I hope everyone is hunkered down and managing as best as possible during these extraordinary as unprecedented times. We all have different responsibilities while sheltering in place. From parenting, to being first responders, medical caregivers and everything in between; we are all in this together and doing our part for the greater good.
At some point, in the hopefully not too distant future, we will return to some semblance of normalcy. But until then, many people are using this time to address long overdue tasks, which makes it a good time to take a look at your auto insurance policy. This may not seem like an essential task to complete right now. But, taking the time to consider what you currently have versus the protections it can afford you and your loved ones is absolutely worth the effort.
As we now know, the unexpected can happen at any moment.
Bear in mind that changes can be made to your auto insurance policy at any time. There is no need to wait for the renewal date. When you have a chance, take look at these specific parts of your Massachusetts policy:
Part 2: Personal injury protection (PIP)
This allows medical bills to be paid. Make sure you don’t have a deductible. Any deductible is not good in your PIP coverage. If you do have one, the cost of removing the deductible is minuscule versus the importance of having full PIP coverage.
Part 3 & Part 12: Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists Coverage
If you have a limit of $20,000/$40,000 increase it as soon as reasonably possible. A suitable amount should be at least $100,000/$300,000. If you can increase it to the maximum of $250,000/$500,00, even better. These amounts appear like an expensive proposition. However, check with your insurer for the cost to increase it. You’ll be surprised that it doesn’t cost much more to obtain the protection that it affords you and your family, should a significant injury occur. Think of it as a life insurance policy in case the other person at fault doesn’t have any coverage or sufficient coverage for injuries that you or a household member suffered.
Part 6: Medical Payments
This is most important if you have state or federally funded health insurance, such as Medicaid or Medicare. Have at least $5,000 in coverage, but it can increase in increments of $5,000. It’s also an inexpensive coverage to purchase, so check with your insurer for the pricing.
Despite the restrictions so many of us are having at this time, I am always available by phone or email to discuss these insurance recommendations or any other legal questions you may have. Stay safe and remember to follow the CDC’s guidelines.
Questions?
Call Attorney John G. Angelo at (508) 675-7600, or send an email at contact@JohnAngeloLaw.com.
