The holiday season means it’s time to travel! Whether you’re driving just a few miles down the road or embarking on a major cross-country trip, the end-of-year holidays are notoriously one of the busiest travel times. This means crowded highways, potential winter weather challenges, and the need for extra caution.
At American Insurance Center in Cumberland, MD, we know that arriving safely is the most important part of your holiday gathering. A little preparation now can prevent major headaches—and potential insurance claims—later. Use these holiday travel safety tips to assist you and your loved ones in arriving safely and prepared this Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Automotive Check-Up: Your Pre-Trip Maintenance List
A reliable vehicle is your first defense against travel delays. Before you leave Cumberland, MD, perform a thorough check of your car. This small investment in time can prevent a costly roadside breakdown.
- Tires: Check the pressure (including the spare!) and look for signs of wear. Proper inflation is critical for both safety and fuel efficiency.
- Fluids: Top off or change your oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Ensure your wipers are in good condition—you never know when a rain or snow squall might hit.
- Battery: Have your battery tested, especially if it’s more than a few years old. Cold weather is notorious for revealing a weak battery.
- Emergency Contact: Save the number for your roadside assistance program directly onto your phone. Knowing you have immediate help available is key.
- Strategic Route Planning and Driver Wellness
Holiday traffic is often unpredictable. Don’t rely solely on a last-minute GPS check; dedicate time to mapping out your journey.
- Primary and Secondary Routes: Use navigation apps to scout your route days ahead for construction or known bottlenecks. Identify an alternate (backup) route in case of a major accident or closure.
- Scheduled Stops: If you are driving long-distance, do not push through fatigue. Plan to take a mandatory break every two to three hours. Get out of the car, stretch your legs, and grab a meal or coffee to refresh your focus. Driver fatigue is a leading cause of accidents.
- Smart Packing for Emergency Readiness
Packing smart means preparing for both the destination and the journey itself. Organize your essentials so they are easily accessible, especially if you get stranded.
- Essentials Kit: Keep a kit in your car with non-perishable snacks, ample water, a powerful flashlight, jumper cables, and a comprehensive first aid kit.
- Device Power: Pack multiple phone chargers and a portable power bank. Communication is vital in an emergency.
- Winter Gear (if applicable): If traveling in or through areas prone to cold, include blankets, warm gloves, a small shovel, and a bag of kitty litter or sand for tire traction.
- Focused Driving: Avoiding Distractions
Safe driving demands your full attention. Distraction is one of the quickest ways to turn a routine drive into a stressful situation requiring an auto insurance claim.
- Hands-Free Only: Set your GPS destination, adjust your climate control, and get your playlist ready before you put the car in drive. Once you’re on the road, keep your phone put away.
- Designated Co-Pilot: If you have passengers, delegate tasks like navigating, handling snacks, or answering non-urgent calls to them.
- Stay Present: Remember that unexpected stops, merges, and slowdowns are common during the holidays. Keep a safe following distance and focus solely on the road ahead.
- Confirming Your Auto Insurance Coverage
Before you leave the Cumberland, MD area, it is always a smart move to review your auto insurance policy. This is especially important if your travel plans involve a non-standard vehicle.
- Rental Car Coverage: Many standard personal auto policies extend coverage to rental vehicles, but this is not universally true, and the extent of coverage can vary. Contact American Insurance Center to confirm exactly what your policy covers before you sign any rental agreement.
- Out-of-State Travel: If you are driving across state lines, confirm your policy provides adequate liability and physical damage coverage wherever you go.
Don’t let worry overshadow your holidays. By taking these simple steps, you are actively managing your risk and ensuring a successful journey.
American Insurance Center is proud to serve Cumberland, MD, and the surrounding area. We can help you secure the right home and auto insurance to protect your assets all year round.
Do you have questions about your current auto policy or need to add car rental coverage before your trip?