Summer is almost here, and for most of us, that means more time on the road. Whether it's a Memorial Day weekend getaway, daily trips to the pool, or a cross-state family road trip, the months between May and September consistently see the highest traffic volumes — and the highest accident rates — of the year.

Before you load up the car and hit the highway, it's worth taking a closer look at your auto insurance policy. A few minutes of review now can save you from unexpected costs later.

Why Summer Matters for Auto Insurance

The increase in summer driving isn't just anecdotal. According to national traffic data, fatal crashes spike during the summer months, often referred to by safety organizations as the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers. More vehicles on the road, more inexperienced drivers behind the wheel, and longer trips all contribute to elevated risk.

For families in Central Illinois, summer also brings construction zones, rural highway travel, and the occasional severe weather event... all of which increase the chances of an accident or vehicle damage.

Key Coverages to Review Before You Hit the Road

Not all auto insurance policies are created equal, and the right coverage depends on your vehicle, your driving habits, and your financial situation. Here are the core coverages every driver should understand heading into summer.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays for damage to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. If you're driving a newer or financed vehicle, this coverage is especially important. Without it, you could be responsible for thousands of dollars in repair or replacement costs after even a minor fender-bender.

Comprehensive Auto Coverage

Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision events — think hail damage, theft, vandalism, or hitting a deer on a rural Illinois highway. These are the types of incidents that tend to increase during summer, making comprehensive coverage a valuable part of your policy.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Protection

Not every driver on the road carries adequate insurance. If you're involved in an accident with someone who has little or no coverage, uninsured and underinsured motorist protection helps cover your medical expenses and, in some cases, vehicle damage. With more drivers on the road during summer, the likelihood of encountering an underinsured motorist goes up.

Gap Insurance

If you're still paying off your vehicle, gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe on your loan and the actual cash value of your car if it's totaled. Vehicles depreciate quickly, and without gap insurance, you could find yourself owing money on a car you can no longer drive.

Personal Injury Protection

Personal injury protection (PIP) covers medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of fault. If your summer plans include road trips with family or friends, this coverage provides an important layer of financial protection.

Don't Forget About Teen Drivers

Summer break means teen drivers are on the road more often — and often without the structure of a school-day schedule. If you have a teen driver in your household, now is a good time to review your policy limits, discuss safe driving expectations, and ask your agent about any available discounts for good student records or driver safety courses.

The Value of an Umbrella Policy

If a serious accident results in medical bills or legal claims that exceed your auto policy limits, an umbrella policy provides an additional layer of liability protection. For families with multiple drivers, newer vehicles, or significant assets to protect, umbrella coverage is worth a conversation with your agent.

A Simple Summer Checklist for Your Auto Policy

Taking a few proactive steps now can make a real difference. Consider the following before summer gets into full swing:

• Confirm your collision and comprehensive coverage limits are appropriate for your vehicle's current value.

• Verify you have adequate uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.

• Review your deductibles — a lower deductible means less out-of-pocket cost after a claim, but it also affects your premium.

• Ask about bundling your auto policy with homeowners or renters insurance for potential savings.

• Update your policy if you've added a new driver, purchased a new vehicle, or changed your commute.

Talk to a Loman-Ray Agent

Your auto insurance should match your life — not the other way around. At Loman-Ray Insurance Group, our agents take the time to review your current coverage, identify any gaps, and help you build a policy that keeps you and your family protected on the road this summer and beyond.

Contact your local Loman-Ray office to schedule an auto insurance review before the summer driving season begins.