Minivan Insurance during your Summer Vacation

The mercury starts to rise, the leaves start to sprout and before you know it, it's time to start planning your summer vacation. Taking the family away for a much needed break is what keeps many people sane throughout the year, and one of the most popular ways to do it is by driving a minivan across the country. However, if you're thinking of buying a minivan, you should consider some pertinent factors before making your decision, as the model you finally decide on could have consequences on your auto insurance costs.

A large minivan can be capable of seating up to 15 passengers, but while SUVs are often considered to be far more attractive, the insurance costs associated with even the largest minivans can be significantly lower. Minivans are functional vehicles, capable of storing large amounts of luggage for long road trips. Seats can often be folded away to make room for extra luggage, and open-plan interiors are perfect for monitoring children during transit. Minivans are usually equipped with standard performance features and modest power capabilities, so they are less expensive to buy and cheaper to fill up. They also incur far lower insurance costs. A Ford Explorer, for instance, can cost up to $900 per year more to insure than the Ford Freestar Minivan - a considerable difference in price.

4 Tips For your Minivan Insurance

• Maximize Your Coverage - Avoid the temptation of paying for the state's minimum level of coverage. Taking a long road trip in such a large vehicle is fraught with potential for accidents, and causing a write-off with insufficient coverage will leave you with a hefty bill. 
• Increase Your Deductible - You can save up to 40% on your annual premiums by increasing your deductible. However, it is important to ensure that your levels of coverage don't change accordingly by checking the small print on your policy.
• Be Realistic About Your Mileage - If you are planning several long trips in your minivan, take the time to calculate your estimated annual mileage with a degree of accuracy. Exceeding the maximum mileage as stated in your insurance policy could invalidate your insurance.
• Choose a Minivan Carefully - Insurance companies like risk to be reduced wherever possible, so purchasing a minivan with additional safety features could result in lower premiums. Stability control and curtain airbags are features that are favored by auto insurance providers.

Embarking on a road trip with your family this summer should be a time of great joy and excitement, but it can quickly turn sour if your coverage falls short of your requirements. Protect your property and your family by calling us at 855-367-7744. Our insurance experts can advise you on the best Fort Lauderdale auto insurance coverage for your needs.