Spring break is around the corner, and you’re ready to hit the road for an unforgettable getaway. But before you buckle up and set off, have you checked if your Massachusetts car insurance is ready for the unexpected? Many travelers assume their auto insurance policy will cover them during their trip, only to face costly surprises when something goes wrong. 

From rental car mishaps to uninsured drivers and state-by-state coverage differences, understanding these uncommon risks can save you from financial headaches. Before your next adventure, take a closer look at your coverage, and explore your options with car insurance quotes to make sure you’re protected against the unexpected.

Crossing State Lines? Your Coverage May Change

Your auto insurance policy follows you, but coverage requirements vary from state to state. If you’re traveling through or staying in a state with different minimum liability limits, your current policy might not be enough.

• At-fault versus no-fault states: In no-fault states, your insurance covers medical expenses regardless of who caused the accident. But if you’re from an at-fault state, you may not have the required personal injury protection (PIP) coverage.
• Minimum liability limits: Some states have significantly higher or lower liability minimums than your home state. If you cause an accident, your policy may only meet the lower threshold, leaving you responsible for additional costs.
• State-specific laws: Some states have unique insurance rules, such as mandatory uninsured motorist coverage or restrictions on filing claims. Understanding these differences can prevent coverage gaps.

Renting or Borrowing? Know the Insurance Rules

Planning to rent a car at your destination? Don’t assume your personal auto insurance will fully cover you.

• Rental car coverage gaps: While some policies extend coverage to rental vehicles, they may not cover all damages, such as loss-of-use fees charged by the rental company. Purchasing rental car insurance could prevent costly out-of-pocket expenses.
• Borrowing a friend’s car: If you’re driving someone else’s car, their policy typically provides primary coverage, but your own insurance may act as secondary. If their policy doesn’t cover all costs, you could be left paying the difference.
• Credit card coverage limitations: Some credit cards offer rental car insurance — but typically only if you decline the rental agency’s insurance. Additionally, it might not cover liability or injury-related claims.

What If an Uninsured Driver Hits You on the Road?

Not every driver on the road carries the proper insurance. In fact, one in seven drivers nationwide is uninsured, and some states have high percentages of uninsured motorists, increasing your risk of financial exposure.

• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage: Although 21 states and Washington, D.C., mandate uninsured motorist insurance, some states allow drivers to refuse coverage. Having your own coverage can help you pay for damages and medical expenses if an uninsured or underinsured driver hits you. 
• Hit-and-run accidents: If an at-fault driver flees the scene, uninsured motorist coverage may help cover your expenses.
• Medical payments coverage: If you or your passengers suffer injuries, medical payments coverage can help cover hospital bills, regardless of fault.

Emergency Roadside Assistance: Is It in Your Policy?

Breaking down in an unfamiliar area can turn your vacation into a nightmare. Many drivers assume their policy includes roadside assistance, only to find out too late that it doesn’t.

• Towing and labor: If your car breaks down, a roadside assistance add-on can cover towing costs, flat tire changes, battery jump-starts, and more.
• Lockout and fuel delivery services: Accidentally locked out of your car? Ran out of gas in a remote area? Check if your policy provides support for these common mishaps.
• Rental reimbursement coverage: If your car is undrivable due to an accident, rental reimbursement coverage helps pay for a temporary vehicle while yours undergoes repairs.

Don’t Let Insurance Gaps Ruin Your Getaway

A spring break road trip should be about making memories, not dealing with unexpected insurance headaches. Before hitting the road, take a few minutes to review your auto insurance policy to ensure you’re protected:

• Confirm that your coverage meets the requirements of the states you’re traveling to.
• Check if your policy extends to rental cars or borrowed vehicles.
• Consider increasing uninsured motorist coverage for extra protection.
• Verify that emergency roadside assistance and rental reimbursement are included in your plan.

Need help making sure your auto insurance is road-trip ready? Get a personalized car insurance quote from E.J. O’Neil Insurance today.

About E.J. O’Neil Insurance Agency

Since 1898, E.J. O’Neil Insurance Agency has provided homeowners with reliable coverage and high-quality customer service. Today, we offer a variety of policies, including commercial, boat, automobile, homeowners, motorcycle, and renters insurance. Quotes are free by phone or online request, and we can provide notary and other services at our location. We pride ourselves on caring for customers when they need it most. To find the right coverage for your needs, call 413-594-4757 or visit us online.