in an Accident Away From Home?
An accident is stressful enough without being hundreds of miles from home.
Before traveling, make sure you know how to access your insurance information and report a claim.
If an accident happens, prioritize everyone’s safety, contact emergency services when necessary, exchange information, and document the scene when it’s safe to do so.
It’s also a good idea to save your insurance agency’s contact information in your phone.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 309 people lost their lives in traffic crashes during the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday period, and 44% were not wearing seat belts.
It’s a sobering reminder that safe driving matters just as much as having the right insurance protection.
Before your next trip, check your tires, buckle up, avoid distractions, and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Insurance and Road Trips
Does my auto insurance cover me when driving out of state?
Generally, yes! Most personal auto insurance policies provide coverage when you’re driving in other states. However, coverage terms and limits can vary, so it’s always a good idea to review your policy before traveling.
Does liability insurance cover damage to my own vehicle?
No. Liability insurance generally covers injuries or property damage you cause to others, not damage to your own vehicle. Collision and comprehensive coverage provide protection for different types of damage to your vehicle, subject to your policy’s terms and deductibles.
More Auto Insurance Road Trip Tips From Smart Insurance
At Smart Insurance Agency, we believe understanding your coverage shouldn’t be complicated.
As an independent insurance agency serving Marionville and Southwest Missouri, we can help you review your current auto insurance, compare options, and make sure you understand the protection you’re paying for.
Whether you’re planning a holiday road trip or simply haven’t reviewed your policy in a while, we’re happy to help.
Contact Smart Insurance Agency to review your coverage before your next trip.
From all of us at Smart Insurance Agency, we wish you safe travels and a wonderful Thanksgiving!