Must-do’s before your summer road trip
Before you set off, check these 5 simple vehicle essentials:
Top up your windshield washer fluid.
Wipe your mirrors.
Review your vehicle inspection schedule. If your next visit falls soon after your trip, consider doing it before. If you’ve misplaced your service book and aren’t sure, contact your dealer.
Save on gas and preserve the life of your tires by inflating them to the correct level. You’ll find the prescribed air pressure on the sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual.
Check your oil and coolant levels and top them up or replace them, if necessary. If your vehicle’s newish, you may not need a change.
Test your lights. This may seem like an obvious one but it is a quick and crucial safety check. With the help of a friend or by using the reflection in a garage door or window, confirm that your headlights (both high and low beams), brake lights, and turn signals are all functioning correctly.
You never plan for an emergency, but you can prepare for one. A well-stocked kit can be invaluable if you find yourself waiting for help. Be sure to include:
First-Aid Supplies: A basic kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
Vehicle Essentials: Jumper cables, a flashlight with fresh batteries, basic tools, and a tire pressure gauge
Personal Items: A portable phone charger or power bank, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a warm blanket.
Last, but certainly not least: Check what your auto insurance does and doesn’t cover.
Policies vary. Re-read yours closely to see what you’re not covered for. By law, all Canadian vehicles must have third-party liability coverage. So, you have coverage if you unintentionally injure someone or accidentally damage their vehicle with your car.
But what about you and your vehicle? A flat tire, dead battery, or getting locked out of your car can be a headache to deal with, but you can empower yourself in these situations with a roadside assistance plan. Many drivers already have this coverage and may not realize it.
Review your auto insurance policy to see if roadside assistance or trip-interruption coverage are available to you. A quick call to your provider can clarify your coverage and ensuring your plan gives you peace of mind.
If you’re itching to go on a road trip but the concern about something going wrong is holding you back, getting comprehensive insurance coverage will give you the confidence to take the leap. It helps cover your ride from everything beyond collisions, like sudden heavy hailstorms or floods, theft, or vandalism.
Tips: Registering for My PC Insurance gives you easy and convenient access to your insurance documents. And if you need help with understanding your policy, we’re here to help - contact us. We’ll be happy to walk you through your coverage.
General information is provided for your reference and interest only. The above content is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on matters of interest and is not a substitute for and should not be construed as the advice of an experienced professional. PC® Insurance does not guarantee the currency, accuracy, applicability or completeness of this content.
