Importance Of Reviewing Your Car Insurance Before A Road Trip

Posted on: 1 March 2017

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If you're planning an upcoming road trip, there are likely many things on your checklist of things to do—including making sure that your vehicle has been inspected and is operating properly. One thing that you'll definitely want to remember to check is that your auto insurance is completely up to date. Paying the monthly premiums doesn't mean that the entire policy is the best one for you. Roadside assistance is an added feature to your policy that can range from minimal towing assistance to car rental services. Now is the time to inspect your policy to make sure that the roadside assistance portion is up to date.

Tire Services

There is never a good time for a flat tire. But be assured that a flat tire is more likely to happen when you're far away from home or venturing out on a family road trip. If the weather is bad or you're just unable to change out a flat tire yourself, you can rely on roadside assistance to come to you and get you back on the road safely. Most roadside assistance programs offer tire services such as:

Replacing a flat tire

Adding air pressure to a low tire

Providing a jack and other tire changing tools

If you're having tire issues and are just unsure what the culprit is, a roadside pro will come and evaluate the situation. If your vehicle is not driveable, he will arrange for towing and a rental car if needed. Ask your insurance agent now about what type of coverage you have for tire assistance and care. 

Towing And Winching

One of the biggest services that most people rely on with their roadside assistance is towing. If you're on a road trip and far from home, a towing service will be a lifesaver if you happen to breakdown alongside of the road. Not only can they help tow your vehicle to the nearest service station, they can also pull your vehicle out of the ditch if need be. Be sure to ask your insurance agent if you have winching coverage with your tow package. This can save you time and hassle, especially if you have small children and other passengers with you.

Battery Jumps

Are you at the campground or hotel? Are you all ready to depart but your truck won't start? Calling your roadside assistance group to come out and jump start your battery, will have you back on the road in no time. When updating your insurance policy before vacation departure, be sure to add this coverage to your plan. It may cost more to add winching, battery assistance and tire maintenance, but it can save you hundreds in the long run as well as wasted time and stress.

Car Rental

Some insurance companies have a waiting period before roadside assistance can become effective on your policy. Keep this in mind as you update or confirm coverage with your agent. A very important component of your plan should include car rental services. Car rental is vital, especially if you're unable to have someone pick you up in the event of an auto accident or engine failure. Choosing the full car rental package, will take the guesswork out of picking up a car at the towing company. Most coverage allows the agent to drop the car off to you, with minimal hassle, so that you can proceed to your vacation destination or home.

Having an updated policy is vital to have in place weeks before your road trip departure date. This allows you enough time to budget and make the necessary changes to your policy. For more information, contact companies like Parkway Wrecker Service.