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MICHIGAN -- As families prepare to send students off to college, AAA-The Auto Club Group (AAA) is encouraging parents to review insurance coverage before move-in day, according to an AAA press release on Wednesday. From stolen laptops and damaged property to vehicle crashes far from home, the transition to college can create coverage gaps that many families don't discover until something goes wrong.
Before students leave for campus, AAA recommends families should ask these questions:
- Is my student’s car covered at school?
- Do we need renters insurance?
- Does homeowners insurance cover my child’s belongings in a dorm room?
- What happens if my child borrows a friend’s car and is involved in a crash?
- Who can help if they have a flat tire or breakdown hundreds of miles from home?
“Many parents assume their existing policies automatically cover every situation a student may encounter at college, but that’s not always the case,” Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA, said in the release. “Before move-in day, families should take a few minutes to understand what’s protected, where limits may apply, and whether adjustments are needed. It’s a simple step that can help prevent costly surprises later.”
AAA recommends a policy review before the semester begins to identify potential coverage gaps and identify potential savings opportunities. Parents should pay particular attention to auto insurance, renters insurance, dorm-room belongings, and roadside assistance options.
WHAT PARENTS SHOULD REVIEW BEFORE MOVE-IN DAY
Does my student's auto insurance apply at college: If a student is taking a vehicle to school, parents should notify their insurance agent and confirm they have the appropriate coverage for its new location, the release stated. Coverage requirements vary by state, and college students often find themselves driving friends around campus or borrowing someone's car. Families should understand how those situations may affect their insurance protection.
What if my student borrows a friend's car: College students may drive a roommate’s or friend’s car, making it important for families to understand what coverage may apply if a crash occurs while a student is driving someone else’s vehicle, according to the release. Parents should also ask about potential “student away at school” discounts for students attending college more than 100 miles from home without a vehicle.
What if my student's car breaks down: Whether students bring a vehicle to campus or not, families should consider where they can turn for help if a car breaks down away from home, AAA recommends in the release.
Should college students have renters insurance: Many parents assume their homeowner’s policy fully covers belongings in a dorm room. While some coverage may extend to students living on campus, off-premises limits can be lower than expected, the release stated. A renters insurance policy may provide broader protection for electronics, furniture, clothing, and other personal belongings. Parents should consider how much it would cost to replace everything in a dorm room or apartment if it were stolen or damaged.
How can I protect their computers and laptops: Laptops, tablets, gaming systems, and other valuable items are common targets for theft, the release stated. AAA recommends creating a digital inventory of belongings, including photos and receipts when possible. Students should also avoid displaying valuables on social media and make sure dorm rooms and apartments remain locked and secure.
AAA’S BACK-TO-COLLEGE INSURANCE CHECKLIST
- Review auto insurance coverage and applicable student discounts.
- Ask about “student away at school” discounts if a vehicle is not being taken to campus.
- Review roadside assistance options, including AAA membership benefits that can help students access assistance and save money while away from home.
- Verify whether a homeowner’s policy provides adequate coverage for dorm-room belongings.
- Consider renters insurance for students living on or off campus.
- Create a digital inventory of valuable possessions.
- Leave irreplaceable valuables and family heirlooms at home.
- Encourage students to practice safe habits, including locking doors and safeguarding personal information.
“It’s not uncommon for families to assume they’re fully protected, only to discover coverage limitations after an unexpected event,” Woodland said in the release. “If you’re sending a child off to college, now is a good time to ask questions and review your coverage"