Summers in the United States call for breaks and frequent road trips. According to one report, Memorial Day road trips increased by 6% in 2023, with over 37.1 million Americans driving to their destinations. 

However, when it comes to traffic accidents, Americans have been hit worse than usual. According to one source, the country witnesses around 12.40 road deaths per 100k people. This is a serious concern, especially for a nation that’s perpetually on the road.

Numerous reports have noted that novice drivers, making videos, drinking and driving, and speeding are some of the major contributing factors to these collisions. 

Americans will need more than seatbelts and good navigation to travel safely this summer. Apart from following the basic rules of road safety, proper insurance is required to avoid financial hardship because of these accidents.

Essential Insurance Coverage for Road Trips in the Summer

Auto Insurance

Whether you drive a commercial or personal vehicle, auto insurance is essential and even required in some states. Before you hit the road, double-check the validity and coverage of your auto insurance as the foremost step. 

An auto insurance policy can help cover the costs of medical emergencies caused by a car accident, vehicle replacement or repair work, and legal proceedings. Apart from that, auto insurance can help you pay for any theft or vandalism that occurs to your vehicle while travelling in unfamiliar territory. Any natural disaster that damages your vehicle, such as a landslide, building or tree collapse due to an earthquake, and so on, are also covered by a correct auto insurance policy.

The cost of your auto insurance is determined by a number of factors. This includes but is not limited to vehicle model, driving history, registration location (state-specific), credit history, deductibles involved, and so on. After considering all of these factors, a premium is determined based on the level of coverage that is required and necessary for you.

Liability Insurance

Apart from self-harm or damage that can occur while on the road, vehicle collisions can result in numerous liabilities in terms of damage caused to someone’s property, vehicle, or people themselves. 

As such, liability insurance coverage is divided into bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage. In all such liability-based cases, the person who suffers any kind of damage files a claim, and the driver is responsible for paying any bills. Liability insurance can help pay for home repairs, vehicle repairs, hospital/medical bills, mental anguish claims, litigation fees, and so on.

Again, the premium for liability insurance is largely determined by your driving history, any previous similar cases, the age of the vehicle, and so on. An exact valuation can only be determined after a thorough portfolio analysis of one’s history and vehicle condition. 

Travel Insurance or Accident Insurance

It is critical to have travel insurance when you are on the road. This type of insurance provides comprehensive coverage against any medical emergency or similar issues. For example, if a person becomes ill while travelling, they can receive free medical attention, evacuation, travel assistance, supplies, and lodging. 

In the worst-case scenario, travel insurance can provide coverage to the policyholder’s family if the individual dies while travelling. Because each travel insurance policy is unique, these coverages should be chosen based on the level of travel and its difficulty, as well as the overall needs.

Although travel insurance is applicable to anyone who travels by road or air, accident insurance is a better option for those who are travelling by car this summer. Every type of accidental issue is covered under this insurance policy, including rehabilitation, admission, disability provision, accidental death, and so on.

Besides, before you hit the road, you should consider purchasing Umbrella Insurance. This can be useful if you are travelling in a group or with a family and someone without insurance drives the car and causes an accident. In such cases, extended policies such as umbrella insurance can be an excellent way to protect yourself from financial or legal liabilities.

How To Stay Safe on the Road?

Here are some helpful tips for staying safe on the road, even if you have adequate insurance coverage.

• Do not forget to get a thorough car inspection done before you hit the road.
• Try not to give your car to someone (especially children) whose driving you do not trust.
• Invest in devices such as phone holders or rear-view cameras to assist you on the road and to record your driving in case you need to prove your innocence later.
• Always keep a medical kit close for minor emergencies.
• For all-around protection, keep an eye on the fluid systems, cooling systems, tires, and so on.

Summer vacations are highly longed-for, but staying safe on the road is critical. With people often driving recklessly, it is critical to take precautionary measures to stay safe. Before you hit the road, it is a good idea to have all of your insurance coverage reviewed and re-checked by a specialized insurance provider. This aids in closing gaps and providing appropriate coverage as needed. Contact Gonzalez Insurance for more information on risk assessments and portfolio analysis.