ACCIDENT IN OTHER STATE…WHAT TO KNOW
No one plans on having an accident but it happens. And the reality is there is probability of it happening while we are far from home. Whether it be travel for your work or a family vacation, an accident can happen. Do you know how to prepare or what to do in case of an accident while in another state?
HAVE THE RIGHT COVERAGE
When is the last time you have read your insurance policy or discussed it with your agent? It is important to not only know the amounts covered for an accident but the ‘extras’ that may be needed after an accident. These are usually the extras that are trimmed to make the premium lower but definitely help with an accident.
First, not every accident is a minor ‘fender bender’. Unfortunately, accidents may cause enough damage to where the vehicle cannot be driven. When that happens, the car will need to be towed to a shop for repairs. Many insurance providers offer towing insurance to protect yourself from a large expense. You will not know the towing service companies out of state like you may know here at home, so this extra coverage will help.
Next, do you have rental coverage? One cost that can become quite expensive is a rental car while a vehicle is being repaired, this extra coverage helps with that cost! And if you are in a state where you know no one, you will most need a rental to get home.
STATE INSURANCE MINIMUMS
Most of us know what amounts are covered with insurance. This is because our providers inform us of the state minimums for Oklahoma. We then go from there if wanting to increase amounts for physical damage or injury.
States vary however on these minimums. Some states are higher than others. So, what happens if you are at fault and have an accident in another state and the minimum you have for Oklahoma is not enough in the other state? The good news is our auto insurance works in every state and you are covered. Also, insurance providers have it to where your policy coverage will automatically increase in case of an accident in one of these other states with a higher minimum. This is temporary, of course, but your coverage will be satisfactory in any state. If you are hit by someone while they are out of state, their coverage will also increase, if needed.
REPAIR WHILE THERE?
The last thing to consider is leaving your vehicle to be repaired in the other state or having it towed home to your trusted collision shop. Weigh all expenses, including more towing and/or transportation.

When your vehicle needs repairs, the choice between a small, independent collision shop and a large corporate chain can be challenging. But at Freeman’s Collision Center, we believe that local businesses like ours offer something corporate shops simply can’t: personalized care, exceptional craftsmanship, and a commitment to the community.

Have you ever been told by an insurance adjuster or a direct repair program (DRP) shop that your car repair won't be guaranteed or have a warranty unless you use their specific shop? This is a common tactic used to steer customers towards certain repair facilities, but it's simply not true. In Oklahoma, as in many other states, you have the right to choose any auto repair shop you want.

Oh the stress of studying for your driver’s license! It may have even been decades ago, but we all still remember the many rules we had to learn in order to obtain a license. Unfortunately as the days and years pass, we forget many of the laws we were required to know and observe as drivers. And each day, many drivers break these laws. Because the rules are in place for safety, it is important for a refresher course. Avoid needless collisions and tickets by relearning the driving laws you may have forgotten.

We drive to work, we drive for fun, and we drive to vacation destinations. No matter the reason for our driving, the most important thing is to be safe. While our vehicles are still evolving with the latest safety features, there are gadgets and accessories that can assist with that safety. Whether it’s for beloved family or the person who has everything, these are 5 gifts that can give that driver some peace of mind.

Road Rage is at an all-time high with congested commutes and full schedules. No matter if it’s the highway, city street, or rural 4-way stop, there are everyday situations that are frustrating drivers. Even the drive-thru can present a disagreement with driving. So, what is happening? Even if there are more vehicles on the road, there are written laws and unwritten courtesies that we should be observing. However, many times there are two sides to a story…