Back to School Insurance Checklist for Families

Insurance Tips for Families Preparing for a New School Year

As families across Orange County and the Hudson Valley prepare for a new school year, routines begin to change quickly. Teen drivers may be commuting to school, college students may be moving into dorms, and families may be purchasing new laptops, tablets, and other electronics.

Back to school preparation often focuses on supplies, schedules, and transportation, but it is also a good time to think about insurance. A few simple checks can help families understand how their current coverage may apply as the school year begins.

Review Auto Coverage for Teen Drivers

When a teenager starts driving to school, using a family vehicle more often, or participating in after school activities, it may affect the way the vehicle is being used.

Parents should make sure all licensed drivers in the household are properly listed on the auto policy. It is also important to confirm which vehicle the teen will drive most often and whether the estimated annual mileage is still accurate.

Families should also ask about available discounts. Depending on the insurance carrier, teen drivers may qualify for savings through good student discounts, driver education courses, or safe driving programs.

Taking a few minutes to review your auto policy before the school year begins can help ensure everyone is properly protected.

Protect Laptops and Other School Electronics

Today's students rely on laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other electronics every day. These items are valuable and can be expensive to replace if they are stolen or damaged.

Personal property coverage through a homeowners or renters insurance policy may help protect these belongings, but coverage depends on the situation and the policy itself. Coverage limits and deductibles may also apply.

Keeping receipts, serial numbers, and photos of expensive electronics can make the claims process much easier if something unexpected happens.

Understand Dorm Coverage for College Students

Many parents are surprised to learn that a college student's belongings may still be covered under a homeowners insurance policy while living in a dorm. However, coverage limits and restrictions can vary.

Before move in day, take inventory of what your student is bringing to school, including computers, televisions, furniture, clothing, and other personal belongings.

If your student will be living off campus, renters insurance may be a smart option. It can help protect personal belongings while also providing liability coverage in many situations.

Don't Forget About College Vehicles

If your college student is taking a vehicle to school, be sure your insurance agent knows where the vehicle will primarily be kept.

Likewise, if your student is leaving their vehicle at home while attending school, there may be discounts available depending on the carrier and the distance from home.

Keeping your policy up to date helps ensure your coverage accurately reflects your family's current situation.

Practice Safe Driving Habits

The start of the school year brings busier roads, school buses, pedestrians, bicyclists, and heavier traffic.

Take time to remind teen drivers to avoid distractions, obey school zone speed limits, stay alert around crosswalks, and leave plenty of space between vehicles.

Safe driving habits can help reduce accidents and make the roads safer for everyone.

Keep Your Family Protected This School Year

Back to school season is full of new routines and responsibilities. Taking a few moments to review your insurance can help ensure your family's coverage keeps pace with these changes.

As an independent insurance broker, Quick Insurance compares coverage from multiple trusted insurance carriers to help families find protection that fits their needs and budget.

As schedules change this fall, make sure your coverage keeps up with your family. Visit our website at www.cquickinsurance.com or give us a call at (845) 497-1119 to review your coverage and make sure you have the right protection in place.