How Seasonal Road Trips Are Linked to Claim Spikes

Why Do Claims Surge During Seasonal Road Trips?

Here are some of the reasons why insurers correlate seasonal road trips with an increase in car insurance claims.

Crowded Highways and a Traffic Overload

Festive seasons and long weekends don't just bring joy; they also bring traffic jams. The roads become more congested. Traffic volumes typically double or triple the usual numbers around this time of year. Such traffic can cause you to slow down and increase the probability of minor scrapes, accidents, and collisions.

Fatigue Can Be the Real Danger

Long road trips mean long driving hours, sometimes even overnight rides, just to save time or make the most of holidays. This may lead to fatigue and drowsy driving, which can slow your reflexes and impair judgment.

Here’s a better idea: For longer trips, switch drivers every 2-3 hours or pull over for a power nap. This way, all travellers get enough time to rest.

Unfamiliarity with the Road

You know your daily commute by heart, you are aware of the curve, potholes, and bumps, meaning these are typically predictable. Though the seasonal road trips don't provide this comfort. You are often exposed to curvy mountainous roads, highways full of fog, and such other unpredictabilities. In that case, misjudging a curve or taking a tricky stretch might lead to accidents.

Weather Fluctuations

It need not be mentioned how seasonal trips are heavily influenced by weather unpredictability. For instance, consider a monsoon trip in cities where it rains heavily and where roads are often slippery. Each season presents its unique risks that require careful planning and preparation. An unprepared or casual attitude can turn your joyful ride into a claim-worthy accident.

Festive Vibe

People tend to get overexcited around the festive season. Unfortunately, some drivers even drive under the influence of alcohol. Overexcitement and intoxication is a bad combination. It can easily blur your judgment and slow down your response and reaction time. This can result in road accidents and higher claim spikes.

The Tendency to Overpack

Many of us just love overpacking, even with seasonal road trips. Result? The passengers, snacks, luggage, and more sometimes make the car overloaded. This impacts its steering and braking, and increases accidental risks.

How to Keep Your Road Trip Claim-Free?

Seasonal road trips can be both exciting and a life learning lesson. Here is the part that every traveller should consider preparing. Consider reading these easy yet effective tips that make your road trips not just about pictures but also about safe returns.

Preparation Before You Leave

• Get your car properly serviced and checked. Check tyres, brakes, headlights, and wipers.
• Keep an emergency kit handy. Pack items such as a flashlight, first aid kit, water, snacks, etc.
• Keep your documents handy. To save space, prefer digital copies of your license, car insurance, and other relevant documents.

Preparation On the Road

• Take proper rest, and rotate drivers every few hours.
• Drive safely. Avoid unnecessary overtaking, risky curves, and unfamiliar shortcuts.
• Drive sober, avoid drinking if driving. If your trip involves alcohol, consider appointing a designated driver.

Insurance Preparation for All Times

While being on road trips, having some car insurance add-ons can help significantly. Here are some of the most popular and utilised options.

• Roadside assistance cover for immediate and 24/7 support, even during breakdowns in your city.
• Engine protection that can come quite handy during monsoons.
• Zero depreciation cover helps you with cashless claims.

Pro Tip: Always compare different insurers and compare their coverage, add-on options, and benefits. Jio Insurance Broking helps you do that seamlessly as you get access to multiple insurers, the best car insurance policies, quotes, add-ons, and policy premiums. You can compare and choose what suits you the best.

Over to You

Whether it's freedom or unfamiliarity, seasonal road trips can be exceptional. They are about creating memories, laughter, and building quality time together. With some planning and preparedness, you can ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones during such trips. The right car insurance, with the right add-ons, can protect your vehicle and cover accidents and give you the peace of mind when you’re on the road.

Happy Travelling!