As Americans settle into the new year, AAA is encouraging them to add one more item to their list of resolutions: reviewing their insurance coverage. With life changes happening throughout the year — job shifts, moves, renovations, new drivers in the household — AAA says now is the ideal time to ensure policies still match current needs.
“The start of a new year is the perfect moment to take a fresh look at your insurance,” says Dan Scroggins, Vice President, Personal Lines Insurance, AAA. “A lot can change in a year, and your policies should change right along with your life.”
Auto Insurance: Adjust for New Driving Habits
AAA recommends that motorists reassess how much they’re driving. With many people working from home or entering retirement, changes in mileage may qualify them for lower rates. Households with students leaving for college or teens gaining driving privileges should also update their policies.
Drivers with older vehicles may want to review whether collision or comprehensive coverage is still cost‑effective. AAA also encourages taking a defensive driving course, which can offer both safety benefits and potential premium savings.
Home & Renters Insurance: Update Inventories and Renovation Details
Homeowners and renters are urged to update their home inventories — either by listing valuables or recording a simple smartphone walkthrough, especially after major purchases or home upgrades.
Renovations such as finished basements or updated bathrooms can change the value of a home and the coverage needed. AAA reminds consumers that insurance is based on the cost to rebuild, not the home’s market value.
Life Insurance: Healthy Habits Can Save Money
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeing a doctor regularly are not only good for long‑term wellness, but they may also help lower life‑insurance rates. Because premiums are based partly on age and overall health, younger and healthier applicants often receive better options.
AAA advises reviewing beneficiaries annually and ensuring important documents are stored securely and shared with a trusted contact.
Mind the Gaps: Consider Additional Coverage
A standard homeowners policy leaves several costly gaps in coverage, including water backup, service line failures, and mold remediation, issues that can lead to major unexpected expenses. Adding the appropriate endorsements ensures homeowners are protected from these common but often overlooked risks.
Flood insurance, which is not included in standard homeowners policies, may be essential for people living near water or in areas prone to heavy rainfall, even if not in a designated high-risk flood zone.
Umbrella insurance, which is extended liability coverage beyond home and auto policies, can also offer added financial protection at an affordable cost.
Travel & Pet Insurance: Protect What You Love
For frequent travelers, travel insurance can provide reimbursement for cancellations and coverage for medical emergencies or evacuations during trips.
Pet owners may also benefit from pet insurance, which helps offset the cost of veterinary care in case of illness or injury.
“No one wants to think about worst‑case scenarios but taking an hour to review your insurance at the start of the year can make a huge difference,” Scroggins says. “It helps ensure you’re protected and that you’re not overpaying for coverage you don’t need.”
About AAA:
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 65.2 million members nationwide and more than 1.2 million members in Virginia. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, membership corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, find local gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit www.AAA.com.
