Planning a Summer Road Trip and Massachusetts Auto Insurance
When preparing for a road trip, either with family or friends, it pays to invest in a routine maintenance check on your vehicle. There is nothing worse than just getting a couple of hundred miles away from home only to discover that something isn’t functioning properly. A flat tire, bad brakes, a worn hose – all can spell disaster when you head out on the road for some summer fun. Make sure that your Massachusetts auto insurance policy is up to date. Check with your local agent to find out if your New Bedford auto insurance policy covers rental cars and if there are any insurance options for your other travel needs. You can get a free auto insurance quote in MA from Borden Insurance Agency.
Get an Inspection from a Trusted Mechanic
Whether you like going to the dealership or prefer a local shop, make sure to bring your vehicle in for the basics ahead of your trip. If you are due for an oil change, flush and fill, or any other type of service now is the time to get it done. Auto insurance in New Bedford, MA, covers things like theft and collision but will not protect you from your own maintenance negligence. Make sure to get everything checked, including the mechanical and electrical parts of the vehicle, to ensure that everything is running as it should. Check the tires to ensure that they are filled up with air according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and that they are in good condition.
Check all of the fluids, including the windshield cleaner, coolant, and brakes, so you don’t drive yourself into trouble with the hot summer weather. Have the battery tested, and be sure to replace your windshield wipers if they are getting worn. If any filters need to be replaced, such as the air filter, oil filter, or cabin air filter, be sure to do it ahead of your trip, as well. Check all the lights, the HVAC system, and take a good look at all belts and hoses, which can be under extra stress in high temperatures. Once you have had your vehicle looked at by a trusted mechanic – or inspected carefully by yourself – and all repairs, replacements, and work has been done, you can have the peace of mind in knowing that you took care of everything ahead of time.
Check All Documents & Records
Another way to prepare your vehicle for a trip is to make sure that you have all the documents and records you might need while you are away from home. While having your proof of insurance on your phone is a nice idea and a great way to have it within reach, it is also a good idea to have a printed copy, just in case. You don’t want to get pulled over in a remote area with no cell signal and have no way of proving your insurance coverage. You will also need to have proof of registration and make sure that your driver’s license is up to date, as well.
Meet with your agent to discuss your Massachusetts auto insurance coverage, so you know what to expect. If you only have the minimum liability insurance, as required with a New Bedford auto insurance policy, you might want to at least add emergency assistance or roadside coverage to protect you in the event of an emergency. We can offer a free auto insurance quote in MA to help you keep your coverage in order and current for the best prices and protection for your vehicle. Update any changes that may have occurred since your last policy update just to make sure nothing gets overlooked for your auto insurance in New Bedford, MA.
Have a Plan for Your Trip
Consider creating a plan for travel and share it with a friend or loved one in case anything were to happen. It’s a good idea for someone to know where you are going, when you should arrive, and when you are expected to return. Have the number of your Massachusetts auto insurance agent handy in case of emergency, and consider creating a trip kit with water bottles, first aid, road flares, healthy snacks, sunscreen, extra phone battery packs, and anything else you might need should you become stranded. Contact Borden Insurance about your New Bedford auto insurance policy by calling 508-999-3636.