When you decide to drive overseas, there are quite a few things you need to know. This includes knowing about driving requirements, road signs, and various roles within the country. The more you can do to prepare, the safe or you can be while you drive in the country of your choosing.

Insurance

You need to have some kind of coverage when you are driving abroad. This can protect you against crashes as well as damage even when your car is in a parking lot. Coverage may be provided by the rental car company and possibly even with your credit card, so it’s a good idea to look at your options.

Driving Privileges

In most countries, all you need to do is show your U.S. driver’s license. However, you may need an International Driving Permit. An IDP can be obtained for a small fee from AAA and various other auto clubs.

Preparing for the Drive Itself

Driving in another country can be scary and stressful because of the different road signs, languages, and even laws. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the rules wherever you’re going. You should also have a GPS so you always have access to directions.

You may be on the “wrong” side of the road and the rental car company may only have a manual for you to drive. Prepare for both of these so you can handle it when you get on the road. If you’re not comfortable behind the wheel at any time, it’s best to rely solely on public transportation. Even if you are comfortable, public transport is a good idea in the big cities.

Help is available to keep you safe on the roads. Call and talk to one of our agents at Jim Boyce Insurance today so that you can learn more about auto insurance, rate comparisons, and more.

 

 

 

North Carolina isn’t known for its blizzards, but road conditions can quickly become hazardous once temperatures drop to or below freezing. Because cities like Charlotte, NC don’t have the equipment that snowier places in the Northern United States have, even just a little snow, freezing rain or sleet can make streets slick. Therefore, if you live in Charlotte and own a car, it’s important to prepare a winter emergency kit. At Jim Boyce Insurance, we also recommend reviewing your insurance coverages before the cold weather and precipitation come.

Making a Winter Emergency Kit

A winter emergency kit should have everything you need to stay safe on the side of the road, and enough supplies to keep you fed, hydrated and warm until help comes. We recommend including a set of flares and a flashlight in your emergency kit, as these will help make you visible if you break down on the side of the road. Your kit should also have plenty of snacks and water, along with a blanket for when temperatures are low.

Checking Your Auto Insurance

While everyone should have the same basic supplies in their winter emergency kit, there isn’t a set of coverages that everyone should have in their auto insurance policy. Drivers in Charlotte at least need to maintain the state’s minimum required levels of auto insurance, but it’s often wise to purchase more coverage than is required by state law. Which additional coverages you should invest in will depend on your individual situation.

At Jim Boyce Insurance, we can help you determine what auto insurance coverages you ought to have. Our agents will discuss the different options with you and help you find an affordable policy that meets your needs. If you aren’t comfortable selecting coverages on your own, contact our agents through our website — before the temperatures drop anymore.