Straight Talk - The Arnold Insurance Blog

Road Trip Ready? Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Review Your Auto Insurance

Written by Arnold Insurance | Jun 17, 2025 3:00:00 PM

Summer is here, and that means it’s time for long drives, scenic road trips, and family vacations. Whether you're planning a weekend on the coast, a cross-country adventure, or just cruising to the nearest lake, summer journeys come with their own unique set of thrills and, yes, risks.

But here’s a question for you as you map out your adventures this year: is your auto insurance road-trip-ready? Summer is the ideal time to reassess what your policy can do for you. And trust us, spending just a few minutes reviewing your coverage could save you time, money, and stress down the road (literally).

Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your auto insurance is as ready for summer as you are.

Increased Summer Driving Means Increased Risk

If the open road feels a little busier during the summer months, it’s not just your imagination. Summer is peak driving season, and more cars on the road mean more chances for accidents. Here’s why:

  • More Drivers, More Risk: Family road trips, college students home for the season, and teenagers newly armed with licenses make summer roads more congested (and sometimes unpredictable).
  • Tourist Traffic: Out-of-town drivers unfamiliar with the local landscape can sometimes add to the chaos.
  • Weather Woes: Sweltering heat, pop-up storms, and even seasonal flooding can impact driving conditions and vehicle performance.

With all of these added nuances, it makes sense to take a closer look at your auto insurance policy before you hit the highway.

What to Look for in Your Auto Insurance Policy

Before you start packing the car, pull out your insurance policy (or log into your account). Here are the key areas you should review to make sure you’re covered for every stoplight, pit stop, and scenic detour:

1. Liability Limits

Does your policy provide enough protection in case you’re responsible for an accident? Medical bills, vehicle damage, lawsuits… they can all add up fast. Make sure your liability limits are sufficient to safeguard you financially.

2. Collision and Comprehensive Coverage

Your car might take a few hits on those summer roads. Whether it’s a fender bender on a crowded highway or hail damage during a sudden storm, collision and comprehensive coverage ensure your repairs don’t come straight out of pocket. 

3. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Not every driver carries adequate insurance. (Yikes, we know!) This coverage ensures you’re protected if you’re hit by someone with insufficient insurance or none at all.

4. Roadside Assistance

Flat tire? Engine troubles? Locked yourself out of the car? (It happens to the best of us!) Roadside assistance is a lifesaver during summer travels and long-distance trips.

5. Rental Reimbursement

If your car lands in the shop following an accident, rental reimbursement coverage makes sure you’re not left stranded. You can get a temporary set of wheels without extra expense, so your summer plans continue uninterrupted.

Life Changes That Could Impact Your Policy

Here’s another factor to think about: has anything changed in your life recently? Big or small, life changes often require adjustments to your auto insurance. 

  • Have you purchased a new car recently?
  • Added a teen driver to the family?
  • Moved to a new area? (Yes, your zip code can affect your rates!)

Even small updates could mean changing your coverage or saving you money with discounts. Don’t overlook this step, especially before the busy summer driving season.

Tips for Staying Safe on the Road This Summer

Smart insurance is only part of the equation. Safe driving habits and a well-maintained vehicle can go a long way in making your summer adventures stress-free. For all you road warriors, here’s a quick checklist:

  1. Inspect Your Vehicle: Check your tires, brakes, oil, and fluids, and make sure your A/C is ready to handle long, hot drives.
  2. Carry Essentials: Always have your proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and roadside assistance contact handy.
  3. Use Navigation Wisely: GPS apps with real-time traffic updates can help you avoid jams (and your passengers might thank you for the extra snack stop).
  4. Stay Focused: Avoid distractions like texting, eating, or jamming to your road trip playlist a little too enthusiastically.

Common Auto Insurance Mistakes to Avoid

We get it, auto insurance might not be the most exciting part of your summer prep. But making the wrong call on your policy could leave you regretting it later. Keep an eye out for these common mistakes:

  • Letting Coverage Lapse: Even a temporary lapse could mean penalties or higher premiums when reinstating your policy.
  • Being Underinsured: Cutting costs by skimping on coverage could cost you significantly more in the long run.
  • Forgetting to Update Your Policy: Major life changes (like those we discussed earlier) can impact your premiums and coverage. Keep your information up-to-date.

Why Choose Arnold Insurance for Your Summer Coverage Needs

Shopping for insurance doesn’t have to feel like a chore. At Arnold Insurance, we believe in making it simple, personalized, and stress-free. Here’s how we can help before your next big adventure:

  • Custom Policy Reviews: We’ll go over every detail of your policy to ensure it matches your needs (and your road trip dreams).
  • Exclusive Savings Opportunities: Our agents will help you identify gaps or discounts you may have missed, so you get great coverage AND great value.
  • Access to Top Carriers: With access to multiple insurance providers, we can find you competitive rates while maintaining the coverage you need.

We’re here to protect what matters to you most, whether it’s your family, your ride, or your peace of mind.

Pack Your Bags AND the Right Coverage

Summer is all about enjoying the open road and making memories—not worrying about "what ifs." By taking the time to review your auto insurance now, you’ll set yourself up for a safer, smoother season.

Got questions about your coverage? Want to know if your policy is road-trip-ready? Reach out to Arnold Insurance today and enjoy total peace of mind before you start your engine. 

After all, your summer adventure deserves the very best start.