by Katha Treanor

RICHMOND
With all its traveling, shopping, cooking, decorating and entertaining, the holiday season carries many risks that can impact your insurance coverage. Stolen presents, slip-and-falls on icy walkways and blazes caused by roasting chestnuts and holiday candles are just a few.

The State Corporation Commission’s (SCC) Bureau of Insurance reminds Virginians to make sure they include on their holiday to-do list checking with their insurance agent or company to ensure they have the insurance coverage they need in the event of an illness or mishap.

“Whether you are at home or on the road, don’t let a lack of insurance coverage put a damper on your holidays,” said Virginia Insurance Commissioner Scott A. White. “Plan for the unexpected and minimize the financial damage of holiday mishaps by reviewing and updating your insurance coverage now.”

If you are planning a holiday trip, find out what your health insurance will cover if you get sick and end up in an urgent care facility or hospital while you are out of state. Remember to take with you on your trip health insurance information such as identification cards and contact details for all family members.

Use extra caution to keep your home, vehicle, other belongings and personal information safe during the holidays. Know how much your auto and homeowners insurance will cover if someone steals gifts, decorations or other items from your vehicle, home or yard. Understand any deductibles or coverage limits that may apply.

Make it a New Year’s resolution to update your home inventory. This will help you ensure your homeowners or renter’s policy provides enough coverage for your belongings. Separate coverage may be needed for high-cost items such as jewelry, art, or electronics. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ free smartphone app — myHome Scr.APP.book — makes creating a home inventory quick and easy. This app is available through iTunes and Google Play.

Holiday driving can also be a challenge with distracted drivers and severe winter weather. Before you go dashing through the snow, make sure your auto insurance policy meets your specific needs. Check your liability limits to ensure you have adequate protection against injury or damage if you are involved in an accident during the hectic holiday rush. Know what to do if an accident occurs. Keep your insurance company’s contact information and a copy of your insurance card with you when you drive.

If you plan to ski, snowboard, use a snowmobile or plow snow during the winter season, ask your insurance company or agent if you are adequately covered.

For information about a variety of insurance-related topics, contact the Virginia Bureau of Insurance in Richmond at 804-371-9741 or toll-free at 1-877-310-6560 or visit its website at www.scc.virginia.gov/boi. Additional information also may be found on the InsureU portion of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website at www.insureuonline.org.

Katha Treanor is a spokeswoman for the SCC. She can be reached at 804-371-9141 or Katha.Treanor@scc.virginia.gov.