Nothing puts a drag on the Christmas and New Year’s holidays quite like being the victim of a theft, fire, car accident, or lawsuit. Unfortunately, these types of things do happen, and the risk of them occurring may actually increase during the holiday season. Continue reading to learn more about some of the most common holiday insurance claims and what you can do to avoid them.
1. Theft of Valuables
Did you buy that special someone a new firearm for Christmas? Are you planning to pop the question with a shiny new diamond ring at midnight New Year’s Eve? From time to time, we give (or get) big-ticket purchases during the holiday season. In most cases, gifts are automatically included under personal belongings coverage on a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy. However, some high-valuable items may have limitations of coverage – often around $1,500 max for items like jewelry. Unfortunately, these are often the items that are targeted during a robbery. If you are giving or have received an expensive gift this season, check with your independent agent to find out if it’s covered or if you might need an endorsement added onto your policy.
2. Home Fires
House fire claims are common during the holiday season, but not for the reasons you might think. Many people believe that Christmas trees are to blame for most holiday house fires. While some trees do go up in flames each year, they represent only a tiny fraction of all fires. In fact, the bigger concern for homeowners is the use of candles around the home – with the number one day for candle-induced fires being Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day being a close second. As a precaution, keep lit candles away from flammable objects and out of the reach of children and pets. An even better solution is swapping out open flame candles for flameless ones.
3. Bodily Injury Liability
In a season full of merry-making, many people host friends, family, and acquaintances in their homes this time of year. Unfortunately, having someone visit your home means you are also responsible if they are injured on the premises. Perhaps Fido got loose and bit your neighbor’s daughter on the hand. Maybe an ice covered sidewalk caused someone to slip. Whatever the cause, look to your homeowner’s policy for liability coverage and help paying a guest’s medical bills.
4. Car Accidents
There’s no good time to be involved in a car accident – even just a fender bender. Unfortunately, the risk of being in an accident is high during the holidays due to a number of factors. Not only are there more cars on the road, but many drivers are distracted, fatigued, or in some cases, intoxicated. Not to mention, the stress of the holidays seems to cause more aggression and road rage, which can ultimately lead to a higher risk of accidents.
Now is a good time to contact your independent agent and make sure your policy still fits your needs. There are many affordable car insurance policies available that can provide enough liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical payments coverage to take care of you and your vehicle after an accident.
