New Year, new you! While you are working on your personal resolutions over this year, one thing you may overlook is what is (or isn’t) in your vehicle. Since driving is a way of life for so many people, especially in Florida, people spend a lot more time in their vehicles here than in other states. With so many Florida drivers, and newer, younger drivers getting their licenses frequently, it is best to be organized in case of any snags on the road. Here is a list of five must haves when you go out for a drive:
1. Driver’s License (Essential)
This may be a no-brainer but sometimes it can be easily overlooked! Your driver’s license is the most important item you should have. Some people wear it on them (in a wallet, or on a lanyard), and others keep their license in the car. A driver’s license provides identification for yourself, your vehicle, and a way to contact you by showing your address. These are helpful both inside and outside a vehicle as it is considered primary personal identification.
2. Proof of Registration (Essential)
Another vital piece of the puzzle is your proof of vehicle registration. While many states may have different laws, it is best to have an up-to-date vehicle registration with you. This important document would tell someone such as a member of law enforcement that the vehicle is in your name and nobody else. With registration comes insurance, and you do need a minimum level of insurance to register a vehicle as it is the law. Because Florida is ranked #3 for states with uninsured drivers, we recommend uninsured motorist coverage on every auto policy.
3. Auto Insurance (Essential)
While every state has different laws, it is best to always be insured in case you have an accident. Insurance can help you out, even in the smallest “fender benders.” Your insurance allows for you to be covered against many things other than accidents. Depending on your coverage, your windshield can be replaced for little to no cost if it is cracked. Your policy can also provide you with coverage for bodily injury as well. Every aspect of your Auto Insurance Policy is important so make sure you review your policy with a licensed Agent or discuss these coverages with a licensed Agent if you’re shopping around for quotes.
4. Vehicle Manual & Service Records
While not essential, these are important. Your vehicle’s manual, while large, does provide a lot of information that can help you in a pinch. There is information about where your spare tire is and how to change a flat, emergency numbers (local and state), what each gauge symbol means and dashboard feature. If your car has had a specific light that comes on, your manual can let you know what it means. As cars evolve and have more technology, there may be more lights that can go off at infrequent times. Knowing what this all means and how to clear them is important.
Your service records tell anyone, such as a potential buyer, or mechanic about the car’s history with routine maintenance or any collisions in the past. This will give someone a better Idea of how to value the vehicle or give a mechanic a better picture on how to proceed with repairs.
5. Pen & Paper
You would be surprised how many people laugh at this and then have no way of writing something down in case of an accident. Yes, we all have smartphones now but what if that phone is ejected from the vehicle? Pen and paper can be stored in your glove box with the rest of your documents for easy access. These things are nice to have, and some cars even have a pen-clip in the glove compartment.
We hope our list can help you out in time of need but we never want anyone to feel unsafe when in their vehicle. If you are unsure what type of auto insurance you have or would like to review your policy, please call us at 850.244.2111 to speak to one of our Agents. You can also email us at service@harrisinsurance.com with any questions related to all of our insurance products!
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
