Preparing for Holiday Travel: Auto Insurance Tips When Hitting the Road

Hitting the Road for the Holidays? Make Sure Your Car Insurance is Ready

The holiday season is prime time for road trips, family visits, and festive adventures. Before you pack up the car and set your GPS, it’s crucial to review your car insurance in Newington, CT, to ensure you’re fully protected on the road. Increased traffic, unpredictable weather, and heightened risks of accidents and theft make comprehensive coverage more important than ever.

• Higher Accident Rates: Holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s see a spike in traffic accidents due to more vehicles on the road, distracted drivers, and challenging weather conditions.
• Increased Theft Risk: Vehicle thefts and break-ins rise during the holiday season, especially when cars are left unattended in unfamiliar locations.
• Unfamiliar Roads: Traveling to new destinations increases the likelihood of mishaps, making robust insurance coverage essential.

1. Review Your Coverage Before You Go

• Liability Insurance: Ensure your policy meets or exceeds Connecticut’s minimum requirements. This protects you if you’re found at fault in an accident.
• Collision and Comprehensive Coverage: These options cover damage from accidents, theft, vandalism, and weather-related incidents—risks that are heightened during holiday travel.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection: With nearly one in eight drivers uninsured, this coverage is vital if you’re hit by someone without adequate insurance.

2. Consider Additional Protections

• Roadside Assistance: Add this to your policy for peace of mind in case of breakdowns, flat tires, or lockouts far from home.
• Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
• Rental Car Coverage: If you plan to rent a car, confirm your policy extends to rentals or consider supplemental coverage.

3. Check Policy Details for Out-of-State or International Travel

• Geographical Restrictions: Some policies may have limitations if you’re driving out of state or into Canada or Mexico. Verify your coverage with your agent before crossing borders.

A well-maintained vehicle is just as important as the right insurance. Before you hit the road:

• Inspect and top off fluids (oil, coolant, brake, transmission).
• Check tire pressure and tread; replace worn tires.
• Test headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers for optimal visibility.
• Clean all windows and mirrors for clear sightlines.

• Avoid peak travel times and plan your route in advance.
• Stay alert and take breaks to prevent fatigue.
• Keep valuables out of sight to deter theft.
• Store your insurance ID card and emergency contacts in your glove box.

As your local experts in car insurance Newington CT, D.M. Johnson Insurance Agency is dedicated to helping you travel with confidence. We’ll review your policy, recommend the right coverage for your holiday plans, and answer all your questions—so you can focus on making memories, not worrying about “what ifs.”

Ready to review your car insurance before your holiday road trip? Contact D.M. Johnson Insurance Agency today for a personalized policy checkup and travel with peace of mind.