We are in the depths of Winter and although Spring is only about 2 months away, it feels like it will never come.  This is probably why so many people take vacations at this time of the year.  I can think of nowhere else I'd rather be in January, then sitting on a beach somewhere other than New England, with a fruity drink!

You might be thinking of all the things you need to do when you are traveling. If part of that is wondering how your homeowners and auto policies protect you while you are away, here are the answers.

Your Personal Property: your standard homeowners, condo and renters policies cover your belongings anywhere in the world!  This includes while you are in the cab on the way to the airport, in the airport, on the plane and at the hotel of your destination.  It covers your belongings while you are on a cruise ship on the ocean.  Your worldwide coverage is still subject to your policy deductible and all coverage limitations and exclusions so be sure to read your policy so you understand how your coverage applies to you personally.

Personal Liability: Your policy will also cover you for  if a lawsuit is brought against you for any damage you cause to the property of others or if you cause bodily injury to someone while you are traveling.  Your policy will also pay your defense costs even if the suit is groundless or fraudulent.  Again coverage is still subject to the policy limitations and exclusions; There are some exclusions for using watercraft such as a boat, jet ski etc so be sure to double check your policy and see how these exclusions may affect you if you decide to rent a watercraft while you are away.

Renting a Vehicle: If you are traveling inside the US, its territories and Canada, your MA auto policy will extend coverage to your rental, including Bodily Injury to Others, Property Damage, Collision & Comprehensive, but the standard policy will not cover you for loss of rental income or provide you with a waiver of deductible.  You can check with your credit card companies and see if they offer those benefits. If you are traveling outside of the US, its territories or Canada, your MA auto policy does not provide you with any coverage and buying coverage from the car rental company may be what you will need to do.  We always suggest carefully reading through any contract you sign with for a car rental.  Also check with your credit card companies to see what kinds of coverage benefits they offer to you as they apply to a rented vehicle. 

We hope you get the chance to escape Winter and feel free to give us a call at 978-352-8000 or email us if you have any questions about your specific policy.  We are always here to help!