Romantic Road Trips: Is Your Auto Insurance Ready for the Ride? 

Nothing is more romantic than hitting the open road with your partner: windows down, your favorite music playlist in the background, and a weekend of romance just miles ahead.  

But let us talk about something slightly less romantic—your auto insurance. Insurance may be the last thing you want to consider while planning a weekend of sweet things; you don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere and suddenly have a flat tire or, worse, an accident. 

Before you hit the road, let us make sure your insurance is up to date, covers everything you need, and will not leave you stranded in an unpleasant situation during your perfect weekend. 

What is in Your Auto Insurance Policy? 

It is easy to assume your policy covers everything—until you need it. So, let’s quickly review your options: 

• Liability Coverage – If you accidentally sideswipe another car while admiring the sunset (or bickering over directions), liability coverage takes care of the damages. 

• Collision Coverage – If your car gets dinged, dented, or totaled, collision coverage helps with repairs or replacement, regardless of who is at fault. 

• Comprehensive Coverage – Covers the “life is unpredictable” situations—falling tree branches, rogue deer, stolen cars. 

• Medical Payments or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Helps cover medical expenses. 

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage – If you’re hit by someone who decided insurance was “optional,” this segment of your policy keeps you from covering the bill. 

It is worth taking five minutes to check your policy and ensure you have all the coverage you need.  

Does Your Auto Insurance Cover Rental Cars? 

You are renting a car for this trip. You wanted a vehicle that would leave an impression and make you feel like you are starring in a romantic comedy on a real getaway instead of driving the car you usually drive to through rush-hour traffic.  

Here is what you need to know before you get upsold on rental insurance at the counter: 

• Your policy might already cover it. Liability and collision coverage often extend to rental cars but check the fine print. 

• The rental company’s insurance is an option. If your policy does not include rental cars, you may want to say yes to that extra fee.  

• Your credit card may offer rental options. Some credit cards offer rental car coverage as a reward, so it is worth checking before you sign anything. 

Nothing kills the romance faster than an expense you weren’t prepared to make, so make sure that you are covered before you hit the road.  

Roadside Assistance: The Unsung Hero of Road Trips 

Here is a fun fact: No one ever thinks about roadside assistance until they need it.  

A flat tire, a dead battery, locking your keys in the car while attempting to take the perfect Instagram photo with perfect lighting—it happens to the best of us, and when it does, it’s usually not in the city but in the worst locations, often where cell service is terrible.  

Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver, covering: 

• Towing 

• Flat tire changes 

• Battery jump-starts 

• Lockout assistance 

• Fuel delivery (for when “we have enough gas” turns out to be a lie) 

If you do not already have it, adding it to your policy is one of those things you will never regret. Also, double-check that you did not add it to your phone policy. Some companies like AT&T offer coverage. 

How to Update Auto Insurance Before a Road Trip 

Before packing your bags and setting your GPS, one of the most important things to do is update your auto insurance policy to align with your travel plans. If you have not reviewed your policy in a while, now is the perfect time to check your coverage limits, deductibles, and benefits. 

Why Updating Your Auto Insurance Matters 

Many drivers in Florida maintain only the minimum required liability insurance, but this may not be enough for a long road trip. Minimum coverage policies typically only pay for damage you cause to others, but they will not help with repairs to your vehicle if you’re involved in an accident. This can leave you vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket expenses. 

Additionally, if you have recently purchased a new car, check if your policy has been updated to include comprehensive coverage and collision coverage, which protect against theft, vandalism, and road accidents. 

Steps to Take Before Your Trip 

1. Contact Your Insurance Agent – provides financial protection. Call your provider to verify that your active coverage meets Florida’s insurance requirements. 

1. Confirm Rental Car Coverage – If you plan to rent a vehicle for your trip, check whether your current insurance company covers rental cars or if you need to purchase additional coverage. 

1. Check for Coverage Gaps – Check if your policy includes protection against uninsured motorists, as Florida has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers. 

1. Assess Your Deductibles – A high deductible might lower your monthly payments, but it can be costly if you need to file a claim while traveling. 

Updating your auto insurance before a road trip provides financial protection and peace of mind, allowing you to focus on creating memorable moments with your loved one. 

What to Do If the Unexpected Happens 

If you get into an accident, here is the game plan: 

1. Make sure everyone is okay. If there are injuries, call for help immediately. 

1. Move to a safe spot. If possible, pull over somewhere safe and out of traffic. 

1. Swap information, such as names, insurance, and details, so that you have everything you need to complete your claim. 

1. Document everything. Take photos and write down details just in case you lose your phone or have a digital mishap—future you will thank yourself. 

1. Call the authorities if necessary.  

1. Call your insurance provider. The sooner you file a claim, the better. 

A little preparation helps immensely when you are dealing with a demanding situation. People often panic and forget to get the details; staying prepared can help your insurance provider.  

Choosing the Right Coverage Options for a Safe Road Trip

Florida is a popular travel destination, especially in February when the weather is ideal for road trips. But before you drive along scenic routes like the Florida Keys Overseas Highway or explore charming towns like St. Augustine, see if your car insurance includes the right coverage options to keep you safe. 

If you want to be extra prepared for any possibilities, here are a few options worth exploring: 

• Comprehensive Coverage – This protects against damage not caused by a collision, such as theft, fire, flooding, or animal-related incidents. Given Florida’s unpredictable weather, having comprehensive coverage is necessary. 

• Collision Coverage – This covers damage to your vehicle if you are involved in an accident, whether with another car or an object like a tree or guardrail. 

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage – About 20% of Florida drivers do not have car insurance. If you’re in an accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured motorist, this coverage will help pay for damages and medical expenses. 

• Roadside Assistance – If you experience a breakdown, flat tire, or dead battery, having roadside assistance can save you from delays and stress. Many auto insurance companies offer this as an add-on. 

• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your insurance provider will cover your medical expenses regardless of who is at fault. This coverage is required for all drivers in Florida. 

• Before your trip, review your insurance policy for gaps in protection or coverages for you and your passengers. 

Why Choose Shapiro Insurance Group for Your Auto Insurance Needs? 

At Shapiro Insurance Group, we understand the importance of having auto insurance that provides reliable protection while keeping costs affordable. As a trusted Florida-based insurance provider, we offer a range of policies tailored to meet your needs, whether driving a new vehicle or an RV or even looking for homeowners’ insurance to bundle with your auto policy. 

Personalized Service – Our experienced insurance agents work closely with you to find the right coverage at the best price.
Comprehensive Coverage Options – Whether you need liability coverage, uninsured motorist protection, or a new policy, we offer flexible plans to fit your lifestyle.
Affordable Rates – We help you find the best car insurance rate by comparing multiple insurance companies to ensure you get competitive pricing.
Local Expertise – As a Florida-based insurance company, we understand the unique driving challenges in the Sunshine State and provide tailored solutions. 

If you’re planning a Valentine’s Day Road trip, let us help you review your policy and find the best coverage option to keep you safe. Contact Shapiro Insurance Group at 1-800-563-5467 today for a free quote.