Before you set off on your next road trip adventure, ensure your car insurance is up to date to protect against unexpected situations and enhance your travel experience.
Road trips offer more than a vacation. They provide an opportunity to relax, explore and create memories. Before you pack your bags and customize the ultimate road trip playlist, it’s important to take the time to make sure your car insurance coverage is ready for your next adventure.
While you might be covered for daily driving, a road trip might expose you and your vehicle to situations not typically encountered. Liability coverage, which is mandatory in most states, covers damages and medical costs for others if you’re at fault for an accident. However, for more thorough protection against road trip uncertainties, you may want to consider adding these options to your insurance policy:
Collision Insurance:
This covers damages to your own vehicle in the event of an accident, regardless of who is at fault. When traveling far from home, this coverage can be a financial lifesaver.
Comprehensive Insurance:
Going beyond collisions, comprehensive insurance protects you against theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Whether a hailstorm damages your car or you encounter a break-in, comprehensive coverage ensures that you’re not paying out of pocket.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection:
Despite it being law, not all drivers carry adequate car insurance. This coverage protects you if you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured vehicle.
Roadside Assistance:
For additional peace of mind, consider adding roadside assistance to your policy. This service can prove invaluable in case of a breakdown, flat tire, or if you lock your keys in the car. While it may not prevent incidents, it certainly makes dealing with them less stressful.
Mexican Car Insurance:
For those planning to cross the southern border, know that the landscape of car insurance changes dramatically. Relying on a standard U.S. auto insurance policy could leave you underinsured. Some U.S. insurance companies may offer limited coverage, however, it generally extends only about 10 miles over the Mexican border. This may not be enough to satisfy Mexican legal requirements.
The repercussions of driving without adequate coverage in Mexico can range from fines to liability judgments and even potential jail time. Rather than taking your chances, its best to purchase a stand-alone auto policy before you head to the southern border. Media Benefits Insurance Services has partnered with Mexipass, a Managing General Agent (MGA) and Underwriting Manager for Mexico insurance products specifically designed to meet the needs of American residents and businesses looking for Mexican insurance coverage. MexiPass offers exclusive Mexico insurance products from top international carriers that provide U.S. standards of coverage for American and other foreign individuals and business looking for additional coverage.
Having the right car insurance coverage in place before you head out on the open road means you’ll be better prepared for whatever lies ahead. Take a moment to review and update your insurance if needed. It could be the most important part of your trip preparation. Contact First Entertainment and discuss your travel plans with an insurance professional who can make sure your auto insurance is right for you.
Cynthia Padilla, Insurance Agent, MBIS (Hollywood Branch)
323.845.4489
cpadi@firstent.org
Maria Okafor, Insurance Agent, MBIS (Burbank Branch)
323.845.4494
mokaf@firstent.org
Monique Garcia, Insurance Agent, MBIS (Culver City Branch)
323.845.4495
mgarc@firstent.org
Media Benefits Insurance Services
6735 Forest Lawn Dr., Hollywood, CA 90068
insurance@firstent.org
www.firstent.org
