A couple of weeks ago we posted a list of five insurance policies you definitely need to review as you prepare to head out and enjoy your summer plans. Believe it or not, though, that original list only mentioned some of the insurance policies worth keeping in mind during your seasonal activities.
By now we’re willing to bet that “summer brain” is starting to set in and wash away your worries. Unfortunately, even during this relaxing time of the year risk factors can become full-blown, potentially expensive problems. So before you head out for your summer adventures, take a moment and make sure you’ve reviewed whether or not your insurance covers these five scenarios and objects that could interfere with your favorite season in the year.
-Scooters Or Motorcycles: For many motorcyclists early summer is the perfect time to ride their bikes. Since motorcycles can’t be included in an auto insurance policy, it’s important to review and consider updating your current motorcycle insurance policy before you head out for a summer roadtrip. We’ve talked about a motorcyclist’s insurance needs before, which include liability, personal injury protection, comprehensive and collision coverage.
Motorcycles aren’t the only form of transportation that require their own insurance; like motorcycles, any small motor scooters people may own are not covered under a normal auto insurance policy. Legally scooter riders only need to purchase basic liability insurance; seeing as this only offers coverage for any damage and injuries other people incur in an accident, it’s important to consider collision and comprehensive insurance as well. Don’t worry: many affordable policies cover all of these needs.
-ATVs: For some people the most exciting part about the summer is bringing out their all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for a little off-road fun. However, just like motorcycles and scooters, ATVs are not covered under standard auto insurance policies. Sometimes a homeowners policy includes liability partial coverage for an ATV, but no ATV owner should assume they’re fully covered by this. Instead all ATV owners should consider having a full ATV coverage policy; if any family members or friends will be driving your ATV for the first time this year, it’s especially important to check that they’re also covered under an existing policy to make sure any off-road tumbles don’t lead to extremely expensive medical costs.
-Trampolines: We’re willing to bet you never expected to see trampolines on this list. While trampolines themselves don’t require insurance, what many people don’t realize is that some companies can deny a claim if they have policy exclusions for anything involving a trampoline. Some companies can refuse to insure a property if they deem a trampoline too risky, and others will cancel your policy if a trampoline goes against the safety guidelines written out by your insurance contract. Because of this, it’s extremely important to review your insurance policy and find out if trampoline-related injuries would be covered, and if a trampoline is allowed on your property to begin with, before your children or their friends beginning playing on one.
-Fireworks: Summertime festivities and fireworks go hand-in-hand, but for Pennsylvania residents fireworks create a double-whammy risk factor. Not only can improperly lighting and using fireworks cause serious injuries, but in states that do not allow the use of fireworks without a permit the use of fireworks can also jeopardize your current homeowners insurance coverage. So while residents in states where fireworks are legal should always check to see if their property includes proper liability and damage protections, those of us in the Keystone State must remember that setting off fireworks can potentially lead to us losing our insurance coverage. Plus as a result of the risk associated with us, we’ll pay far more for a new policy with a new insurance company.
-Renting Homes: Are you planning on renting out your home this summer? Many people rent out a room during the summer to help bring in some extra cash, but without the right insurance that extra cash could potentially go into paying liability and property damages caused by your temporary subletter or subletters. The insurance requirements for renting our homes vary considerably depending on how long and how often people will be staying with the homeowner. Some insurance plans will allow short-term visits on a regular home insurance policy, while others may require a small renters insurance policy. Because of this, it’s best to talk to your policy holder and see exactly what you are – and aren’t – covered for, before anyone moves in for the season.
Are you unsure if your insurance offers the right coverage for you? Do you need a new policy for one of your vehicles? Let the Fisher Widmann Flick Insurance Agency help protect you so that you can enjoy your summer in peace. Go ahead and contact us today to set up an appointment with one of us trained insurance experts, who can make sure your insurance policies cover exactly what they need to cover, all at a reasonable cost. We’re all that stands between you and a wonderful relaxing summer, so don’t wait!