Now that winter is a distant memory and summer has officially begun, your focus has likely shifted to vacation plans, backyard barbecues, and outdoor activities. However, before you leave town, invite guests over for a swim, or get your ATV out of storage, it’s crucial to make sure you have the right insurance for any unexpected events that may arise. Along with all the fun this season brings, there are also many increased risks that have the potential to cause significant financial loss. Here are some of the most common coverage needs people have during this time of year.

Summer Insurance Checklist

1. Homeowners Insurance

If you are going on a trip over the summer, you want to ensure your homeowner’s insurance coverage will cover your belongings while away from home. Most policies are designed to protect your personal possessions if your luggage gets lost or items are stolen from your hotel room, but it’s a good idea to see if there are any exclusions and what the limits are. You may need to purchase additional coverage if you plan to travel with expensive jewelry or electronics.

2. Auto Insurance

With more people out on the roads in the summertime, it’s especially important to review your auto insurance. Make sure you’re prepared for the possibility of an accident by having enough liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. If you’re going on a road trip, you should also consider adding roadside assistance and rental car coverage to your policy to avoid getting stranded anywhere.

3. Recreational Insurance

Whether you’re taking the boat or Jet Skis® out on the water, traversing the landscape on ATVs, heading out on a thrilling motorcycle ride, or camping in your RV, you will need recreational insurance that covers both liability and damages to your own investment. If you get into an accident with another party while using your watercraft, ATV, motorcycle, or motorhome, you may be found financially responsible for their medical bills and other losses as well as repairs for your property. Your policy will help cover these costs and litigation fees stemming from a lawsuit.

4. Umbrella Insurance

An umbrella policy will provide coverage above and beyond your standard homeowners or auto insurance liability limits. This gives you extra protection in situations where a basic policy isn’t enough to cover excessive medical and legal expenses, such as your dog biting someone at a garage sale or someone getting injured while using your swimming pool or trampoline. Your umbrella policy would pick up where your original policy ends.

If you have yet to evaluate where your current insurance coverage stands for the summer, contact Mountcastle Insurance for help. They will be happy to review your policies and discuss any possible areas where you’re lacking adequate protection. With offices in Lexington and Winston-Salem, NC, they have proudly served residents throughout the Piedmont Triad area for over a century. As an independent agency, they can provide you with a broad selection of competitively priced insurance solutions. Call (336) 777-8500 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to browse all the products they offer.