Protect Your Fun in the Sun

When temperatures rise, opportunities for fun heat up. There is so much to do in spring and summer, including road trips with friends and family, pool time and outdoor adventures.

However, with more activity and travel comes an increased risk of accident or injury. But without the proper insurance coverage—auto insurance, homeowners insurance and umbrella insurance—these incidents could cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills.

Here are a few tips to help ensure you have the right insurance protection for your warm-weather escapades.

Review your auto insurance coverage before hitting the road.

The road trip is practically an American tradition. As the weather warms, millions of people will explore the nation by car. But before you start mapping out your route, experts recommend reviewing your auto insurance coverage. Here are a few things to consider.

• Policy particulars: Driving across state lines? Auto insurance minimum requirements vary by state, but most require bodily injury liability, property damage liability and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Knowing what your policy does and doesn’t cover can help you make any necessary policy changes to keep you protected.
• Fill the gap: If you owe more for your car than it’s actually worth, you may want to consider gap insurance. In the event of an accident, this policy is designed to help cover the difference between the loan and the vehicle’s value.
• RV or camper: If you plan to travel by RV or camper, you’ll need separate recreational vehicle insurance. 

Get rental protection wherever you journey.

Many people opt to put the wear and tear of a road trip on a rental car, not their personal vehicle. Keep in mind, however, that your auto insurance policy might not extend to your rental car. Check with your agent to see what is and isn’t covered.

And what about protection in the event a trip gets canceled or interrupted? Travel insurance can help you recoup expenses should your plans change unexpectedly.

Keep the backyard fun flowing.

On sunny days, the great outdoors beckons, and for many families, there’s plenty of adventure to be had right at home.

A backyard pool can be a great hangout on a hot day, but it can also be dangerous, particularly for children, pets and people who can’t swim. And what if someone gets hurt while jumping on a trampoline in your backyard?

Pools, trampolines and swing sets can be hidden dangers. In the insurance world, they’re considered attractive nuisances, meaning that while they’re a lot of fun, they also offer an increased risk of an accident.

Should an unthinkable accident occur, your insurance coverage can be the first line of defense. Consider the ways an umbrella insurance policy through AAA can give you peace of mind.