Virginians encouraged to review insurance coverage ahead of holidays

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Virginia Corporation Commission's Bureau of Insurance is reminding residents to review their insurance plan this holiday season to ensure stolen or damaged gifts don't ruin festivities.

As the holiday season kicks off, thousands of Virginians will purchase gifts for their loved ones and, depending on where you live, roads will soon become icy leaving residents vulnerable to seasonal hazards such as icy sidewalks, stolen or damaged gifts and cooking fires.

The Bureau of Insurance encourages Virginians protect themselves this season by reviewing their insurance and making sure they have the necessary coverage needed in case of injury, theft or illness.

"Whether you are at home, or on the road, don’t let a lack of insurance coverage put the brakes on your happy holiday season," said Virginia Insurance Commissioner Scott White. "Review and update your insurance now. Make sure you know what is and is not covered and understand deductibles and coverage limits."

Here are a list of additional steps and suggestions White has for insurance holders to protect themselves this holiday season:

• Check your insurance coverage for seasonal activities such as skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling.
• Know how much your auto and homeowners insurance will cover if someone steals gifts, decorations or other items from your vehicle, home or yard -- and what type of insurance you need if a guest slips and falls on your porch.
• Keep your auto insurance company’s contact information as well as the a copy of your insurance card while driving.
  • Review liability limits to ensure adequate protection against injury or damage if you are involved in an accident during the hectic holiday rush.   
• Know what your health insurance will cover if you need treatment at an urgent care facility or hospital while out-of-state or traveling abroad.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners'(NAIC) has an app for insurance holders to use to make the process easier.

For more information on insurance related question, contact the Bureau in Richmond at 804-371-9741 or toll-free at 1-877-310-6560. You can also visit the website.