There is something truly exhilarating about exploring your country on a road trip. You come across hidden gems of natural beauty as you take the path less trodden during your journey across hilly regions and sandy shores.
While a road trip can be truly an adventure to remember, it is important that you also prepare yourself well for the long journey ahead of you. You need to get your car serviced, make sure you have adequate supplies of dry food, and ensure all your hotel bookings are done in advance. Most importantly, you also must make sure that you only head out on the road with valid car insurance.
Every motorist in the country needs to have a basic third-party car insurance policy in order to be legally compliant while driving. Most car owners opt to go a step further and buy comprehensive insurance so that they receive coverage for own damages as well as third-party losses. Now, when opting in for comprehensive coverage, you get the option of choosing certain add-ons to customize your insurance policy. If you frequently travel cross-country, here are 3 essential add-ons that you need to get before your next road trip.
- Roadside assistance
Imagine heading off on a drive and getting stranded midway when your vehicle breaks down. This situation can truly dampen your spirits and also leave you a bit unnerved. In such a situation, the roadside assistance add-on can prove to be your best friend. If you have this add-on, all you need to do is contact your insurer and let them know of your location. They will send a qualified mechanic to have your car fixed on the spot or provide assistance in getting your vehicle to the nearest service centre. This add-on also covers you for fuel refilling up to a certain pre-defined limit in case you have run out of fuel. You may also receive assistance in finding a hotel or lodge to spend the night while your car is being serviced; however, the room rent charges may not be paid by the insurer.
- Passenger cover
When on a road trip, you are probably taking your family or friends along with you too. It is important to know that your comprehensive car insurance policy does not cover these passengers during a mishap. However, you can secure those you love by buying an add-on known as passenger cover. The passenger cover add-on will cover any medical costs for passengers that arise due to an accident in the insured vehicle. This add-on also offers coverage for death or disability of a passenger sustained due to a mishap in the insured vehicle. While no one sets off on a road trip expecting the worst, it is wise to be prepared for any sudden and unforeseen mishaps.
- Engine protection cover
The engine protection add-on covers your car engine which is generally not included for coverage in comprehensive car insurance. This add-on covers you for any kind of financial losses you face due to certain damages to your car’s engine. These damages include lubricant oil leakage, gearbox problems, and hydrostatic lock, among others as mentioned in your insurance policy. For instance, if you head on a trip in the rainy season and get stuck somewhere due to unexpected floods, the rising water levels may damage your engine. If such a situation occurs, you can claim coverage from your insurance provider due to this add-on. The engine is the heart of your vehicle and as such, opting in for this add-on will save you from possibly heft bills while away on a road trip.
Make sure to opt in for these add-ons while buying or renewing your car insurance policy so that you are completely protected on your next adventure. Remember to always wear a seatbelt and drive safely.
Bon voyage!
