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Heading Out of Town? Here Are Some of the Country’s Best Known Roads

For many people, summer is the time to pack your bags and hit the road with friends, family or solo. As for where to go, the options are endless. The United States is blessed with an impressive network of roads and byways that offer unique opportunities for exploring the country’s natural beauty.

Getting a tuneup and investing in the proper auto insurance coverage are just two ways to prepare for your road trip. You also need a solid plan that your fellow travelers will appreciate! So, whether you’re trekking from California to New York or from Las Vegas to Miami, learn about some of the most popular roads to add to your itinerary that will make your summer road trip memorable and enjoyable for everyone.

Road Tripping in the U.S.: Popular Byways and Routes to Take by Car

Ready to explore the beauty and vastness of an unfamiliar part of the country? Would you rather visit rocky mountains, sandy beaches, or something in between? It’s always wise to do a bit of research beforehand so you know what the road conditions are like, what weather to expect, where to fill up the tank and so forth.

Below are just five of the countless must-visit roads and byways that have the potential to make for a perfect summer road trip:

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

Regarded as one of the most scenic highways in America, the Pacific Coast highway offers a jaw-dropping view of the Pacific Ocean as you make your way from San Francisco to San Diego. This route will take you through rugged sea cliffs, sandy beaches and small towns that offer incredible opportunities for sightseeing.

2. Route 66, Illinois to California

There’s a lot to say about this iconic route that runs from Illinois to California:

Encompasses over 2,400 miles of America’s heartland
Offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, quaint towns, and open skies
Is full of quirky roadside attractions
Leads to diners, motels, and gas stations that harken back to a bygone era

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina, and Virginia

If you are a nature lover, then the Blue Ridge Parkway is the perfect road for you. Running 469 miles through the Blue Ridge Mountains, the parkway offers scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains, as well as rivers and wildlife. Take a break and hike one of the many trails that offer awe-inspiring views of the countryside.

4. The Great River Road, Mississippi River

Want to enjoy the scenic views of the Mississippi river? If so, head to the Great River Road. A designated National Scenic Byway, this famous road passes through ten states and offers panoramic views of the Mississippi River, waterfalls, and the rolling hills of America’s heartland.

5. The Loneliest Road, Nevada

Get ready for a unique desert experience that will take you through a journey of geology, history, and rugged beauty!

The Loneliest Road has a special appeal for folks in search of adventure. Running through the vast and barren high desert of Nevada, this multi-day road trip passes through ghost towns, sand dunes, and geothermal pools.

Get Proper Auto Insurance Coverage: Talk to an Agent Before Driving Out of State (or in Another Country)

Be sure to review your insurance policy with your insurance agent to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs. Generally, the basic components of any auto insurance plan will include these four coverage areas:

Liability Insurance
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Where specifically will you be driving? States typically require motorists to carry proper auto insurance coverage, but the rules might differ from place to place – particularly if you’re headed to another country. Wherever you go, you want to be protected should an unexpected incident occur. A qualified insurance agent will let you know if there is any need to update or alter your coverage before leaving.

Once all your bases are covered, you can get behind the wheel and let the adventure begin!

At Amigo, our agents can help you compare quotes and find the best deal before hitting the road. They will guide you toward an excellent auto insurance plan that covers all your needs, no matter where you’ll be. Give us a call today to find out more!

A long road in the desert. The sky is blue with clouds, and the surrounding dry landscape is orange.

Most Important Types of Coverage for Your Vehicle

As the owner of a vehicle, you are probably aware that investing in auto insurance coverage is important. Not only does having the right coverage protect you and your vehicle in case of an accident or unexpected incident, but different coverages can provide many other types of assistance.

However, with so many types of insurance coverage available, it can be difficult to know which options are the most important to include in your plan. In order to make an informed decision, it helps to become familiar with the many forms of coverage that are available on the market. To get you started, here are five of the most important types of insurance coverage you may need for your vehicle.

1. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a type of insurance that covers the cost of damage or injury that you may cause to another party while driving your vehicle. This may include damage to their vehicle or property, as well as reimbursement for any medical expenses that might result from an accident.

Almost every state requires some form of liability insurance, so it is important to have this coverage to ensure that you are legally covered. When researching different plans, look for one that covers medical expenses in case of an accident, regardless of fault.

2. Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is another important type of insurance coverage for your vehicle. This type of coverage is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. While this coverage is not required by law, it is important to have if you want to protect your investment in your vehicle.

3. Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is similar to collision coverage in that it is designed to help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an incident. However, comprehensive coverage also includes coverage for other incidents, such as:

Theft
Vandalism
And natural disasters

This type of coverage is not typically required by law, but it can still provide valuable protection for your vehicle.

4. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Unfortunately, not everyone on the road has insurance coverage, which can make it difficult to get compensation if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist. Uninsured and/or underinsured motorist coverage is designed to help cover the cost of damages and injuries in case you are in an accident with someone who has no or insufficient coverage.

5. Depending on Your Situation, Specialty Coverage Such as Commercial Insurance

Do you frequently drive for work? If so, you may need commercial auto insurance. Talk to an agent about your professional circumstances to find out what you need to be fully covered. There are various criteria that might necessitate a commercial policy, such as:

Driving often for work
Driving people or goods as part of your job
Transporting equipment for professional reasons

Find Out What Auto Insurance Coverage Your State Requires

Investing in these types of insurance coverage for your vehicle can provide you with valuable protection and peace of mind while on the road. Be sure to review your insurance policy and speak with your insurance agent to ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your needs.

Generally speaking, states require every driver to carry proper auto insurance coverage. Driving without it can cause the driver to face stiff penalties. Speak to an insurance agent in your state if you are in need of insurance or may need to update your coverage.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

A stressed woman sitting on the ground next to her parked car.

4 Things You Need to Drive Legally

The number of drivers is increasing in the U.S., making it more important than ever for the general public to take steps to operate their vehicle legally and safely. Nearly 90 percent of adults in the country carry a driver’s license, showing just how much we depend on driving to get around.

But you need more than a valid driver’s license to be able to legally operate a vehicle in this country. As the steps – and the timing – for staying up to date with the laws vary state to state, it’s vital to know what the rules are in your area. This knowledge not only keeps drivers from getting penalized and owing fines, but it protects the quality of cars on the road, as well as the environment as a whole.

Take a look at the top four things nearly every driver will need before getting behind the wheel.

1. Getting a Valid Driver’s License – and Keeping it Up to Date

States generally require people to have a valid and current driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle. Driving without one can have serious consequences that may include paying a hefty fine, being arrested and having the infraction on your record. The requirement for carrying a license has multiple purposes:

It shows you are a licensed driver
Designates which class of vehicles you may legally operate
Allows you to drive in any state and even out of the country
Functions as a form of proper documentation and identification for many purposes
Indicates a sense of personal responsibility
Enables you to drive at some point in the future

In some states, driving without a valid license is considered a misdemeanor. Depending on where you live, that might be punishable by jail, and your car could even be impounded. Your driving privileges may also be suspended.

2. Some States Require Passing Vehicle Safety Inspections

Find out what local requirements exist in your area. Certain states require cars to pass auto safety inspections to show that they are in good condition for safe driving. Find out what regulations are mandated in your area and what steps you need to take to pass the inspection. Your car may be tested to:

Ensure driving/operational safety
Ensure proper emissions
Verify your vehicle identification number(VIN)

3. Passing a Routine Emissions Test for Your Car

Most if not all states require that vehicles pass routine emissions tests to indicate they don’t have problems that could harm air quality, and therefore the environment. If you have undergone emissions testing then you are aware it is a quick and easy process that assesses your car for pollutant emissions. If your vehicle fails the emissions, it indicates that one of several problems may be at fault:

Faulty injectors
A problem with the oxygen sensors
An issue with something else that affects vehicle emissions

This test may only be required once every two years, and failing it can be a good thing. As a driver, you want to know if something in your car is not functioning properly. A test will generally outline the reason it failed, allowing you to make the necessary changes and schedule another car inspection.

4. Carrying Proper Auto Insurance Coverage

As a general rule, states require every driver to carry proper auto insurance coverage. Driving

without it can cause individuals to face penalties if they are caught and even cause their license to be suspended. Speak to an insurance agent if you are in need of insurance or may need to update your coverage.

Some drivers avoid carrying insurance out of a fear of making the payments. If this is the case, speak to a professional to find out if there is a low-cost alternative that is within your budget. Keep in mind that failing to carry auto insurance might save you money upfront, but it could end up costing you more in the long run and probably isn’t worth the risk.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

Top Tips for Avoiding Traffic Tickets

Auto insurance rates can be significantly impacted by traffic tickets, which not only include the cost of the fine and court surcharge, but can also remain on the driver’s record for years if the driver is convicted. This could lead to higher premiums on your car insurance policy. In some cases, traffic citations can remain with a driver from one insurance provider to the next.

To keep your insurance rates low, it’s best to steer clear of traffic violations. Driving with extra care and alertness will help to prevent the most typical traffic tickets. This will help drivers to keep their car insurance premiums low, elude penalties, and decrease the chance of a crash.

Obey Stop Signs, Red Lights and Other Traffic Signals

People are always in a rush these days, but trying to speed up the process by running a red light or failing to stop at stop signs is never a good idea. This can result in a ticket and cause a hike in your insurance premiums. Plus, there is the risk of an accident, which can influence your insurance rates if you are identified as being responsible. At stop signs, make sure to come to a full halt, and be aware as you near an intersection that you may need to stop.

Follow Rules of the Road

For example – making improper turns is a common traffic violation that can be tempting to ignore. But keep in mind that you could be cited for making a turn from the wrong lane. It is imperative to follow lane rules and to turn only when it is safe. Make use of your turn signals, as well, to give other drivers a chance to respond suitably, in order to prevent any potential accidents.

Pay Attention to Speed Limits

Everyone exceeds the speed limit now and then. But reckless driving, or driving at a speed that is too quick for the conditions, is an issue that can be seen on many roads. It is a major safety concern and can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Individuals who are caught speeding often face hefty fines and other penalties. It is essential to drive at a safe speed in order to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

It is also a very common infraction when it comes to traffic laws.

The easiest way to avoid a speeding ticket is to adhere to the speed limit and be mindful of your speedometer. Note changes in the speed limit when entering a town on a highway or when driving through a residential area, as it can differ significantly. Pay attention to posted signs and drive accordingly to avoid getting a ticket.

Always Buckle Up

Whenever you get behind the wheel, don’t forget to buckle up and make sure everyone else in the car does the same. Not wearing a seatbelt can have serious consequences. It is essential to always put on a seatbelt while driving or riding in a car to ensure safety. Taking the time to strap in can save lives and prevent injury.

The insurance rate consequences of this ticket are contingent on the insurance company. But, there can be a significant penalty – in some places, costing hundreds of dollars. Seat belt regulations must be followed while driving, and this applies to all passengers. Should a minor neglect to fasten their seat belt, the driver could face repercussions.

Get Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage at AMIGO

Finally, make sure you have comprehensive auto coverage in the event that you need it. If you’re already insured, check and be sure you have appropriate coverage to ensure all your needs are being met.

Drivers can discover the most suitable auto insurance rate by contrasting car insurance quotes from different companies. To guarantee you pay the lowest rate, even if you’ve been convicted of a traffic offense, compare car insurance quotes. Insurance companies compute premiums differently, which means one may have a more positive outlook on your driving record than another.

Contact Amigo Auto Insurance to speak with an agent who can help you compare quotes and find the best deal for you today.

Why Set up an Annual Car Insurance Review

When was the last time you had a review with your auto insurance provider? Many people miss out on this opportunity to have a casual chat with an agent, both to get all their questions answered and to make sure they’re getting what they need in their insurance plan.

When scheduled annually, an auto insurance review is an opportunity to ensure you’re getting the services you need – and also that you’re not spending dollars on coverage that isn’t serving you or your family. There’s no one issue that has to come up. As the owner of insurance, you get to bring up what is important to you. As a rule, you’ll get more out of it by taking a thorough look at your insurance coverage with an expert (the auto insurance agent).

In many cases, people bundle home and auto policies. They can ask about policies that either are already, or should be protecting, their:

Vehicles (car, truck, motorcycle or other)
Family members
Home
Other valuables
Rate comparisons

How to Prepare for Your Annual Review

Your insurance package should be able to cover some or all of the expenses resulting from an accident or other event. But there are many types of packages for different types of driver, needs and circumstances. This call will be a chance to make sure that the policy you’re paying p[remiums for each month matches your situation as much as possible. Most people use this conversation as an opportunity to ask questions about their plan and to find out whether they’re getting the best rates possible. Talking to an agent will remind you of things that may have changed in the last year that warrant an adjustment. You might even end up saving a few dollars.

Before contacting an insurance agent, make a list of questions beforehand so you cover all your bases. As part of a comprehensive coverage package, ask about:

Collision coverage
Liability insurance
Personal injury coverage

There may be other types of coverage needed whether based on changes in your household or specific upcoming events. Uninsured and underinsured motorist protection, travel insurance, and other temporary coverage can be added or subtracted depending on your circumstances and needs.

What Else to Ask About in Your Review

Many things can change in the course of a year, from the number of driving age family members living in your household, to a job that changes your commute, to your home address. Here are some factors to keep an eye on and bring up during your review. SImply let the person you’re speaking with know what has changed, or may change in the coming months, and ask whether anything should be added or removed from your policy:

A change in address
A new teen driver
A new car purchase
A significant change in driving habits
An accident or event that may have impacted your rates
A birthday – even your own – that may lower them

Amigo Insurance Helps Drivers Compare Quotes for Best Policy

A review with an experienced agent at Amigo will get you the answers you need based on their expertise and knowledge. Ultimately, it creates a more informed consumer and can also control the costs you could incur if there is an accident or event that damages your vehicle.

Any time there is any significant change to a person’s driving habits, that can be a sign to get in touch with an insurance agent. If there’s anything else related to your insurance that you have lingering questions about, an insurance agent should be able to discuss your options. And even if they don’t know the answer, they will likely be able to direct you to the person who can. Meanwhile, keep in mind that failing to carry auto insurance – thinking it will save you dollars – can have the opposite effect, causing the driver to cough up money for repairs out of pocket and lead to potential legal penalties, as well.

At Amigo, our agents are ready to help you compare quotes and find the best deal available! They will help you find an excellent insurance plan that covers all your auto needs.

A woman talking on the phone while writing something down.

Tips to Share the Road with Cyclists

As summer gets closer, we begin to see more and more cyclists accompanying us on the road. Therefore it’s important to recognize different types of actions that can help keep us, and our biker friends safe.

Similarly, cyclists can benefit from following these tips to enjoy a safe ride for them and stress-free drive for motorists.

1) Avoid technology while on the road

One of the most obvious tips is to avoid using electronic devices while driving your vehicle or riding your bike. By putting your phone, tablet or headphones down, you are able to focus on the road and stay on alert in the case of an accident or other unexpected occurrences.

2) Give plenty of space

It’s important for drivers to give cyclists plenty of space when sharing the road – especially when overtaking a bike on the street. To prevent any accidents or collisions, drivers must pass cyclists as if passing another vehicle. That is, moving into a different lane when safe to do so.

3) Learn hand signals

Just like drivers use their turn signals to indicate their next move, cyclists use hand signals to let drivers know what their next move is too. For example:

Right Turn: Fully extend right arm out to the side or bend left arm up at a right angle with your hand flat
Left Turn: Fully extend your left arm out to the side
Slow or Stop: Extend left arm out at the right angle with the hand open

4) Understand each other’s rights to the road

Did you know bicyclists have the same rights as drivers? It’s true! In fact, they are required by law to follow the same rules. So, it’s important for impatient drivers to realize that cyclists have every right to be on the road as they do. Similarly, bicyclists must not abuse this right by being careless.

While sharing the road can sometimes be a bit of a nuisance, it’s something all drivers (and cyclists) have to do. So, why not do everything possible to make the road safer for everyone?

Road Tripping in the U.S.: Popular Byways and Routes to Take by Car

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California

2. Route 66, Illinois to California

3. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina, and Virginia

4. The Great River Road, Mississippi River

5. The Loneliest Road, Nevada

Get Proper Auto Insurance Coverage: Talk to an Agent Before Driving Out of State (or in Another Country)

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

1. Liability Insurance

2. Collision Coverage

3. Comprehensive Coverage

4. Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

5. Depending on Your Situation, Specialty Coverage Such as Commercial Insurance

Find Out What Auto Insurance Coverage Your State Requires

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

1. Getting a Valid Driver’s License – and Keeping it Up to Date

2. Some States Require Passing Vehicle Safety Inspections

3. Passing a Routine Emissions Test for Your Car

4. Carrying Proper Auto Insurance Coverage

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

Obey Stop Signs, Red Lights and Other Traffic Signals

Follow Rules of the Road

Pay Attention to Speed Limits

Always Buckle Up

Get Comprehensive Auto Insurance Coverage at AMIGO

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

How to Prepare for Your Annual Review

What Else to Ask About in Your Review

Amigo Insurance Helps Drivers Compare Quotes for Best Policy

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

1) Avoid technology while on the road

2) Give plenty of space

3) Learn hand signals

4) Understand each other’s rights to the road

Blog Archive

Tags

Questions? Call Us

Visit an Office

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