Dealing with hurricanes every year is nothing new, especially for those that reside in the South-Eastern and gulf regions of the United States. Last year Mother Nature really made her presence known with the help of hurricane Katrina, Gustav, and a few others that battered the coasts last year. If you didn’t prepare yourself, your home, your car, and other valuables last year, chances are you’re paying the price now. The best way to avoid failure is to be prepared, and these simple tips will help you do so.
Plan Your Hurricane Evacuation
The local weather authorities will issue evacuation warnings, but many times it’s too late, or the enormous surge of vehicles on the road will prevent you from leaving for hours. It is best to monitor the storm yourself, instead of waiting for the final decision. It can’t hurt to evacuate beforehand, just to play it safe. This will ensure you get off the coast to safe area, with your loved ones, your car, and other valuable possessions. Don’t forget to bring social security cards, government IDs, banking information, home and car titles, and of course, your auto insurance; which you should have in your car at all times anyway.
Hurricane Car Safety
When a hurricane is heading toward the coast, you better hope your car is in tip-top shape, and has a full tank of gas. You may have to gas up days before the evacuation date, as gas shortages are fairly common in these desperate situations. Take your car to the mechanic to get an oil change, necessary repairs, and new tires, if any of these are needed. Driving conditions during these brutal storms, can be equally dangerous.
You of course should reinforce the house where ever possible to reduce damage. Windows and doors are particularly important to board up. But don’t forget to reinforce your garage as well! Large objects like ladders and wood should be moved from the garage to avoid unnecessary damage. Cover your car with a tarp, or something with padding, if you have it. Secure the tarp as best you can.
Hurricane Auto Insurance Tips
Protection from hurricane damages requires a comprehensive coverage policy. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, get comprehensive coverage well in advance. Some companies will refuse to sell auto insurance to those living in these areas during hurricane season, and federal law requires it take 30 days before comprehensive coverage goes into effect from time of signing. Enter your zip code above, and see if you qualify for hurricane auto insurance protection. Don’t procrastinate on getting coverage, hurricane season is just around the corner, and you’ll be happy you did.
The best way to avoid extra insurance costs is to follow the advice above. Being prepared helps you avoid ever having to file a claim. If you don’t have your car ready for hurricane season, chances are your premiums will incrase.
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