4 Reasons to Purchase Business Interruption Insurance
The Need for Revenue Doesn’t Pause When You Can’t Do Business
Business interruption (BI) insurance replaces lost income when a covered peril forces you to slow or stop operations. Typical triggers include fire, wind, or water damage that makes your premises unsafe or unusable, or a direct physical loss to key equipment that halts production.
Property insurance pays to repair buildings and equipment; BI covers the lost revenue during downtime. Insurers generally measure the loss using your historical sales, normal operating trends, and seasonality. If your business peaks during the holidays or summer, that higher expected revenue is included in the calculation, which matters if a shutdown occurs during your busy season.
Keep the Lights On: Fixed Expenses Covered
Beyond lost net income, BI typically covers necessary continuing expenses you can’t easily turn off. Think of payroll, rent or mortgage, utilities, property taxes, and scheduled loan payments. Keeping payroll flowing preserves your trained team so you can restart quickly without the cost and delay of rehiring and retraining.
Some policies include an ordinary payroll limitation that caps coverage for non-key staff after a set number of days. Others allow for higher limits to keep everyone on board through a longer outage. Maintaining rent, taxes, and loan payments protects your credit standing and vendor relationships, which can be critical when you’re negotiating extended terms or expedited deliveries after a loss.
Comeback Faster: Extra Expense Coverage
Extra expense coverage pays reasonable costs you incur to shorten or mitigate the interruption. Examples include leasing a temporary location, renting substitute equipment, paying overtime for contractors, expediting shipping, or outsourcing portions of your workflow to a qualified vendor. Spending more up front can reduce overall claims by shortening downtime.
Many policies evaluate extra expenses on a “least cost” basis. If a $15,000 temporary fix prevents $75,000 of additional lost income, it’s usually a covered win. Track these costs separately and keep vendor quotes, invoices, and emails that show how each expense sped up your return to normal.
Supply Chain Snags and Civil Authority Closures
Not every disruption happens inside your four walls. Civil authority coverage may respond when a government order blocks access to your premises due to nearby property damage. Policies often include a short waiting period before coverage begins and a maximum duration for this extension. Contingent business interruption can address losses caused by direct physical damage to a scheduled supplier or major customer that stops the flow of materials or sales. To support these claims, expect to provide purchase orders, contracts, historical lead times, shipping records, and communications that document how the external event interrupted your revenue.
Sizing It Right: Limits, Waiting Periods, and Indemnity
Right-sizing BI starts with your finances. Calculate limits using gross earnings or business income formulas that reflect your margins, fixed costs, and realistic ramp-up time. Include seasonality and planned growth to avoid underinsurance during your busiest months. Most policies include a waiting period (commonly 24–72 hours) before coverage starts; choose a deductible and waiting period that fit your cash reserves.
The indemnity period is when the policy pays for covered losses, often up to 12, 18, or 24 months. For major rebuilds, permitting delays and equipment lead times can easily push past a year, so match the period to your real-world recovery timeline. Review coinsurance clauses, ordinary payroll limitations, and any exclusions that might trim a payout if limits are too low.
Build Resilience Into Your Balance Sheet
Interruption coverage turns a shutdown into a setback rather than a threat to survival. Our agents at Fischer Insurance Agency can help you model limits, waiting periods, and extra expense options against real scenarios, then place business insurance designed to keep cash flow moving when the unexpected hits. Give us a call today at (570) 323-3600.
A Guide to Winterizing Your Home
Drafts, Doors, and Dollars
To winterize your home, start with the biggest leaks, such as attic hatches, exterior doors, baseboards, and windows. Add adhesive weatherstripping to door jambs and sweeps to the bottom edge; use silicone caulk around window and door casings, plumbing penetrations, and where siding meets the foundation. Do a simple smoke-pencil test: on a windy day, turn on kitchen/bath fans, then move an incense stick or smoke pencil along trim and outlets; smoke that wavers or is sucked inward flags a leak. Air sealing paired with insulation typically reduces heating costs by 10–15 percent, which is why it’s the first, highest-ROI winter task.
Heat Without the Headache: HVAC Tune-Ups
A pre-winter service should inspect burners and heat exchangers, test safeties, verify combustion and draft, clean the flame sensor, check refrigerant levels for heat pumps, and calibrate the thermostat. Replace filters every 1–3 months; most homes do best with MERV 8–11 for airflow and capture balance, while allergy households often choose MERV 11–13 if the system can handle it. For setback savings, drop the thermostat 7–10° F while you sleep or are away for 8 hours; many households see annual heating costs 10 percent lower without sacrificing comfort.
Pipes on Ice? Not Today.
Slip foam sleeves over exposed lines in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. Cap outdoor faucets and shut interior valves to drain the exterior lines. During a deep cold snap, run a pencil-thin trickle from a tap to keep water moving. Smart leak sensors should be installed beneath sinks, near the water heater, and behind the washer. If a line bursts, an automatic shut-off valve at the main (or a smart valve at key branches) can stop flow fast and limit damage.
Roof, Gutters, and the Great Ice Dam Escape
Clean gutters of leaves and grit, then test the flow by running a garden hose at the high end. Confirm each downspout discharges several feet from the foundation. Prevent ice dams by keeping the attic cold. Seal all attic air leaks around light fixtures and chases, ensure continuous soffit intake and ridge or gable exhaust, and avoid venting bath fans into the attic. Schedule a roof inspection annually or after hail; a pro will spot lifted shingles, failed flashing, and soft decking before snow finds them.
Safety First: Fire, Carbon Monoxide, and Generators
Place smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level and near sleeping spaces. Test monthly and replace batteries on a set schedule, twice per year. Space heaters need a 3-foot buffer from anything that burns, must sit on a flat surface, and should plug directly into a wall outlet with tip-over and overheat protection. If using a portable generator, run it outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and windows, never in a garage, and power the house through a transfer switch.
Call Your Agent Before the Snow Flies
Winter-proofing lowers risk and may unlock discounts. Talk with your local Pennsylvania agent about coverage tweaks for cold-weather hazards and home upgrades, before the first freeze turns minor issues into major claims. Give us a call at (570) 323-3600.
PPO Health Insurance: Leveraging the Advantages of Preferred Provider Organizations
Choosing a health insurance plan involves comparing different types of coverage to find the right fit for your needs. One option that continues to appeal to individuals and families is the Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plan. PPO health insurance offers flexibility, convenience, and access to a wide network of healthcare providers. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value freedom in managing their healthcare.
What Is a PPO?
A Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) is a type of health insurance plan that provides coverage for both in-network and out-of-network care. PPOs have networks of doctors, specialists, and hospitals that offer services at discounted rates to plan members. While the greatest savings come from staying in network, these plans also cover care from out-of-network providers, typically at a higher cost.
This flexibility distinguishes PPOs from Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans that require their members to use in-network providers and obtain referrals for specialist visits. People who travel frequently, live in multiple locations, or want the freedom to select healthcare providers without restrictions often choose PPO coverage.
Benefits of PPO Health Insurance
Preferred Provider Organization plans offer several advantages that make them a strong option for many individuals and families:
- Freedom to choose providers: Plan members can see any doctor or specialist without a referral. This may be ideal for those who want direct access to specialists or who want to continue seeing a provider who is not in the network.
- No primary care requirement: PPOs do not require members to choose a primary care physician (PCP) or obtain referrals to see specialists. This allows them to manage their own healthcare and make timely decisions regarding treatment.
- Nationwide provider network: Many PPO plans have extensive provider networks throughout the country. This broad coverage can be particularly beneficial for those who travel often, move frequently, or have children attending school out of state.
- Out-of-network coverage: Unlike HMOs, PPO plans cover services from out-of-network providers, although the cost for plan members is typically higher. This allows for more control over where and how you receive care, particularly when specialized treatment is required.
Coverage for Varied Healthcare Needs
Preferred Provider Organization plans may be ideal for families with varied healthcare needs. Individual family members can see their own doctors and specialists without limitation to a single provider network. This flexibility can help ensure everyone receives the right level of care, whether it involves routine checkups, ongoing treatment, or specialized medical services.
Factors to Consider
Although they offer greater flexibility, PPOs may have higher premiums and deductibles than other plan types. Before enrolling in a plan, carefully assess your healthcare needs and budget. Consider the frequency of your doctor visits, whether you anticipate needing specialized care, and whether your preferred providers are included in the plan’s network. Review prescription coverage, preventive care benefits, and annual maximums to ensure the plan suits your needs.
Our experienced agent can help you compare plan options and determine whether a PPO aligns with your healthcare goals. We can explain costs, coverage details, and provider network information to help you make a confident, informed choice. Give us a call today at (570) 323-3600.
5 Reasons Why Life Insurance is Essential for Your Family’s Future
Life insurance is a valuable financial tool to help you protect your loved ones. It can provide peace of mind, stability, and long-term benefits that go far beyond a single payout. Whether you are starting a family or planning for retirement, the right life insurance policy can help ensure financial security for years to come. The following are five key reasons why life insurance is essential for your family’s future.
Financial Security
If an unexpected accident or debilitating illness or injury leads to incapacitation or death, life insurance can help your loved ones maintain their lifestyle and meet their financial obligations. The death benefit can help replace lost income, pay off debts, and cover expenses such as mortgage payments, childcare, and education. Without life insurance, your family could face serious financial hardship during one of life’s most difficult times. Having a policy in place provides assurance that they will have the resources they need to remain financially stable.
Final Expenses Coverage
Funerals, burials, and other end-of-life costs can be more expensive than many people realize. A traditional U.S. funeral with viewing and burial can range from $8,000 to $12,000. Life insurance can relieve your family of the financial burden of covering outstanding medical bills, funeral arrangements, and burial or cremation costs. This coverage allows your loved ones to focus on healing and remembrance, rather than the financial stress of paying for final expenses. Even a modest policy can make a meaningful difference.
Cash Value
Permanent whole life or universal life insurance includes a cash value component that grows over time and acts as a savings account built into your policy. Cash value accumulates tax deferred and can be accessed through loans or withdrawals while you are living. It can serve as an additional source of funds for emergencies, education expenses, or retirement. Long-term growth potential makes permanent life insurance an attractive option if you are seeking protection and financial flexibility.
Chronic or Terminal Illness Coverage
Living benefits included in many life insurance policies provide coverage if you are diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness. (In this context, chronic illness is a medical condition that prevents you from performing basic daily activities without assistance for an extended period.) These benefits allow you to access a portion of your death benefit early to cover medical treatments, long-term care, and other personal expenses. They can help you maintain quality of life and reduce stress during a serious health challenge.
Tax-Free Payout
Death benefits are typically paid out to beneficiaries free of federal income tax. This is one of the most powerful advantages of life insurance. It allows your loved ones to receive the full amount of the policy, with no reduction for taxes. This provides financial liquidity and the ability to manage expenses, preserve assets, or invest without the additional financial burden.
Securing Your Family’s Future
More than a policy, life insurance is a promise to protect the ones who matter most. It can provide financial security, offer long-term savings and tax advantages, and play a vital role in your family’s financial plan. Review your coverage with our trusted agent at (570) 323-3600 to ensure your policy fits your current needs and adapts as your life changes.
Your Business Insurance Policy Checklist
As your business evolves over time, so should your insurance protection. Staying proactive with insurance coverage can mean the difference between a minor setback and a major financial loss. Schedule regular interviews with our experienced agent to help ensure your policies reflect your current operations, assets, and risks. Use the following checklist to evaluate your current policies and identify any gaps in protection.
General Liability Insurance
Every business should carry general liability coverage, regardless of size or industry. This insurance covers claims related to property damage, bodily injury, and personal injury that occur during normal business operations. Without a general liability policy, your company could face significant costs from lawsuits or settlements. Policy limits should reflect the scale of your business and the risks you face.
Commercial Property Insurance
Whether you lease office space or own your building, commercial property insurance can help protect your physical assets, including your building, equipment, furniture, and inventory. Ensure your policy covers less common risks, such as vandalism and certain weather events, as well as fire and theft. If you have multiple locations, each site should be covered.
Business Interruption Insurance
An unexpected event, such as a fire, storm, or power outage, could force you to close temporarily. Business interruption insurance can help you replace lost income and pay ongoing expenses, such as rent, payroll, and utilities, while operations are suspended. Check your policy’s coverage and waiting periods to determine how long your business will be protected during a shutdown.
Commercial Auto Insurance
If your business uses vehicles for client visits, deliveries, or transporting goods, you need commercial auto insurance coverage. Personal auto policies typically do not cover accidents involving company-owned or leased vehicles. Your policy should cover liability, collision, and uninsured motorist claims, and protect against claims from employees who use their personal vehicles for business purposes.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
Most states require businesses that have employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If an employee suffers an on-the-job injury, it pays for medical expenses and lost wages. This protection demonstrates responsibility and can help prevent costly lawsuits. Your policy should accurately reflect your payroll and include all job classifications.
Cyber Liability Insurance
The risk of cyberattacks and data breaches increases as more business operations move online. Cyber liability insurance can cover expenses related to data recovery, notification requirements, legal fees, and ransom payments in the event of a cyber incident. Coverage can vary widely among providers, so review limits and exclusions carefully.
Professional Liability Insurance
Any business that provides professional services or advice should consider professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions (E&O). This coverage protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or misrepresentation. It is essential in law, real estate, accounting, and consulting industries.
Review Your Policies with Our Experienced Agent
Insurance policies can be complex, and missing key coverage could put your business at risk. Work with our knowledgeable Fischer Insurance Agency agent to help ensure your insurance coverage aligns with your company’s industry, size, and growth plans. Regular policy reviews can identify coverage caps and potential savings and offer assurance that your business is protected from unexpected losses. Take the time to discuss your insurance needs with us at (570) 323-3600 so you can focus on running your business with confidence.
Preventing a Home Insurance Claim from Getting Denied
Home insurance offers peace of mind in case of unexpected damage or loss, but that protection only applies if your claim is approved. Many homeowners are surprised to learn their claims are denied for reasons that are often preventable. Knowing how to avoid the pitfalls can help ensure your homeowners’ policy works for you when you need it most.
Common Reasons for Claim Denials
After a fire, flood, or other disaster, learning that your claim has been denied may be the worst possible news. The following are some common reasons for homeowners’ insurance claim denials:
- Exclusion clauses: Your claim will be denied if the cause of the damage is excluded from coverage in your policy.
- Non-payment of premiums: Homeowners coverage is contingent upon timely premium payments.
- Late filing: Insurance companies require prompt notification of losses and impose time-sensitive filing and documentation requirements for claims.
- Insufficient documentation of damage: Accurately documenting the damage to your property in a detailed manner, with photographs, is essential.
- Insufficient preventative measures following a loss: Policyholders must take steps to protect the property from further damage and mitigate the extent of loss. Failure to do so could be grounds for denial.
- Questionable claims or false statements: The insurance company will send an adjuster to investigate your claim, which may be denied if anything questionable is found.
Avoid the Pitfalls
Take the following steps to help ensure you have the homeowners coverage you need, when you need it:
Review Your Policy Regularly
As your home changes, so do your coverage needs. Renovations, additions, and new appliances can all affect policy requirements. Review your homeowners policy after any major updates to your property and at least once a year to help prevent denied claims. Every home insurance policy has exclusions and limitations. Our agent can help you review your policy to identify these exclusions and advise you on additional coverage if necessary to help prevent unpleasant surprises.
Document the Condition of Your Property
Keep detailed records of the condition of your home, including photos or videos of each room and any valuable items. Store digital copies in the cloud so they remain accessible in case your home is damaged by fire or another peril. Documentation plays a key role in successful claims. It serves as crucial evidence in proving the pre-damage condition of your property and the extent of loss.
Perform Routine Maintenance
Claims may be denied if the insurer determines that neglect rather than a covered event caused damage. When a roof leaks due to long-term wear, your claim for storm damage may not be covered. Regularly inspect and maintain critical systems, including your roof, electrical, and plumbing, and keep records of maintenance and repairs to demonstrate your diligence.
Report Claims Promptly, Honestly, and Thoroughly
Delay in filing a claim can cause issues with approval. Most insurers require that claims be submitted within a specific time frame after a loss. Accuracy is essential. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to a denial. Provide a detailed description of the incident, along with supporting evidence, and do not exaggerate your losses. Insurance companies often verify claims with inspections or reports, and honesty keeps your credibility intact.
Connect with us at (570) 323-3600 for assistance on personal insurance that can protect you and your family should the unexpected occur.
Special Enrollment Events: Understanding Qualifying Life Events
Major life changes can directly affect your health insurance coverage. Milestones such as marriage, the birth of a child, or a job change could make you eligible for a special enrollment period (SEP). This special timeframe allows you to enroll in a new health plan or adjust your existing coverage outside of the standard open enrollment period to help you stay protected as your circumstances evolve.
What is a Qualifying Life Event?
A specific situation that makes you eligible to make changes to your health insurance plan without waiting for open enrollment is known as a qualifying life event (QLE). These events often involve significant changes in your household, residence, or access to health coverage. When a QLE occurs, you have 60 days in most cases to update your plan. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until the next open enrollment, which could leave you with a gap in coverage.
Common Qualifying Life Events
A qualifying life event is a life-changing situation, either planned or unexpected, that can impact your health coverage. The following are common examples of QLEs:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Change in residence
- Gaining U.S. citizenship
- Loss of health insurance
- The death of a person who shares your health plan
- Turning age 26 or age 65
- Becoming eligible for Medicaid
- Losing eligibility for premium tax credits
Taking Advantage of a Special Enrollment Period
If a qualifying life event occurs, you will need to provide proof of the change. This might involve producing a marriage certificate, proof of address, or a notice showing loss of previous coverage. Generally, you have 60 days from the date of the event to verify your eligibility and make changes to your plan. If you fail to act within that timeframe, you will likely have to wait until the next open enrollment.
Why It Matters
Having the right health coverage can protect you from unexpected medical bills and help you maintain access to care. The special enrollment period triggered by a qualifying life event gives you the flexibility to adjust your coverage when your circumstances change, so you are not left uninsured.
Common Mistakes During Special Enrollment
If you are managing a major life change, it may be easy to overlook key details during a special enrollment period. Many people forget to update their dependents, compare plan networks, or assess how their new coverage aligns with their healthcare providers. Taking the time to review premiums, deductibles, and plan benefits before enrolling can prevent future surprises. Submit documentation promptly, as missing paperwork can delay or cancel your enrollment.
Partner with an Experienced Insurance Agent
Navigating special enrollment periods can be complicated. Our trusted agent can help. We can confirm whether your situation qualifies, explain the documentation requirements, and help you compare plan options. We can also help ensure you do not miss deadlines or overlook cost-saving opportunities, such as premium tax credits or employer-sponsored benefits. With our guidance, you can make confident decisions and keep your health coverage up to date as life changes. Give us a call today at (570) 323-3600.
Adjusting Life Insurance Coverage After a Pay Raise
A salary increase can be a cause for celebration. It reflects your hard work and dedication and provides new financial opportunities. It also changes your overall financial picture, making this a good time to review your life insurance coverage. Lifestyle, responsibilities, and long-term goals can change as your income grows. Reviewing your policy after a pay raise can help protect your loved ones.
How a Pay Raise Can Affect Life Insurance Needs
Life insurance is a safety net that should evolve with your financial circumstances. When income increases, your budget may expand to include higher living expenses, new investments, or larger financial commitments. For example, you may take on a bigger mortgage, upgrade your home, or start contributing to retirement savings. If your current coverage is based on your previous salary, it may not be enough to meet future needs or maintain your family’s standard of living. Life insurance should be sufficient to replace your new level of income and cover your obligations in case something should happen to you.
Evaluating Your Current Policy
Begin by reviewing the amount of life insurance coverage you have in place. Although individual situations can vary, many experts recommend 10 to 15 times your annual income, which increases with a pay raise. Next, determine whether your beneficiaries and policy terms still align with your goals. A change in marital status, the birth of a child, or the purchase of property are all reasons to reassess. Our trusted insurance agent can review your policy with you and help you identify any gaps or outdated details.
Options for Increasing Coverage
There are several ways to adjust or update a policy that no longer meets your needs. Depending on insurer rules and policy type, you may be able to increase your coverage amount without undergoing a full medical exam. Term life insurance can be a cost-effective way to increase coverage temporarily, particularly if you have new financial goals, such as paying off a mortgage or funding a child’s education. If you want lifetime coverage that builds cash value, a permanent life insurance option, such as whole or universal life, may be the best option.
Balancing Coverage and Affordability
While a pay raise offers more financial flexibility, your insurance premiums must still fit into your overall budget. The goal is to ensure adequate protection without overextending. Our friendly agent can help you compare policy types and premium structures to find the best fit for you.
Review Your Life Insurance Regularly
A pay raise is only one of the many life events that should trigger a review of your life insurance. Other milestones, such as marriage, a home purchase, or retirement planning, could also affect your coverage needs. One thing in life is certain: it never stays the same. Review your policy with one of our Fischer Insurance Agency agents at (570) 323-3600 to help ensure your protection keeps pace with your changing lifestyle. By revisiting your life insurance after a salary increase, you can help ensure your family’s financial future is protected as your income grows.
5 Holiday Retail Risks to Avoid
For most retailers, the holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of year. With higher customer traffic and increased online sales come greater risks. Both brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce businesses face unique challenges over the holidays. Help protect your profits, customers, and reputation by taking steps to identify and manage these risks.
Theft and Shoplifting
Crowded stores, rushed shoppers, and distracted employees create the perfect opportunity for theft. Both shoplifting and employee theft tend to rise during the holiday rush. Help deter thieves by installing security cameras, placing mirrors in blind spots, and maintaining an adequate number of staff on the floor. Train staff to spot suspicious behavior and handle theft safely. Inventory tracking systems can identify discrepancies early before they become major losses.
Cybersecurity Threats
Online retailers face a surge in cyberattacks during the holidays. Hackers take advantage of increased web traffic and the urgency of holiday shopping to launch ransomware attacks, data breaches, and phishing scams. Protect your business with strong cybersecurity measures, such as updated software, multi-factor authentication, and secure payment gateways. Regularly monitor for unusual account activity and train staff to recognize phishing attempts. Our agent can help you find effective cyber liability insurance at the best available rates to provide financial protection in the event of a data breach.
Payment Fraud and Chargebacks
The rush of holiday sales can attract scammers. Fraudulent credit card transactions, chargeback scams, and fake refund requests typically spike during the holiday season. In-store and online retailers should use secure payment systems that include address verification and fraud detection tools. E-commerce businesses should monitor transactions for unusual patterns, such as multiple high-value orders from the same IP address, to help flag suspicious activity early. Meet with our experienced agent to review your commercial crime insurance policy before the holiday season to help protect your business.
Delivery and Package Fraud
Package theft and delivery scams are growing issues for e-commerce retailers. Criminals may intercept deliveries or claim packages never arrived to obtain refunds. Work with reputable shipping partners, require delivery confirmation, and use tamper-evident packaging to reduce losses. Clear communication with customers about delivery expectations can help prevent disputes. Insurance coverage for goods in transit can provide an added layer of protection against damage or loss.
Customer or Employee Injuries
Icy parking lots and overcrowded aisles can lead to injuries that result in costly claims. Retailers should maintain proper lighting, keep walkways clear, and promptly clean spills to help prevent accidents. Provide clear signage for wet floors or high-traffic areas. Remind employees to use safe lifting techniques and wear appropriate footwear in the warehouse or back room. General liability and workers’ compensation coverage can help protect your business if an injury occurs.
Protect Your Business This Holiday Season
Holiday sales can bring great rewards but also significant risks. Take proactive steps to improve security, maintain safety, and review insurance coverage to safeguard your business during the busiest time of year. Contact our local Pennsylvania agent today at (570) 323-3600 to help ensure your retail operation has the right coverage to handle whatever challenges the holidays may bring.
Driving Safety Tips for Holiday Travel
Every year, millions of Americans take to the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, traveling to spend time with their family and friends. Along with the anticipation of a wonderful celebration, the season has unpredictable weather, very heavy traffic, and an increased risk of accidents. If you have plans to travel this Thanksgiving, practicing safe driving conduct is critical. Read some of the basics that can help you enjoy a safe, pleasurable road trip.
Inspect Your Vehicle Before Your Trip
Before you leave, a quick check of your vehicle can help you avoid a breakdown or other problem. Ensure your tires have good tread and the tire pressure is correct. Check your oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels. Test your brake lights, headlights, and turn signals to ensure they work properly. If your car is due for a maintenance check, schedule it before your trip.
Plan Ahead and Leave Early
Plan your route before you leave to help you stay safe during Thanksgiving travel. Check weather forecasts, road closures, and traffic conditions. If possible, travel during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, when the roads are often less congested. Leave early to reduce stress and allow time for unexpected delays.
Do Not Drive Distracted
Safe driving requires keeping your eyes on the road ahead, your hands on the wheel, and your full attention on the road ahead. Holiday travel often means traveling on unfamiliar routes and interacting with your passengers. Set your GPS before you start and pull over safely if you need to adjust it. Keep your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode. If you need to send a message or make a call, let a passenger do it, or pull over. Focus on the road while driving and save the multitasking after you arrive.
Stay Alert and Drive Defensively
Defensive driving is essential, as over 80 million Americans will travel this year, an all-time record. Maintain a safe following distance, especially in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. Avoid sudden lane changes. Watch for other drivers who may be distracted or fatigued and give them plenty of space. Pull over to switch drivers or rest if you start feeling tired.
Stay Sober Behind the Wheel
Thanksgiving celebrations often include alcoholic drinks, but as we know, drinking and driving never mix. Even one drink can affect your judgment and reaction time. If your celebrations include alcoholic beverages, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi service.
Prepare for Weather Changes
The weather can be unpredictable in late November. Rain, fog, or early snow can cause hazardous driving conditions. Slow down and increase the distance if you encounter slick roads or poor visibility due to fog, rain, or snow. Safety always takes priority over speed. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, with essentials such as blankets, water, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and snacks.
Make Sure You Are Covered Before You Hit the Road
Before setting out for Thanksgiving travel, ensure your auto insurance covers all the risks you could face while traveling during the busiest time of year. Reviewing your policy beforehand helps you confirm you have adequate liability, collision, and roadside assistance coverage. Call one of our friendly local Pennsylvania agents at (570) 323-3600 for guidance to ensure your current policy suits your travel needs. Knowing you are covered can provide peace of mind so you can enjoy the holiday with loved ones.
