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IN THIS EPISODE

There’s a lot to know about buying a car, especially for a first-time car buyer. How do you get the highest value for the lowest price? Is it better to buy new or used? Should you lease or own? Sedan or hatchback?

Don’t worry — we got you! This episode is full of new car buying tips.

You’ll find out about how to negotiate a deal, where to get financing, the best time to buy a vehicle and what to look for when buying your first car.

Guests Nicole Wakelin, automotive journalist, and Ted Lyons, vice president of financial services at AAA Northeast, share their expertise.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

[3:01] – The first things you need to consider before you start car shopping, including what to look for when buying your first car
[9:55] – The best time to buy a vehicle
[10:34] – Budgeting and the importance of getting pre-approved. We answer: How much should I spend on my first car?

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TRANSCRIPT

[00:00:02]
Amanda Greene: I go to get into the car this morning and there’s a puddle under it. I can’t tell what this is. Oil, brake fluid, coolant, whatever it is, I’m fairly sure it should be in the car and not on my driveway. The air conditioning doesn’t work. Rust is starting to show and now this, I’m out. It’s time for a new car.

Welcome to Merging into Life where we navigate life’s milestones, one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast. I’m your host, Amanda Greene.

READ MORE

Join me as I figure out how to do all the things we have to do, but don’t come with instructions like buying insurance or what you really need to know when making what is probably the biggest purchase of your life, buying a house or maybe moving back in with your parents or booking your dream vacation.

Today on this show we’re going to get into buying first car. Whether it’s leasing a car, buying new or used, we’ve got you covered. The two main factors that come up when buying wheels are, what are you going to buy and how are you going to pay for it? So, I found two people who know cars and the art of buying and selling inside and out.

[00:01:17]
Nicole Wakelin: This is a crazy burly kind of truck and it can go off-road and you can take it up rocks, and they took us out to their new driving school and we jumped it, took it up in the air, whee and came down on the other side.

[00:01:30]
Amanda Greene: That’s Nicole Wakelin. She’s the editor-at-large for CarBuzz and a juror for both the North American Car and Trucking Utility of the Year and World Car of the Year. And yes, she got to jump a truck at a specially built facility under the safest of circumstances. It’s all part of her job, which involves test-driving about a 100 vehicles a year.

[00:01:52]
Nicole Wakelin: They appear in my driveway each week for me to drive and then I fly all over the world to drive even more of them.

[00:01:59]
Amanda Greene: What got you into cars initially? What do you love so much about cars that you are someone who drives over a 100 a year?

[00:02:05]
Nicole Wakelin: Well, you know what? When I was a teenager, I lived in a small town and a car was all about freedom. As soon as you got your driver’s license, you suddenly were no longer tethered to your house all the time. And the minute I got my license, it was like two seconds after the law said I could get it, I had it and it was just, I never turned back. I love driving, I love the freedom of it, I love the experience of being in different vehicles because they all are looking to hit the mark for a different person and I find them all just wonderful and intriguing and I love to drive so, that’s it.

[00:02:37]
Amanda Greene: A fun fact, when I was a child, I made a pretend steering wheel and put a little bendy straw as a blinker because I so desperately wanted to drive. Because of that freedom you’re describing it really, it’s a feeling that never went away. So, the idea of purchasing a new car can be really overwhelming because there are so many factors that go into making the choice for someone who’s just starting to think about buying a car. . What are the main things that you would suggest considering?

[00:03:05]
Nicole Wakelin: Well, I think the first thing you need to do before you even go online and start looking at the mass of information about cars, is to figure out what you want and what works for you, not what your neighbor wants, not what your sister wants, not what your dad wants, what works for you because you’re going to be in that car a lot and it’s generally speaking, the second most expensive thing most people buy aside from their house.

So make sure that you know exactly what you want. Think about how you’re going to use your car, how you’re going to drive. Are you having lots of kids in the car or not? Do you have lots of cargo or not? Do you need to tow a boat or not? And then just narrow down the kind of car that you want before you even start looking at exactly which one.

[00:03:48]
Amanda Greene: What sort of things are important when buying a car? Can you give some examples?

[00:03:51]
Nicole Wakelin: Well, I think you need to consider, how comfortable you want to be. Comfort stuff is always important. You live in the Northeast, the heated seats and heated steering wheel might be more of a priority, you live in Florida, not so much. Things like all-wheel drive, those features, if you’re someplace where there’s lots of snow or even where the roads are just wet a lot, all-wheel drive might be a big deal if you’re in sunny California, again, maybe not. But look at the features that you want and the features that you must have and think carefully about what’s truly necessary.

Do you need a three-row SUV? If you only have one child, well, sure you could bring along all their friends, but that’s a lot more expensive. Do you really need that? Maybe a two-row SUV is enough. So look and think about how you’re going to use your car and then make a list of the things that are your priority. I hate cold mornings, I must have heated seats.

Performance is up there for me, well then I’m probably not going to be looking at an economy car that gets good gas milage. So, make a little list of the things that you just absolutely really, really want in your car versus the things that will be cool to have these things. But if my budget doesn’t allow it, then I can’t find the right mix, then I can survive without them.

[00:04:57]
Amanda Greene: Okay Nicole, you’re driving over a 100 vehicles a year, and so I imagine that can be a crazy task because you have to go into each one fresh to evaluate. Do you have a mental checklist that you go through when you get into the driver’s seat of a new car each time?

[00:05:13]
Nicole Wakelin: My priority every time is to make sure that it’s pleasant to look at and that it’s comfortable because most of the time you’re staring at the dashboard. Most of the time you’re sitting there and sometimes for hours and hours if you’re doing a road trip and the last thing you want are seats that are stiff or bolsters like the side that hold you in too tight so you feel squished and you just want to get out of them.

So I think finding comfort and having an appealing look to it is a priority and that you can actually see the road, which doesn’t sound like something that should be difficult, but if you have a big vehicle, sometimes the way the seat adjustments work, you find you’re trying to, especially a big SUV, where is the end of the hood, you should be able to get an adjustment where you can truly see without having stretched to do it.

So all these things are that first checklist of is this easy? Is this makes sense? Could anybody sit down in this and feel comfortable? You’re looking for things in a car to be something that you can get used to fairly quickly if they aren’t immediately intuitive?

[00:06:17]
Amanda Greene: How about electric vehicles? Who are they meant for? Who are they suited for?

[00:06:21]
Nicole Wakelin: I want to say they’re suited for everyone. Anyone can get an EV, but there are things that make them better or worse depending on your circumstances. You have to be able to charge them. If you’re someplace where you are, say in an apartment or a big city where you can’t install a charger in your garage or outside, at your driveway, then they might not be the best choice because it’s hard to rely solely on public chargers to be able to charge your vehicle. If you drive extremely long distances, again, that can be a little challenging because again, you’re relying on that public infrastructure and depending on where you are, it’s a little so-so.

They can be poorly located, they might not work, you might not get the charge you expect. So if you do lots of road trips, if you travel a lot for work, an EV might not be ideal unless you’re comfortable with getting comfortable with charging. If you’re not traveling super long distance, you’re okay because the average EV, you’re getting over 250 miles of range with one charge. Most of us don’t drive that much in a typical day. So truly most of us are going to be fine with an EV.

[00:07:26]
Amanda Greene: And I didn’t really realize how much car safety features have changed over time. My husband’s vehicle does not have a backup camera in it, and it’s only one year older than my car. And so I didn’t realize that that was something that came standard just a few years ago. But when you’re thinking about buying a used car, do any car safety features come to mind that you would consider a must have?

[00:07:46]
Nicole Wakelin: Absolutely. And depending on how old the car that you’re looking at is, every car now comes with a camera. So you have a backup camera once upon a time they didn’t. And depending on how far back you go, it may have just been the very top trim that they offered it in or very expensive cars that it was offered in.

So, I would look for what we consider the basics now. Look to see if those basics were available on some of those older cars because those were the ones that were the first things to roll out, like the camera, like lane keeping assist, that’s another good one.

Things like automatic emergency braking. That’s one of my favorite car safety features, if you can find a car that has that automatic emergency braking feature, it’s the one when you blink for two seconds and suddenly you’re about to rear end somebody that will save you so many times.

So don’t get too worried about the long list of features, they’re all great. They all provide help and keep you safe and keep you out of accidents. But we drove for a long time without all those and it wasn’t absolute chaos. You’ll be okay if you can’t find the latest and greatest feature on something that’s in a used car. So investigate it, but don’t get too carried away. Don’t be benchmarking against today’s Mercedes Benz because you’re never going to find that on a used car from four years ago.

[00:09:01]
Amanda Greene: It’s a good reminder to think about how fun a car, truck or whatever you’re in the market for can be. So, I’ve got to figure out which features are most important to me and don’t worry, we’re going to hear more from Nicole Wakelin later in the episode.

I do spend a lot of time in the car, so something that really works for me. I love a seat warmer. Okay, this is a nice one. It’s got three rows. Just like I wanted. Nicole said, think about what you want and need because like she said, there are going to be big differences between buying a used car from four years ago and a new Mercedes Benz. A major one of course is price. I need to talk to somebody about the budget.

To walk us through all things finance and how to approach including how to approach what’s usually the most hated thing about purchasing a car, negotiation. I’m talking to Ted Lyons, he’s Vice President of Financial Services with AAA Northeast Bank. Let’s start at the beginning. When is the best time to buy a car?

[00:10:13]
Ted Lyons: I think the easiest and most universal answer is before you have to. If you are put in a position where you have to buy a car tomorrow to go to work, to go to school, to pick up your kids, it’s going to put you at a decidedly poor advantage to negotiate. You haven’t done your research, you haven’t done your due diligence, you may not even know how much you can afford. The earlier you can get started on the process, the better and definitely before you have to buy it.

[00:10:42]
Amanda Greene: And speaking of what you can afford, the B word, nobody likes budgets. How do you even know if you’re in a position to be purchasing a car? How do you determine if you’re ready financially?

[00:10:52]
Ted Lyons: I think there’s a couple of things. One, the easiest and most obvious is take a peek at your bank account. What do you have in savings? Where are you positioned financially on a cash on hand basis? And then next is going the loan route. So you go and you find out how much can you afford. You can go to your local bank, your credit union, your auto club, wherever you want to go and go get pre-approved.

[00:11:15]
Amanda Greene: Okay, so that’s something people do. Before going to the dealership and actually talking about a car, they’re going to the bank or somewhere else to figure out how to get the money.

[00:11:24]
Ted Lyons: They should. Not everybody does, but they should.

[00:11:26]
Amanda Greene: I kind of thought you’d just show up at the dealership and they tell you.

[00:11:29]
Ted Lyons: Most people do, and that’s where your bargaining starts to go downhill. If you don’t have the ability to know how much you’re approved for, what rate you qualify for, what your credit score is, they’re going to throw a number at you and it may sound good and it may be way too high, maybe way too high. If you know how much you’re approved for, if you know what your rate is, if you know what your payment is relative to those two terms. So, how long did you take out the loan for. The dealership, they’re really good at selling cars and they sell more in a month than you’re going to buy in a lifetime.

[00:12:01]
Amanda Greene: Okay, you are talking about a different level of preparation than I ever thought was necessary before purchasing a car. So that is really good information. So, there’s various payment options. I thought you could either choose buy a used car, buy a new car or a lease, but it’s a little bit more than that.

[00:12:18]
Ted Lyons: It is, and those are effectively the three choices you have. So you’re going to buy a new car, you’re going to lease a new car, you’re going to buy a used car. You can break up that used car transaction a little further. So are you going to buy a used car from a dealer? Are you going to buy it from somebody off Craigslist? Are you going to buy it from somebody off of one of the auto buying sites or Facebook Marketplace or there’s a number of different ways you’re driving down the street and it’s on somebody’s front lawn.

There’s a number of different things so, we just a second ago talked about the financing. So it’s good to know how much can you afford, where are you going to get that money from and so forth. You also have to consider the car, so don’t show up to a car lot, don’t show up to somebody’s house or a dealership or what have you without knowing what that car’s worth. New cars are kind of easy for the most part. You’re paying around MSRP nowadays, the days of paying way under are kind of gone with the last three or four years of car buying mayhem, if you want to call it with inventory shortages and trip shortages.

[00:13:16]
Amanda Greene: You’re saying there’s a little less room for negotiation?

[00:13:18]
Ted Lyons: There has been. It’s starting to wane a little bit as the inventories are bouncing back. We’re starting to see there’s a little more room for that, but it’s nowhere near what it used to be.

[00:13:28]
Amanda Greene: Is there a best site to buy used cars or a resource that you suggest to visit to figure that out ahead of time?

[00:13:34]
Ted Lyons: So, I wouldn’t look at any one site. I’d look at a bunch. And the internet is a wonderful thing and it’s also a rabbit hole and my wife and I were talking about this morning where you get on something and then two hours later you come up for air. But there’s a few sites. So JD Power’s a good one for looking up values, Kelley Blue Book, there’s Edmunds, there’s any of the sales sites too, but it’s also good to see what they’re going for. So go look and see what they’re being advertised for because there’s also a difference between buying it off a dealer’s lot and buying it from your neighbor, right?

[00:14:05]
Amanda Greene: Right.

[00:14:05]
Ted Lyons: There’s a differential in the price there. So you’ve got to kind of know the range and then I hate to even layer this in, but if you’re trading in a car, you’re going to have a whole another factor of negotiation in there as well because they’re not going to offer you retail value for your vehicle.

[00:14:24]
Amanda Greene: Can we talk about leasing a car? Because I’ve never done a lease and I don’t really know a lot about them other than you’re locked into a certain amount of mileage. I know there’s a lease buyout and an extended lease, but how does leasing a car work?

[00:14:36]
Ted Lyons: So, leases are great for people that want to always drive a new car and are kind of married to the fact that they’re just going to always have a car payment. You mentioned mileage, mileage is a big piece of it where if you drive a lot, a lease is something you may not want to consider because they give you X amount of miles every year and at the end of the lease, if you turn that lease in, you may be paying 25 cents a mile over what you’re allotted.

So a lot of people in that case will tend to buy their cars out and lease buyouts have been a very big thing over the past few years because, as we talked about earlier with the inventory shortages and the add-on and the inflation on the vehicle values, you set your vehicle buyout price a couple of years ago.

Two, maybe three years ago when the values of those cars were much lower. Now it’s a very good financial decision in most cases to buy out that lease and a lot of people are doing it. So that can be another purchase option where you’re in a car, you like the car, maybe you don’t like what’s out there on the market right now, or you don’t want to pay what a new car is worth, a lease buyout’s a good option. You mentioned extended leases, some people can push out their lease another couple of years if they wanted to do that as well.

[00:15:49]
Amanda Greene: So let’s talk about terms. What should buyers know about terms to avoid being taken advantage of once they’re there and ready to buy a car?

[00:15:57]
Ted Lyons: I think again, with doing your homework and doing your research upfront, when you get into the purchase end of things, there’s other pieces of the puzzle. The dealer’s also going to be offering you products. So from extended service contracts to gap insurance to fabric protection, undercoating, you name it, they have it and they’re going to offer it to you. In a lot of cases, all of those are negotiable. So they may come to you with a very high rate on something and you say, ‘I’m not paying that.’ And a lot of that stuff is available on the outside market as well. You don’t have to buy it from a dealer.

Picture yourself sitting at home watching TV and an extended warranty commercial comes up from a particular company, they’re available elsewhere out in the market. So you can do your homework and know what those cost as well. Knowing what these things are worth and being prepared to be offered them when you’re sitting down, and sometimes they’ll do it in a menu fashion, they’ll present you with…

[00:16:51]
Amanda Greene: A pamphlet.

[00:16:51]
Ted Lyons: Yeah, and they start with the highest and they bring you down to the lowest and the lowest isn’t zero. The lowest is just the fewest number of the products they want to offer you. So you don’t have to take any of it necessarily. Some of it’s good and some of it’s worthwhile taking depending on your financial situation. Gap coverage, for instance. God forbid you have a total loss on the vehicle and you owe more on the loan than the vehicle pays out for through insurance, gap coverage kicks in there. So did you check your insurance company for it? Did you check other carriers? You don’t necessarily have to get it through the dealer.

[00:17:22]
Amanda Greene: Yeah, there’s some homework to do.

[00:17:23]
Ted Lyons: Absolutely,

[00:17:24]
Amanda Greene: Yes.

[00:17:24]
Ted Lyons: Everybody falls in love with the car and they get a little punch drunk when they go to the dealership because you probably drove in with something that maybe isn’t running so great. There’s a reason you showed up to the lot, so you just drove something that’s really nice and now you fell in love with it and you have to have it, and that’s where those rash decisions come.

So the more tips and information you have up front, the better. But are you driving the same type of car you did? Do you know what your insurance is going to cost? Is this car going to double your insurance and make it unaffordable? Have you looked at what repairs are going to cost on this car? Fixing a Toyota Corolla is different than fixing a BMW and I’m not picking one over the other. It’s just a fact of life. Registration’s another one.

[00:17:59]
Amanda Greene: Right.

[00:18:00]
Ted Lyons: So you have to register this new car or transfer the registration from your old car. You’re going to have to pay sales tax on that new car. Are those things going to put that car out of reach for you or cause you some grief down the road? And these are all the things you got to look at that generally people overlook because they see the shiny car and they say, I have to have it.

[00:18:16]
Amanda Greene: Thanks so much for this Ted. Sounds like I have a lot of homework to do, but before I go, let’s bring Nicole Wakelin back for some lightning round questions. Just to be clear, all of these are Nicole’s opinions and recommendations and hers alone, so we’re getting real insider info here. Okay, Nicole, the best fuel efficient car to drive in the city.

[00:18:39]
Nicole Wakelin: Fuel efficient city driving. This is like a lot of pressure. I’m going to go with, it’s sort of a standby, the Prius, which I know isn’t exciting, but they redid it this year and the Prius is small enough to make it easy to drive in the city and great fuel economy with the best gas milage.

[00:18:52]
Amanda Greene: How about best midsize SUV?

[00:18:54]
Nicole Wakelin: Best midsize SUV. And at this moment, I’ve forgotten every midsize SUV on the planet. It’s a luxury car, so it’s luxury, but I really enjoyed driving because it was so tech forward. How about the Lincoln Nautilus?

[00:19:07]
Amanda Greene: Ooh, I love the look of that one. I think my in-laws drive that. How about the best adventure car for road trips or camping, something adventurous?

[00:19:17]
Nicole Wakelin: Okay, for adventure. I don’t know how adventurous you want to get, but I feel like the Jeep Wrangler is the best adventurous car out there. Take the doors off, take the roof off, get muddy and dirty and have some fun with an outdoor vehicle.

[00:19:28]
Amanda Greene: Okay, some broader questions. Winter tires, yes or no?

[00:19:32]
Nicole Wakelin: So, I am big on winter tires. I will go on for an entire podcast about why everybody who lives someplace where it’s cold because it is winter, it’s not snow tires. So the rule is if you’re in someplace where it’s consistently under 40 degrees, when that happens, you should be on winter tires. It makes a huge difference whether there’s snow or even cold. It’s not just about the snow. So yes, yes, yes to winter tires.

[00:19:58]
Amanda Greene: Oh, interesting. Okay. How about a protective undercoating?

[00:20:02]
Nicole Wakelin: I feel like that was something we did many, many years ago because things rusted, but if you look at the warranties that come on today’s vehicles and how they build them, the things they’ve done to protect them, you don’t really need that stuff. You’re wasting your money, I think.

[00:20:13]
Amanda Greene: All right, next one, touch screen or physical buttons.

[00:20:16]
Nicole Wakelin: It’s both. The answer’s both. No matter what anyone tells you, I’m right on this. You need a touch screen for some stuff, but don’t take away people’s volume knob. Don’t put that in the touch screen. Don’t take away the button that will let me turn the heat up and turn it down. Don’t make me dig around in a screen in the latest one that drives me nuts. They’re putting the air vents, so the controls for the vents are in your touch screen, so you can’t reach out and move the vent. You have to touch your screen and then touch the spot on the screen that looks like your vent and slide your finger around. No, that needs an actual physical control.

[00:20:48]
Amanda Green: I agree 100%. This has been wonderful talking to you. Thank you so much for coming on.

[00:20:53]
Nicole Wakelin: Oh, thank you so much for having me on the podcast. It was a pleasure.

[00:20:56]
Amanda Greene: That was Nicole Wakelin automotive journalist, car expert and truck jumper. And before that, we heard from Ted Lyons, Vice President of Financial Services with AAA Northeast Bank. They both had so much good info to share. So many things I hadn’t thought of. The draw of a shiny new car is a strong one, especially if what you’re used to is a little old or things don’t work.

Or, there’s a puddle of some mystery liquid pooling under your car. I guess the things to keep in mind are to pick out what you want beforehand, don’t rush into a purchase, know how much you want to pay and on what terms, and don’t forget to factor in all the extras, like repairs, insurance, registration.

It’s all about showing up already informed. You’ve been listening to Merging Into Life where we navigate life’s milestones, one episode at a time. Brought to you by AAA Northeast with production assistance from JAR Audio. I’m your host, Amanda Greene. If you had anywhere as much fun as I did, follow us wherever you get your podcasts and let us know what you think.

Send your thoughts to podcast@AAANortheast.com. In the meantime, I’m going to figure out how much I really want to spend on this new car.

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RESOURCES

AAA Car Buying Guide

AAA Auto Insurance

AAA Auto Loans

AAA Auto Buying Program

AAA Auto Loan Payment Calculator

JD Power

More from Nicole Wakelin

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Want to Learn More? Drop Us a Note

*The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are not necessarily the views of AAA Northeast, AAA and/or its affiliates.

Graduating from high school or college is a big accomplishment and a milestone worth celebrating. If you want to give a graduate something they’ll never forget, consider an experience gift.

Maybe you’re the one who just graduated, and you want to treat yourself by broadening your horizons. No matter who is turning the tassel this year, these are some of the best experience gift ideas for a new grad.

Live Events

Is there a concert that your grad has been wanting to go to forever? Maybe a hit Broadway show or a favorite sports team? AAA members can access special discounts for tickets to concerts, Broadway shows, music festivals, comedy shows and more. Just try searching your grad’s favorite artist, from Taylor Swift to Usher. You can also get discounted tickets to sports events like baseball, basketball and football.

Classes

More classes? Your grad might appreciate it more than you know! Encourage them to cultivate their hobby or passion project with local art and music classes. Or help them meet people in their city with low-stakes courses that encourage teamwork. Some great options include pottery, golf, martial arts, cooking and dancing. Check out what’s available near your grad and see if any of them are gift-worthy.

If they’re interested in fitness, you can get them a subscription for Active&Fit Direct, which includes over 12,500 gyms, 12,000 on-demand videos and one-on-one wellness coaching.

Or keep them inspired with access to thousands of books on topics ranging from memoirs to motivation with an Audible subscription. AAA members get a two-month free trial with two free bestsellers or new releases.

Travel

Being well-traveled is an education in itself.

New travelers may prefer guided tours, where a local expert is the one leading the way. Guided tours also make thoughtful experience gifts, since they take care of all the stress associated with planning daily itineraries, hotel stays and more. Reach out to a AAA travel advisor to discuss options and start planning.

After all their hard work, you might want to give your grad a chance to kick back and relax. There’s no better way to get some much-needed rest and relaxation than by going on a luxurious cruise. Whether they’re in search of Caribbean fun in the sun or a European river journey, there’s a cruise for every type of traveler.

Want to immerse your grad in the world of fantasy and fun before they have to get back to reality? AAA members can get discounts to theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and more. You can get them the gift of thrills and chills while saving on tickets.   

More Ideas

Check out our list of gifts to get your grad financially ready.

You can also never go wrong with flowers. Save up to 20% on 1-800-Flowers.com orders. For more gift ideas, visit AAA.com/Discounts.

Do you remember what you got when you graduated? Would you have preferred an experience gift? What are you planning to do for the recent grads in your life? Let us know in the comments below.

You don’t need to be a lawyer to make sense of your insurance policy.

What’s more, understanding the language used in these contracts helps you get the best products for your lifestyle.

This A to Z guide for decoding insurance jargon will get you started.

Actual Cash Value

The calculated worth of insured property at the time of loss or damage. Replacement cost minus depreciation = actual cash value.

Beneficiary

The person who receives the payout from a will, life insurance policy, annuity or similar contract.

Captive Agent 

An individual who sells insurance contracts for a specific insurer.

Deductible

The portion of the loss you pay for before your policy kicks in.

Endorsement 

An addition to an insurance policy that adds to or changes the terms. Also called a rider.

Flood

Not typically included in a homeowners policy, this extra coverage protects your property from floods.

Hazard

A circumstance that increases the likelihood of loss.

Independent Agent

An agent who represents multiple insurance companies.

Liability Coverage

The part of your policy that will pay out if you’re found responsible for someone else’s injuries.

Named Perils

Hazards specifically named in a policy.

Occasional Driver

Someone who is not the main driver of the car he or she usually operates.

Personal Injury Protection

Coverage that pays for the insured’s medical expenses regardless of who is at fault for a crash.

Quote

An estimate of what your insurance premium would be with a given insurance provider.

Renters Insurance 

An affordable insurance policy that protects a renter and their belongings.

Standard Risk

Someone who is insurable at standard insurance rates. High- or low-risk policyholders may pay higher or lower rates based on such risk.

Term

The period when an insurance policy is in effect.

Umbrella Policy

Excess liability insurance that could also cover losses not covered by other insurance policies.

Whole Life 

A life insurance policy that remains in effect for a person’s entire lifetime with guaranteed cash value and a payout upon their death. In contrast, a term life insurance policy is cheaper but has no cash value when the term ends. Learn more.

Need more help? Talk to your AAA insurance agent about the specific terms of your policy.

Moving into a new house or apartment can seem like a daunting task. You’ve probably accumulated a lot of stuff over the years, and the idea of packing everything up can be enough to overwhelm anyone.

Make your next move a little easier with these tips.

Timing Is Everything

In real estate, you might not always have control over your timeline. But if you have any choice when it comes to your move, you should choose to move in the spring. The days are longer and the temperature is warmer, but it’s also not as hot as a summer move.

Moving to a new house in the summer can be a sweaty chore, especially if you don’t have air conditioning installed yet. And moving in the winter can be dangerous – with a layer of ice coating the ground and a limited amount of daylight to work with. Try to plan for a moving date with a forecast of sunny skies.

Pack for Success

Half of the moving struggle is packing. Before things get moving, you need to make sure all your items are packed up and ready to go.

Pack by room. The smartest way to pack is to tackle one room at a time. It’s a natural way to organize your belongings, and it will help keep everything together when you unpack later. Once you organize by room, then you can organize by item. Pack all your dishes together, or all your linens together. Don’t spread the same types of items across multiple boxes if you can help it.

Use labels. Remember to label your boxes clearly. When your boxes are all labeled with the room in which they belong and the items that they contain, unpacking will be so much easier.

Handle with care. Make sure that your fragile items are properly protected for the move. Wrap your delicate items with bubble wrap or unprinted paper – newspaper is convenient, but the newsprint can leave stains behind. It’s also a good idea to put towels or other soft materials on the bottom of boxes containing delicate items.

Get the right box. Boxes and containers designed specifically for moving can make the whole process easier. Wardrobe boxes can help you easily transport hanging clothing, and mirror boxes can help protect your mirrors. Boxes with handles are the best for moving – giving the movers something to hold onto.

Get the Right Vehicle for the Job

If you have a car, it probably can’t fit everything you own. It probably can’t even fit your couch. When you move, you will most likely need a bigger vehicle to help you do it. Luckily, AAA members can save on truck rentals from Penske.

Penske offers truck rentals from cargo vans all the way up to 26-foot trucks. So which is right for you?

If you’re moving from a small apartment or a studio, try a high roof cargo van, which has the capacity of about one room, or a 12-foot truck, which has the capacity of two.

If you’re moving from a bigger apartment or a standard-sized house, opt for a 16-foot truck, which has the capacity of two to three rooms, or a 22-foot truck, which has the capacity of three to five.

Are you making an extra big move with even more cargo? The mammoth 26-foot truck has the capacity of five to seven rooms.

Don’t forget – when renting a truck from Penske, AAA members receive exclusive savings of 12% or more.

Do you have a tip that helped with your last move? Let us know in the comments below.

Though some areas are more susceptible than others, heavy rains and flash floods should be a concern for those living in the Northeast. After all, we are on the coast and so many of us live near water. Are your home and belongings protected with flood insurance?

Brush up on your knowledge of flood insurance with the answers to these frequently asked questions.

Do I need flood insurance if I have homeowners or renters insurance?

Short answer: Yes. Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.

Longer answer: In the 1960s, after a series of flooding along the Mississippi River, flooding was viewed as an uninsurable risk, and many private homeowners insurance companies pulled out of offering coverage for flood damage. Thus, the National Flood Insurance Program was born. The program provides federally backed flood insurance to certain communities participating in the program. If your community doesn’t participate in the program, you can’t buy a policy through the NFIP, but you may be able to buy a policy through a private insurance company.

Check the NFIP Community Book to see if your town or city participates in the program.

Do I need flood insurance if I don’t live near water?

If you don’t live in a Special Flood Hazard Area, defined by FEMA has having a 1% or greater chance or flooding in any given year, you’re not federally required to have flood insurance. However, your mortgage lender may still require you to have it. And, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, more than 40% of flood claims come from properties outside high-risk flood zones. So, though you may not technically need to have flood insurance, it’s still recommended as floods can happen anywhere.

What exactly does flood insurance cover?

In general, flood insurance protects your home from damage done by rising waters, inundation (what happens when water covers normally dry land) and mudflows (when floodwater mixes with mud). It covers the cleanup, debris removal and repairs necessary after a flood.

You can insure your house for up to $250,000 with building property coverage and your belongings for up to $100,000 with personal property coverage, which must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program. You may be able to purchase additional coverage through a private flood insurance program.

What doesn’t flood insurance cover?

Knowing what isn’t covered is as important to understanding flood insurance as knowing what is covered.

Flood insurance doesn’t cover damage that affects property and belongings outside the home, including trees, walkways, pools, decks and patios, fences, septic systems and the like. In furnished areas below ground level, insurance coverage doesn’t include paneling, bookcases, window treatments, carpeting and other floor coverings, drywall for walls and ceilings, and personal property such as clothing, electronic equipment, kitchen supplies and furniture.

Coverage for basement and crawlspace damage is pretty limited.

Policyholders should also be aware of the “earth movement” or “long-term differential movement” clause. Loss of property caused by earth movement, even if due to a flood, isn’t covered. That means your policy may exclude damage caused by landslides, sinkholes or movement of land due to water accumulation or gradual erosion.

What should I do before a flood?

If you have flood insurance, take pictures or video of your property to document the condition of your home before any damage is done. Photograph the house, the foundation, the interior and exterior walls and each room inside to avoid a dispute over whether the damage was pre-existing. FEMA recommends that you keep a file of these photos along with a copy of your insurance policies, plus serial numbers and receipts for major appliances and electronics.

If you don’t have flood insurance, first ensure that your community participates in the NFIP, then talk to an insurance agent about your options. Keep in mind that there is a 30-day waiting period to purchase flood insurance, so you can’t wait until just before a storm (home closings where it is required by the lender are an exception.)

Contact an experienced AAA Insurance agent today.

What should I do after a flood?

First, call your insurance agent or insurance company. Make a list of damaged or lost items and include receipts if possible. Take pictures of the damage after the flood, before any cleanup or debris removal.

Learn more about what to do before, during and after a flood.

Do you have flood insurance that has come in handy? Tell us how it has helped you in the comments below.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

Plan your next adventure with a AAA travel advisor.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your puzzle playing experience. Good luck!

What does summer mean to you?

For many, summer calls to mind the sweet taste of fresh blueberries, homemade ice cream or strawberry shortcake. For others, it’s long afternoons spent in nature, hiking along lush paths, slicing through peaceful pond water on a canoe or strolling through the farmers market. And some dream of summer evenings spent around the campfire or swaying to the music at an outdoor concert.

If you’re pining for a classic American summer, look no further than North Central Massachusetts.

For Long, Sunny Days

There are many ways to cool off during the dog days of summer in Massachusetts.

Grab Some Ice Cream

Beat the afternoon heat with a frosty cup or cone of ice cream at one of the region’s many ice cream establishments.

Kimball Farm in Lancaster has been serving homemade ice cream since 1939, while Cherry Hill Ice Cream dishes out the sweet stuff at stands in Townsend and Lunenburg. And don’t forget Rota Spring Farm in Sterling, where you can also pick up some farm fresh produce.

Take a Dip

With so much coastline to enjoy in Massachusetts, you might not realize there are ways to enjoy the water inland too. It’s easy to take the family to cool off at one of the area’s rivers or splash parks.

Keep it simple this year with a weekend getaway to Leominster State Forest or Otter River State Forest. Leominster offers outdoor swimming at Crow Hill Pond, a small, family-friendly beach surrounded by beautiful hiking trails. Beaman Pond at Otter River State Forest is a popular swimming spot for both day hikers and campers. The small beach area is a great picnic spot for families with young kids.

Of course, you can also check out Great Wolf New England’s sensational indoor water park, the massive water spray park at Davis’ Farmland or the free splash pad at Parkhill Park in Fitchburg, all perfect for sweltering summer afternoons.

Chill Out With a Cold Brew

For those looking to chill out with a beverage, North Central Massachusetts has plenty of breweries to quench your thirst. In Fitchburg, you can find summer ales at Thirsty Robot Brewing. There’s also Wachusett Brewing Company in Westminster, Moonhill Brewing at the Gardner Ale House or the the Brew Barn at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston.

For a different kind of cold brew, try an iced coffee at one of the many coffee shops in the area, from Bolton Bean in Bolton to Smokestack Roasters in Lunenburg.

Opt for an Outdoor Adventure

Do you prefer to stay active all summer? Take your pick of several fishing holes, scenic trails, golf courses and more throughout North Central Massachusetts.

To get even closer to the region’s wild side, try canoeing or kayaking on the Nashoba River, go for a walk in Doyle Community Park or head to Doane’s Falls in Royalston to listen to the roar of the water.

For Warm, Starry Nights

The summer fun doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down.

Go Camping

Picture this: After a day of fun in the sun, you’re ready to wind down with supper cooked over the campfire, toasted s’mores and an evening of conversation and music under the stars. The beauty of this image is that it’s within reach this summer. Because camping isn’t just fun, it’s affordable too!

In North Central Massachusetts, state-operated and private campgrounds offer sites for backcountry camping, tent sites and even cabin rentals. So, no matter how much (or how little) you like roughing it, there’s a camping experience for you.

For a private campground with oodles of family-friendly amenities, check out Pine Acre Family Camping Resort in Oakham, The Pines Campground in Ashby or Lamb City in Phillipston.

Jam at an Outdoor Concert

If sleeping outdoors isn’t your cup of tea, this region offers plenty of other evening entertainment options, especially in summer.

Many town commons in North Central Massachusetts have outdoor evening concerts when the weather turns warm. Summer concert series take place at bandstands and town greens across the country, but the history of these events runs deep in New England. Or take in a concert at the spectacular Groton Hill Music Center.

No matter your musical preference, you’re bound to find evening entertainment you’ll enjoy this summer. Always check out the North Central Massachusetts events calendar for up-to-date happenings in the area’s towns and parks.

Ready for summer?

Start planning your next day trip or weekend getaway in North Central Massachusetts.

Imagine checking off the high-end experiences on your Luxury Gold Founder’s Collection small group journey of England and Scotland’s national treasures: London, Stonehenge, Stratford-upon-Avon, Edinburgh and of course, lunch with a British duchess on the grounds of her 11^th-century castle.

Every Luxury Gold small group journey is meticulously planned, keeping convenience, exclusivity and extravagance at the center. From exceptional dining at Michelin-rated restaurants to VIP curated experiences with afterhours access and magnificent stays at world-leading properties, every detail is elevated. Plus, guests are catered to by Luxury Gold’s 24/7 Travel Concierge, who combine local knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts.

The Founder’s Collection, personally curated Luxury Gold’s late founder Stanley Tollman, is inspired by his life in travel and calls upon his extensive connections. With a chance to meet royalty, scholars and regional experts from different countries and behind-the-scenes access to incredible locations, your itinerary will look quite impressive.

The exclusive meet-and-greets are part of select journeys. Of course, your Travel Concierge and local experts from the region you are visiting will accompany you to answer questions and provide more information. Many itineraries also include a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® experience, focused on sustainable travel practices, local culture and resources.

Here are just a few of the fascinating people you could meet on a Luxury Gold small group journey featuring a Founder’s Collection experience.

Be the Guest of an Artist, Scholar in Peru

Luxury Gold’s Treasures of the Incas excursion in Peru includes a VIP visit to artist Victor Delfin’s home in Lima and a trip to the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Pichu prior to the arrival of crowds. Enjoy the beauty of a tea plantation or a visit to one of the country’s biggest orchid farms.

Peru’s Founder’s Collection experience includes a stop at the ancestral home of Peruvian politician and philanthropist, Dr. Francisco Diez-Canseco Távara, in Lima. Over Lunch, Dr. Canseco relates anecdotes of his family’s experiences, surrounded by artifacts from his country’s and family’s personal history.

Visitors also have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of traditional Peruvian Cusqueñan textile weavers of Cusco in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

Gardens Fit for a Duchess

If Great Britain is more your style, consider the British Royale small group journey, a 10-day guided expedition to the national treasures of England and Scotland. You can join the Yeoman Warder for a Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London and enjoy other historic landmarks. Have high tea at Castle Howard, get a private guided walk of the castle and grounds, and visit the Roman baths.

The unquestionable highlight is joining Jane Percy, the Duchess of Northumberland, for a private look at Alnwick Castle Gardens. The Percy family has owned the castle since 1345, and Percy spent years restoring the gardens. Included in the flora and fauna is one of the only poison gardens in the world, filled with deadly specimens such as the strychnine tree, hemlock and the castor oil plant, whose seeds contain ricin. A private guide shows off the castle’s interior and guests enjoy a seasonal lunch.

Princess Relates Family History

Royalty and living history await on other small group journeys as well. Princess Anita von Hohenberg of Austria welcomes Founder’s Collection members to her home, Artstetten Castle in Artstetten-Pobring for private reception with drinks. The castle was built on the ruins of a 13^th century fortress and has evolved over the centuries.

Von Hohenberg is a descendant of the Habsburgs, one of the oldest sovereign families in Europe, and is the great-granddaughter of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, who inherited the castle in 1889. His assassination in Sarajevo in 1914 triggered a series of events that led to the start of World War I. Ferdinand and his wife Sophie later were buried in a crypt under the castle. Artstetten was seized by the Nazis during World War II but returned to the family in 1949.

While guiding guests through the house and grounds, von Hohenberg emphasizes that while Artstetten is a castle, it still is a family home. She tells visitors about her family’s past and involvement with the history of her homeland.

Wining and Dining in Italy

Italy and wine go together like, well, cappuccino and cannolis. Enjoy both on a 13-day small group jounrey of Italy, loaded with must-sees, including a stroll through acres of vineyards in Tuscany and winemaking lessons from Marchese Mazzei. The Mazzei family has been producing premier wines for 25 generations at the Castello di Fonterutoli. The more than 1,600-acre estate includes 290 acres planted with vines. Enjoy lunch paired with some of the region’s best chiantis.

Also not to miss in Tuscany: An after-hours visit to the Doge’s Palace with a Luxury Gold local expert.

Other highlights include a glass-blowing demonstration in Venice, visits to Rome, the Vatican, Florence and Pompeii, and meals at exceptional restaurants. There’s something for everyone!

Contact your AAA Travel Agent and plan your next getaway today.

Featured image: Courtesy of Luxury Gold.

Nothing rejuvenates the body, mind and an adventurous spirit quite like a trip to the great outdoors. From glaciers to mountain ranges and spectacular national parks, the world’s most magnificent natural wonders are waiting to be discovered.

But where to begin? Let these guided travel tours lead the way!

Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park

If glaciers are your thing, the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park tour is for you. This seven-night tour includes visits to Calgary, Banff, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park and more. Ride in an open-air Jammer down Going-to-the-Sun Road, which leads across the Continental Divide and offers breathtaking views of Glacier National Park. At the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, you can brave a walk across a glass bridge to see the Sunwapta Valley below. Or you can take a ride across the huge Athabasca Glacier.

National Parks of America

America is rich with beautiful natural landscapes that we can explore in our own backyard. The National Parks of America tour will take you out west to see five of our most majestic national parks. Travelers will get breathtaking sights of the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion and more. You can see Mt. Rushmore and the Crazy Horse monument, before learning more about the historical context of these sites from a Lakota guide. This 12-night tour is best for travelers looking for a moderate level of activity and a maximum level of natural beauty.

Alaska: America’s Last Frontier

The remote grandeur of our biggest state awaits on the Alaska: America’s Last Frontier tour. On this eight-night trip, travelers can learn the art of gold panning, get up close and personal with dog sled riding, embark on a glacier cruise, ride in a domed railcar and more. The highlight of the trip is the full-day tundra wilderness tour through the majestic Denali National Park. As you travel through Alaska, you’ll meet the locals and get an insight into their way of life and indigenous culture. Not enough Alaska for you? You can opt into a “flightseeing” tour to get a bird’s-eye view of Denali National Park. You’ll even land on a glacier.

Peaks of Europe: The Alps to the Dolomites

North America isn’t the only place with picturesque mountains! Head abroad for the 12-night Peaks of Europe: The Alps to the Dolomites tour, which winds through France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria and Italy. This storybook tour includes visits to Mont Blanc, the Bernese Oberland, the Lauterbrunnen Valley and the frosty Jungfraujoch, also known as the “Top of Europe.” You’ll also journey into the Dolomites to visit ski towns, vineyards and lush landscapes. This tour is best for travelers who are ready to be active on their adventure. It’s also a small group tour, which makes for a more intimate and personalized experience.

The Northern Lights of Finland

Travel under the magical glow of the aurora on the seven-night Northern Lights of Finland tour, which features the best of everything Finland has to offer. You can tour Helsinki, adventure through Lapland, sleep in a glass igloo, go on a reindeer safari and even lead a dog sled team. Learn about the culture of the indigenous Sami people while taking in the natural beauty of snowy white grounds and night skies filled with the northern lights. Plus, don’t forget to hit the sauna before you head home. This small group tour is best for travelers who are open to being active and getting a little chilly.

Exploring New Zealand’s Wonders

The rolling hills and lush landscapes of New Zealand will make you feel like you’ve walked straight into a fantasy novel. The epic, 18-night Exploring New Zealand’s Wonders tour features geothermal springs, grand fjords, ice fields, giant kauri trees and more. Travelers will see Auckland, the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Mount Cook, Dunedin and Queenstown. It’s an immensely thorough tour that completely immerses travelers in the country – you can even learn about Maori culture over an authentic Hangi dinner. At the end of the tour, your small group will feel almost like a fellowship.

Are you looking for a chance to explore the great outdoors? Contact your AAA travel advisor and plan your next getaway today!

What’s the best experience you’ve had when traveling out in nature? Tell us your story in the comments below.

Featured image: Peyto Lake, Banff National Park

Learning how to grow herbs is a great practice in sustainability, as it means less reliance on store-bought products which, in turn, reduces waste. It also means you’ll have an array of fresh-smelling herbs in your home to snip from and enhance your meals whenever you need!

You can start your herb garden any time of year – especially if you have a room or window that gets good sunlight – but it’s best to begin in the spring when more herbs are in season and readily available for purchase. The kind of herbs you select are up to you and your tastes, but basil and green onion are some of the easiest to propagate and a great place to start.

Step One: Buy A Plant From The Store

Growing herbs from seeds is totally doable, but purchasing an already budding plant from the grocery store will save you lots of time.

In some supermarkets, you can find starter basil plants in the produce or flower sections. These may look healthy at the time of purchase, but often there are numerous plants crowded into one pot, which creates a competition for nutrients and eventually leads to an unhappy plant that doesn’t produce much (if any) new growth. If you choose to buy a plant, we recommend taking it out of its pot, separating the plants and propagating from there.

Buying a package of fresh basil will work, too. Look for a container with long stems and leaves that are not yet yellowing. This is a good indicator that it will propagate, or start new growth, well.

Green onions (scallions) are even simpler because they come with their roots still attached; just grab a healthy-looking bunch from the produce section.

Step Two: Snip and Start Rooting

It’s important to know exactly where to cut to ensure your cuttings will take root and grow into their own new plant.

With basil (and rosemary, mint and sage, to name a few), look for part of the stem where two smaller shoots have grown on either side. Snip the stem just above the side shoots. Make sure to use clean garden pruners for this part. Then, drop your cuttings (snipped end down) into a small container with water.

Here’s a helpful visual from gardening expert @joesgarden.official.

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A post shared by JoesGarden (@joesgarden.official)

If your basil isn’t taking root in water, try either using a store-bought rooting powder or, in a pinch, some cinnamon from your pantry. Snip about a centimeter off the end of the stem and dip the end into the rooting powder or cinnamon before placing the cutting into a pot with soil. This will stimulate the root process and hopefully help the cutting produce roots more quickly.

Green onions are just one single shoot, so no need to look for stems or nodes. Chop or snip off the green part of the plant all the way down until the color starts to fade into white, right above the rooted ends. Use an elastic band to bunch the onions together (the same way they are when you purchase them) and place them, roots down, into a small container with water.

For any of your cuttings, you can use a short glass, Mason jar, votive or whatever you’ve got lying around. Something see-through is preferable so you can easily check the status of the root growth.

Step Three: Wait, Then Plant   

After a couple of days, the green onions will show signs of new growth. After a few weeks, they’ll be regrown and large enough to plant into soil. Select a growing pot that’s about 8-inches wide to give the roots lots of room to stretch their “legs.”

For the basil, roots will form in the water within 10 days, at which point you can separate each plant and pot them individually in good quality soil.

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A post shared by JoesGarden (@joesgarden.official)

Set up your potted herbs either outside in a warm, sunny area or inside by a south-facing window for optimal light. Make sure to water regularly and keep up with snipping above the side shoots with basil, rosemary or mint to ensure the plants keep creating new shoots. This is how you maintain a steady harvest of herbs all year long!

Do you have an herb garden? Share your tips for how to grow herbs in the comments below.

If you haven’t heard of Portugal’s Madeira (the place, not the wine), don’t be surprised. Located off Africa’s northwest coast, it consists of four islands, only two of which are inhabited: Madeira and Porto Santo, which in 2024 was named Europe’s Leading Beach Destination by World Travel Awards. But, so far, it has been mostly off travelers’ radars.

Madeira Island offers stunning vistas, outdoor adventures, low tourist traffic, gourmet food and posh hotels. And getting there is easier than ever, so it’s a great time to plan a trip. SATA Azores Airlines is offering nonstop service from Boston’s Logan International Airport this summer and year-round nonstop service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. .

Travelers who have discovered Madeira enjoy a slower pace and fewer crowds than many other vacation destinations, as well as these top five attributes.

Nature

Five members of the AAA Northeast travel team recently went to the island of Madeira, gathering firsthand experience to help guide members interested in visiting. They all returned with rave reviews and unanimously praised the abundance of natural beauty.

“It’s a hidden gem,” said Nicole Ekholm, a travel project specialist who participated in the trip. Ekholm is of Portuguese descent and speaks Portuguese.

“I loved Madeira!” added travel advisor Jodi Abata. “I loved the diversity of things to do and the interesting topography … from the beautiful beaches and coastline to the picturesque hills filled with gardens and vineyards.”

Known for its variety of rare plants and flowers, one place not to miss is Madeira Natural Park, which was created in 1982 to preserve these natural treasures. Classified as a biogenetic reserve, the park is home to an enormous range of plant life.

Travel advisor Amy Orzechowski was amazed at the landscape. “I was not familiar with how beautiful and picturesque it really is.”

Outdoor Adventures

Formed by a volcano and known for its rocky terrain, the archipelago of Madeira is popular with hikers – especially thrill-seekers. The island’s network of 1,926 miles of levadas, which are irrigation trenches built into the mountains, attract daring hikers who follow paths adjacent to the trenches down the mountains. The levadas, some of which are 600 years old, provided water for drinking, farming, power and enabled a sugar cane industry to thrive for centuries.

Hiking in less treacherous forest locations is also popular, as is parasailing, off-roading, paragliding and swimming in natural pools. The island also has two man-made beaches and a waterfront.

Culture

For years, Madeira was known as a wellness retreat for the rich and famous. Winston Churchill was a regular visitor, as was Stephen Hawking, who went seeking rejuvenation.

Visitors can spend time in the islands’ capital city of Funchal on Madeira, cited for being accessible for people of all abilities. Tour the waterfront and continue to downtown, which besides several cathedrals, houses the Museum of Sacred Art. Plan a visit to the Madeira Wine, Embroidery and Handicrafts Institute, which preserves the island’s longtime tradition of embroidery and displays works that are more than 150 years old.

“I felt like I was in the Caribbean and Europe at the same time,” Abata said.

Wine

Don’t forget to schedule a tour of one or more vineyards to learn how delicious Madeira wine is made. Madeira is one of the few regions of the world that produces mountain wine.

Take time to sip a glass of Madeira or Poncha, the island’s favorite rum punch cocktail, while relaxing at an outdoor cafe.

Food

Not surprisingly, many of Madeira’s culinary specialties come from the sea. These include grilled limpets, a type of mollusk, and varieties of broiled fish. Steak skewers with cornmeal nuggets are another regional favorite, as are a variety of hearty soups.

Madeira is still being discovered by U.S. tourists, but that is rapidly changing, said Ekholm. “If you want a good combination of food, culture and activity, it can be a better value vacation than Hawaii or the Caribbean.”

Contact your AAA travel advisor and plan your next getaway today!

Have you been to Madeira? Would you like to go? Tell us in the comments.

Featured image: Praia do Porto Santo5. ©Henrique Seruca

Pleasant Holidays and its premium offering, Journese, are here for all your travel needs, from booking four- and five-star hotels to boutique and all-inclusive options, plus add-ons to make your trip as easy and memorable as possible. It’s world-class, one-stop travel planning at your service.

Hotels and Resorts

Looking for a penthouse suite at the finest island retreat? Or maybe you prefer a garden-view room in the city? The Pleasant Holidays family of brands has you covered. In Europe alone, there’s more than 1,100 different properties to choose from!

Reach out to your AAA travel advisor for choice accommodations and special deals that cover the range from all-inclusive arrangements to a la carte specialty services and little-known extra amenities.

Pleasant Holidays offers exclusive discounts, added values and even guaranteed lowest rates at five hotels on three islands in Hawaii.

Air Travel

For added savings, bundle your complete vacation travel package with your flights. Your travel advisor can help you find convenient first-class, business-class and premium-economy flights on major air carriers to more than 170 destinations in over 80 countries. When you book with Pleasant Holidays and Journese you get award-winning customer service and travel advisor support you can count on.

Curated Luxury Travel With Journese

Journese goes far and wide to curate memorable stays at select four- and five-star resorts and hotels around the globe, setting you up with the highest level of service, from white-glove treatment and plunge pools to floral welcome arrangements and other added values. Your travel advisor will also assist with travel arrangements and exciting activities at your preferred destination, along with support with visa expediting and airport lounge VIP treatment. You can sit back and enjoy the finer things while Journese handles even the smallest details.

Pleasant Activities

Pleasant Activities provides ready access to tours and excursions that accentuate the highlights of your chosen destination and special privileges, like skipping the line for a private tour of the Louvre. Take advantage of guided city tours to see as many landmarks, architecture, natural wonders and cultural hotspots as you want. Get in touch with nature again by swimming with dolphins or turtles in Hawaii. Snorkel to see beautiful schools of tropical fish in the Caribbean. Or, if you’re the truly adventurous sort, take a zipline through the trees in a tropical locale.

Ocean and River Cruises

Pleasant Holidays’ newly expanded and growing portfolio of cruise lines ensures your seaward venture takes off in class and style. With a wide variety of cruise lines featuring different types of ships and itineraries traversing the globe, you can find the best cruise experience for you. Popular destinations include Alaska, Caribbean, Hawaii, Transoceanic voyages and more.

Explore Europe or Asia on a river cruise or have an adventure closer to home. Voyage the mighty Mississippi on a paddlewheel, evoking images of classical Samuel Clemens lore, or sail the Great Lakes on the ultimate pleasure cruise.

Service at Your Chosen Destination

Arrange for rental cars, secure rail tickets and schedule transfers to your hotel or the airport. Pleasant Holidays and Journese inspire the confidence that your travel needs are taken care of from the booking process to your safe passage home.

Guided Tours

Pleasant Holidays and Journese offer guided vacations in Central and South America, so you can leave all the heavy lifting and itinerary planning to the experts. Consider a seven- or nine-day tour of beautiful Costa Rica or Belize. Guatemala, Pleasant Holidays’ newest destination, evokes grandeur and cultural significance, providing a portal into the past with visits to ancient ruins and architecture of the ancient Mayan civilization.

Travel Protection Plans

Add travel protection plans, including cancel-for-any-reason options, and your travel investment is covered even if your plans change. Travel protection must be added at the time of booking and comes in two forms: cash back or exchange for travel credit. Protection covers government-imposed travel restrictions and prepares your travel party for the unexpected, from lost luggage to missed connections. Ask for details on Travel Protection Plans when booking your dream vacation.

Group Travel

Planning a destination wedding? For occasions that call for group travel or boutique group travel, Pleasant Holidays and Journese can help for groups as small as five to ten rooms. Make arrangements for your social or work travel event, get added benefits and save precious time in the planning stage.

Member Benefits and More

Pleasant Holidays’ best price guarantee ensures that if you find a lower price on the same vacation package, they will match it. Ask your AAA travel advisor for details. And don’t forget to ask about AAA member benefits, as your membership is the key to exclusive added amenities, discounts and credit toward select services.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic beach getaway for two, a trip for the extended family or to explore new horizons with good friends, rely on the travel experts at Pleasant Holidays and Journese.

Contact your AAA travel agent and plan your next getaway today! 

Featured image: The Twin Fin, Hawaii

You may have never questioned it until now – is it illegal to drive in the left lane?

Most of the time, yes. Usually, the left lane is for passing, not driving.

So, if you enjoy life in the fast lane, you might want to think twice about spending too much time there.

The Left Lane Is for Passing

The restrictions and penalties for left-lane driving vary among the 50 states, but almost every state limits driving in the left lane to passing, merging or exiting. Fines for violations range from $50 to $500. Many states follow the Uniform Vehicle Code, which requires drivers to keep right if they are going slower than the normal speed of traffic.

Drivers in all states are permitted to use the left lane for passing when there is more than one car traveling in the same direction. Most states, though, don’t allow left lane access for slow moving vehicles that give no indication of passing or turning.

If you’re interested, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has compiled a list of “keep right” laws in each state.

Why Left-Lane Driving Is Illegal

The reasons behind limiting left-lane driving vary, but most have to do with safety and efficiency, as well as reducing aggressive driving. While not specifically taking a position on left-lane driving, AAA recommends slower traffic keep to the right and all motorists should drive at a speed consistent with the specified limit as well as roadway conditions.

“In general, when people travel slowly in the left lane, that can lead to frustration among drivers who might be lined up behind them,” said Alec Slatky, managing director of public and government affairs for AAA Northeast.

In one AAA study, drivers who rated their speed as faster than other drivers were more likely than others to report engaging in aggressive driving behavior.

If drivers populate the left lanes, faster drivers wind up changing lanes more frequently, weaving around them, which can be a safety hazard. Driver frustration can also lead to other risky behaviors, such as tailgating or passing a car on the right. Passing on the right can be extremely dangerous because of the traffic flow, blind spots and cars entering and exiting from the right side.

Stay in Your Lane

Chances are, during your daily travels, you’ll encounter people driving faster than you, even if they are not supposed to. Freeing up the left lane leaves room for emergency vehicles, avoids traffic backups and enables people to get to their destinations faster.

“We’re not looking for police to be writing lots of tickets for people traveling slowly in the left lane – we’re hoping that people will follow best practices,” said Slatky. “It’s also generally better if everyone follows the same standard – people pass on the left, rather than the right. When you behave in a way that others expect on the road, that lowers everybody’s risk.”

What are your thoughts on left-lane driving? Tell us in the comments.

Ah, spring! The time of life and renewal, sunshine and perfect weather. But for some, the spring is not so perfect. For many people, spring is also the time of runny noses and itchy eyes, crumpled tissues and crawling skin. Spring allergies are a bummer. You’re supposed to be out celebrating the change in weather, not huddled under a mountain of tissue boxes.

The main culprit of spring allergies is pollen, which wafts off of trees, plants, grasses – you name it. Spring allergy sufferers are basically trapped inside the reproductive cycle of plants. It’s not a pretty place to be. Although sometimes you can see yellow clumps or clouds of pollen, individual pollen motes are so tiny that they can only been seen under a microscope. Those little guys are causing you all that trouble? Outrageous.

Allergies caused by pollen often manifest with symptoms like a runny nose, watery and itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, postnasal drip and blocked sinuses, among others. Unlike the common cold, allergy symptoms won’t go away in a few days; they’ll stick around as long as they’ve got allergens to react to.

But how to beat spring allergies? The best way is to avoid allergens in the first place.

How to Avoid Allergens

Limit Time Outside

The outside is the domain of springtime, and also the domain of pollen. The pollen count is highest in the morning, so be extra cautious during that time.

Wear Some Gear

Avoid itchy and watery eyes by keeping pollen out of them entirely. If you wear glasses, they should protect your eyes from these allergens. If you don’t, get a pair of stylish sunglasses instead. (AAA members can save at LensCrafters.)

When you’re outside doing yardwork like mowing the lawn, wear a protective face mask. This will limit the amount of pollen that you breathe in.

Close the Windows

Yes, we all want to feel that lovely spring breeze, but this is a sacrifice you’re going to have to make if you want to beat spring allergies. If you want a breeze, turn on the AC, not a fan. Fans draw in air and allergens from outside.

Keep the House Clean

Your shoes and pet’s paws track dust, dirt and pollen inside. Make sure your floors are vacuumed – preferably use one with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter – and furniture is dusted so that no trace amounts linger. Many allergy sufferers take their shoes off when they enter the house to limit the amount of allergens they track in.

How to Beat Spring Allergies and Their Symptoms

It’s very difficult to avoid pollen forever, unless you’re living in a bubble or on top of a glacier. Here’s what you can do to save yourself from the sniffles.

Over-the-Counter Remedies

During springtime, drugstores are replete with antihistamines that can help alleviate or prevent the symptoms of allergies. You can get them as pills or, if you really need some relief, as nasal spray. Hit those allergens where it hurts: right in your nostrils.

Drink Apple Cider Vinegar

There are plenty of natural ways to alleviate some of your spring allergy symptoms. You can drink diluted organic apple cider vinegar, which is rich in potassium, to reduce a runny nose.

Clear Your Sinuses

You could also flush your sinuses with a neti pot – which is as soothing as it is completely disgusting. If you’ve never heard of a neti pot, it’s basically a teapot that you pour into one of your nostrils (while something unspeakable happens to the other nostril).

Another way to clear your sinuses is with steam, like the kind of steam you inhale during a hot shower. That same shower will also help rid you of any pollen that might be sticking to your skin or hair. A soothing vapor shower tablet can also help to enhance the benefits of the steam.

Eat and Drink the Stuffiness Away 

Make sure you stay hydrated! Flush your system with water and your, ahem, mucus will be thinner and easier to handle. Eating spicy foods will also help drain your mucus. So just pile on that hot sauce and tell all your friends it’s for health reasons.

Go to the Doctor

If none of these measures work for you, or if you have especially wicked allergies, go to the doctor. That’s what they’re there for! They can set you up with a prescription-strength antihistamine or offer other ways to beat spring allergies.

Do you suffer with spring allergies? Tell us how you deal with them in the comments below. 

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version. 

No one invites a hurricane; sometimes it just shows up.

From fundraisers to weddings, summer is prime time for event plans. Unfortunately, it is also peak hurricane season in the Northeast.

While all you can do is hope for sunny days as you look ahead and start planning for the future, there are several steps you can take to protect your property and special events on the chance that a storm comes knocking at your door.

Protect Your Property With Homeowners Insurance

Review Your Homeowners Policy

Talk to your insurance agent about important elements like your hurricane deductible, which is how much you’ll pay before your insurance company pays your claim. A hurricane deductible is generally a percentage of the insured value of your home, with higher deductibles in areas prone to hurricanes.

Understand What’s Not Covered

According to the National Flood Insurance Program, 90% of natural disasters in the U.S. involve flooding. However, flooding is typically not covered by a standard homeowners policy. If you are concerned about floods, you may want to consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy; depending on where you live, it may be required.

Create a Home Inventory

Create a video or list of your belongings and put it with any receipts to prove their value; save it with other important financial documents and emergency supplies that you’ll grab if you must evacuate. This will speed up the claims process.

Ready Your Home

When a storm is on the way, tie down outdoor furniture and remove weak branches. Consider long-term solutions like installing storm shutters and hurricane-proof doors.

Learn more about AAA home insurance. 

Protect Your Events With Event Insurance

Say “I Do” to Wedding Insurance

In the worst-case scenario that severe weather forces you to cancel or postpone, you will be covered. It will also save you from financial losses if your DJ doesn’t show up or someone gets hurt. “You plan for everything to go right, but the last thing you need is out-of-pocket expenses if something goes wrong,” said Steven Holland, commercial insurance manager for AAA Northeast.

While you are thinking about coverage for your big day, don’t forget to insure your wedding and engagement rings. Learn how AAA can help you protect your jewelry.

Be the Host With the Most (Coverage)

As host of any social or sporting event, convention or fundraiser, you are responsible for expenses and liabilities. Don’t risk it.

Learn more about special event insurance through AAA. 

Download our free hurricane preparedness guide. 

If you’ve been longing to sit on a beach in Mexico with the sun shining, mariachi band playing and taco in hand, we can help you get one step closer: by making tacos! (Our AAA travel advisors can help with the Mexico part.)

Here in the Northeast, many of us are used to the Tex-Mex version of the taco. Often packaged as a kit in the grocery store, it’s usually ground beef in a hard shell, topped with chopped lettuce, diced tomato and a dollop of sour cream. While it’s not a bad choice, it does stray from more authentic street tacos you might find in Mexico or California.

So, exactly how do you make the “best” taco? However you like it! Give these tips a try on your next taco night.

Tortillas

Soft corn or flour tortillas are the way to go. But steer clear of heating them up in a microwave. Simply lay your tortilla over your grill or the flame on your gas stove. Have an induction range? No problem. Heating the tortilla in a pan over medium heat for a couple minutes works just as well; just watch your fingers and flip with a pair of tongs.

Fillings

Street tacos have become increasingly popular over the past few years. The small shell is just big enough to fit in your hand and – the best part – it allows you to have multiple servings and types of tacos in one meal.

Even though you’re making tacos at home, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a full menu of options. Just like your favorite restaurant, you can mix it up with chorizo, short ribs, steak, grilled chicken, brisket or veggies. Try one or try them all! Go for mahi mahi, shrimp or fried scallops to keep it light.

When you want something a little more traditional, marinate skirt steak with the juice of one orange and one lime, cilantro, garlic, onions and a dash of soy sauce to make homemade carne asada. Sauté pork that you’ve marinated in lemon and pineapple juice and you’ve got tacos al pastor.

Toppings

Here’s where it really gets fun. When making tacos you have all the freedom in the world (or in your fridge) to add whatever toppings you like. You can stick with white onion, lettuce, tomato and sour cream, or you can get a little more adventurous. Jicama slaw, red cabbage, queso, chopped cilantro, grilled pineapple and fresh mango are are all possibilities to mix and match.

To add some tang and crunch to your taco, add pickled veggies, such as carrots, jalapenos or radishes. Red onions are especially quick and easy to pickle at home. If you want to be a bit more adventurous, try pickled nopales, aka cactus.

Sauces and Salsas

Homemade sauces and salsas are also great ways to personalize your tacos. They are easier to make than you think, and healthier.

Chop up a bundle of cilantro with white onion and fresh tomatoes for a quick pico de gallo. Want something with more of a kick? Try mango salsa. Just add fresh jalapenos to diced mango and bell peppers and top with a squeeze of lime and cilantro.

The Defined Dish’s Tomatillo-Avocado Salsa is the perfect combination of light and bright with a kick of spice. But don’t add too much. One big faux pas of making tacos is overstuffing or over saucing. No one wants salsa running down their arm.

Taco Presentation

It’s been said that you eat with your eyes first. Now that you have some tips on how to make the best tacos, you can start planning how you’d like to to present them.

Start off with a festive table runner and a set of small bowls to hold all your different toppings. When it comes to plating, make use of a taco stand for less mess. Colorful glasses will also make your tablescape pop.

Finally, every taco-loving kitchen needs a mortar and pestle for making homemade guacamole. You don’t even need to transfer it to another bowl!

Picturing yourself on that beach in Mexico yet? Tell us your taco tips in the comments.

A scenic marvel of mountains, islands, forests and other natural wonders, there are many reasons why Acadia is one of the ten most-visited national parks in the county. And as the only national park in the Northeast, it’s a must-see destination for local nature lovers and explorers. Use this guide to Acadia National Park to help you plan your visit.

Is the park open year-round?

Yes, Acadia National Park is open all year. From mid-April to mid-October, the park’s visitor centers and other facilities are open; during the off-season (late October to early April) only the Park Headquarters is open for services.

Where is the park located?

Acadia National Park is located on Mountain Desert Island, Isle au Haut, and the Schoodic Peninsula on the east coast of Maine.

How big is the park?

The park covers approximately 49,000 acres.

How do I get around in the park?

Most visitors drive their own cars and campers into the park. In addition, the Island Explorer bus transports riders to and from various places on Mount Desert Island, including the airport, park destinations and the local communities. During peak season it’s smart to utilize the Island Explorer service, as parking can be hard to come by.

Also, keep in mind that vehicles must display a park entrance pass while in the park.

What activities are available?

Some of the popular activities in an Acadia National Park vacation package include:

• Rock climbing: Acadia offers sea cliff climbing, which is not commonly found in other national parks. Privately run companies in the town of Bar Harbor, just outside the park, offer training and tours.

• Hiking: The park contains over 130 miles of trails to explore. Whether visitors are seeking a short walk or a day hike, Acadia National Park offers a wide variety of experiences. Because backcountry camping is not permitted in the park, multiday hikes must be planned to include campgrounds.

• Birdwatching: Several species of bird of prey and shore birds make their home in Acadia National Park. Many of the park’s trails offer great opportunities to see these creatures in action, and the park’s website has a list of the species known to live there.

• Winter sports: When winter arrives, visitors can cross-country ski and snowshoe on the forty-five miles of carriage roads throughout the park. Some roads are tracked by volunteers. Snowmobiles and fat-tire bicycles are permitted on unplowed roads only. Some winter camping is available as well.

Are pets allowed?

Pets are permitted in some campgrounds, on 100 miles of hiking trails, and forty-five miles of carriage roads. They are not allowed on beaches, in public buildings or on ranger-led activities.

Is the park accessible?

Several trails and carriage roads in Acadia National Park are accessible, as are some of the park’s main sites, such as Thunder Hole and Cadillac Mountain.

What accommodations are available?

While there are no lodging facilities within Acadia National Park itself, the neighboring communities have numerous accommodations ranging from high-end hotels to less expensive motels. The park does have several campgrounds with spaces for tents and RVs. The surrounding area also has multiple private campgrounds with varying facilities.

Are there restaurants in the park?

Acadia National Park has one dining facility, Jordan Pond House, which serves lunch and dinner from mid-May until late October. Numerous restaurants and grocery stores can be found in the towns outside the park.

What are the most popular areas of the park?

• Cadillac Mountain: Rising to 1,530 feet, Cadillac Mountain is the highest point in the park as well as the tallest mountain on the east coast of the United States. Visitors can drive up a three-and-a-half-mile road to the summit or hike up one of the trails. Vehicle reservations are required for Cadillac summit during select months (in addition to a park entrance pass).

• Park Loop Road: This twenty-seven-mile road leads visitors throughout the park, offering views of the ocean shore, forests, and mountains. Most of the road is open from mid-April through November, though a short portion of the loop is open year-round.

• Thunder Hole: This small inlet carved into rock demonstrates the ocean’s power. When an incoming wave hits the inlet, it displaces the air and water already there, creating a loud clap, much like thunder. Water shoots out of the top, sometimes as high as 40 feet, creating quite the display.

• Isle au Haut: This small island off the coast of Stonington, south of Mount Desert Island, offers camping, hiking, and fishing in a tranquil environment, reminiscent of older times. Acadia National Park takes up half of the island, whereas the other half is privately owned land.

• Sand Beach: Though this yellow-sand beach on the east side of Mount Desert island may look inviting, be prepared – the ocean water in Maine rarely gets above 55 degrees Fahrenheit, so swimming can be a bracing experience.

Plan your national park vacation with the help of a AAA travel advisor. 

Which national park would you like to visit most? Is Acadia National Park on your list? Tell us in the comments.

Summer means baseball and hot dogs. But you don’t have to hit your local stadium to get a taste of frankfurter excellence.

These hot dog joints – the greatest of all time (or GOATs) in the sausage world, if you will – have been drawing crowds for decades, and in some cases, more than a century.

Whether you call them wieners, rippers, red hots, franks or dogs, these joints don’t mess with success. Original “secret” recipes are still being served at all of them. How’s that for a home run?

Prefer an audio summary of this post? Click below to listen to this article.

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Blackies

Cheshire, Conn., opened in 1928

Fans beeline to this Cheshire hot dog joint for its unique hot pepper relish – a secret family recipe that has made it to the International Space Station! The peppers are picked locally and then bottled fresh and served as a topper for one of Blackie’s naturally cased pork and beef hot dogs, made exclusively for them by a local butcher. Its iconic red building has been maintained by the current generation, as are a few quirks: Blackie’s does not serve french fries – just potato chips – and is closed on Fridays.

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Casey’s Diner

Natick, Mass., opened in 1890

Opened in 1890 and now run by the fourth generation of the same family, this classic 10-stool diner is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The menu is full of diner staples, but diehards come for the natural-cased franks, which are steamed and then served in a bun from Casey’s original 132-year-old copper bun steamer. Have yours “all-around,” which is served with mustard, relish and onions. Add a root beer float and you can’t get any more old-school than that.

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Hiram’s Roadstand

Fort Lee, N.J., opened in 1932

The Garden State is known for its rippers – pork and beef hot dogs, deep-fried until they rip open. The late chef and author Anthony Bourdain got his rippers at this bustling spot, popular with locals and adventurous foodies alike, many of whom learned about Hiram’s from an episode of Bourdain’s “Parts Unknown.” The dogs are large and plump, served on a toasted roll and delivered in a cardboard box. Order one well done, topped with cheese or smothered in chili with a side of excellent onion rings and a cold birch beer on tap. Cash only.

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Olneyville New York System

Providence and Cranston, R.I., opened in 1946

Rhode Islanders are fierce about their wieners (don’t call them hot dogs or ask for ketchup!). One of the best-known in the state is served at this family-owned spot, named a James Beard American Classic in 2014. Purists order theirs “all the way,” a beef, pork and veal wiener served off the grill in a steamed bun with mustard, onions, celery salt and Olneyville’s signature meat sauce. (You can buy the spice packet and make your own at home.) Wash ‘em down with another Rhode Island mainstay: coffee milk, a blend of coffee syrup and milk.

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Walter’s Hot Dog Stand

Mamaroneck, N.Y., opened in 1919

Fans line up in all seasons under the distinctive green pagoda at this nationally recognized 104-year-old hot spot, now run by the fourth generation of the Warrington family. They’re waiting for Walter’s beef, veal and pork dogs, split down the middle and grilled in a secret sauce, then served on a toasted bun. Get it plain or topped with the signature mustard – a blend of mustard seeds, spices and relish. But don’t get just one! Walter’s also sells ready-to-cook hot dogs and mustard on Goldbelly.

More of the Best Hot Dogs To Try

• Heid’s of Liverpool – Heid’s has been serving up Hofmann hot dogs in Central New York since 1917 with an array of toppings including relish, chili, and even mushrooms. Bring home a jar of their proprietary Heid’s mustard.
• Hot Dog Johnny’s – In business since 1948, this iconic roadside stop in Belvidere, N.J., serves up dogs fried in peanut oil that fans pair with a frosty mug of birch beer. Look for the giant hot dog on the roof.
• Baba’s The Original New York System – It’s a toss-up on who has the better Rhode Island wiener, Olneyville or Baba’s, so let’s just say it’s eater’s choice. Opened in 1927, Baba’s is one of the state’s oldest wiener joints.

Who do you think makes the greatest hot dog of all time? Share your favorite hot dog joints in the comments.

Featured image: Hiram’s Roadstand

You’ve been in a car crash. It wasn’t your fault. Your car is damaged, and you may need medical care. But, you’ve managed to come away in one piece. You feel grateful, until you find out the other driver has no insurance.

This is where uninsured motorist coverage comes in handy.

You’re probably asking, “What is uninsured motorist coverage?” Offered in addition to liability, collision or comprehensive coverage, uninsured motorist coverage offers you protection from an at-fault driver who has no automobile insurance coverage whatsoever.

Who drives without insurance?

In 2023, one in seven drivers were traveling on the road without any type of vehicle insurance, according to the Insurance Research Council (yikes.) If you’re hit by a driver with no insurance — or worse, you’re the victim of a hit-and-run crash — you get stuck with the bill for vehicle damage, medical expenses, lost time at work and a host of unexpected, accident-related expenses.

This can also happen when an at-fault driver is underinsured. Underinsured motorist coverage offers protection when an at-fault driver doesn’t have enough insurance. It is sometimes bundled with uninsured motorist coverage. This varies by state.

“An uninsured motorist is a driver that does not currently carry liability insurance coverage,” said Jodi DeSantis, managing director of insurance sales at AAA Northeast. “An underinsured motorist is a driver that does not carry enough liability insurance to cover the expenses after an accident.”

Some states require that all drivers purchase uninsured motorist insurance. These states include Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, Vermont, New York and Maryland. In other states, such as Delaware, it is automatically included in drivers’ insurance policies, and dropping it requires that drivers reject the coverage in writing.

Vehicle insurance requirements vary broadly from state to state. But, here’s some food for thought: The Insurance Research Council reports that rates of uninsured motorists range from 4.5% in Maine to as high as 26.7% in Florida.

Fortunately, uninsured/underinsured coverage typically costs less than 10% of your overall premium. Ask your insurance representative for a quote.

Two types of uninsured motorist coverage

There are two types of uninsured and underinsured insurance: bodily injury and property damage.

“Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage protects you, your household members and passengers if you are injured by a driver without liability coverage,” DeSantis said. This type of insurance compensates you for out-of-pocket costs from medical bills, funerals and loss of income.

Uninsured motorist property damage coverage pays for damage to your vehicle if it is damaged by a driver without liability coverage. Underinsured motorist coverage also protects against bodily injury and property damage. “An underinsured driver may have liability coverage, but their limit may not be enough to cover expenses after an accident,” DeSantis said.

Should I purchase uninsured motorist property damage coverage?

In some states, uninsured property damage insurance can overlap with collision coverage, which pays for damage to your car from an impact with an object or another vehicle. “If another motorist damages your vehicle, then collision coverage will pay for the damage to your vehicle, minus your deductible, whether the other party is insured or not; however, you may benefit from a lower deductible under the uninsured property damage coverage if this has been purchased,” said DeSantis.

Typically, uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage does not come with a deductible. However, a deductible may accompany your uninsured motorist property damage coverage. This varies by state.

Uninsured bodily injury coverage

Personal injury protection, or PIP, covers medical expenses for you and your passengers, including medications, surgery and rehabilitation. It also pays for lost wages and funeral costs. Drivers are required to have PIP coverage in no-fault states such as Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York, where insurers cover certain accident costs, within limits, regardless of who is at fault. For this reason, PIP is often referred to as no-fault insurance.

Medical payments coverage, or MedPay, covers medical bills for you and your passengers. Like PIP, it covers medical expenses such as ambulance rides, surgery and medications, although it is typically less comprehensive than PIP. Regardless of who is at fault, MedPay works quickly to pay medical costs, and may even cover the cost of your health-insurance or PIP deductible. MedPay is optional in every state except Maine and New Hampshire, where it is required when drivers buy car insurance.

MedPay can be used to supplement your health insurance, which can sometimes leave you with costly gaps in coverage following an accident. It can also serve as added protection in the case you do not have PIP insurance.

Does PIP or MedPay eliminate the need for uninsured bodily injury coverage? Possibly. It depends on the level of coverage you have and what state you live in. Be sure to go over any questions you have with your insurer.

From auto to home and everything in between, the expert insurance agents at AAA can help. Learn your auto insurance options and get a quote.

This article has been updated and republished from a previous version.