From backyard barbecues to cross-country road trips, the Fourth of July embodies the perfect summer celebration. While the holiday offers plenty of excitement, it also brings heightened risks, particularly for people who travel. For independent insurance agents, this is a key moment to connect with clients, offer guidance and reinforce the value of proactive auto protection.
Historically, the Fourth of July ranks as the deadliest day of the year for traffic fatalities in the U.S. as the blend of increased travel and alcohol consumption creates a perfect storm for accidents. This year, AAA projects that over 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home to celebrate the holiday, a 1.7 million increase over last year. More drivers will be on the road, meaning there are more opportunities for risky behavior and accidents.
Independent agents are uniquely positioned to educate customers and help safeguard their Fourth of July holiday plans. By starting conversations now, you can empower them to steer clear of costly setbacks later.
Coverage conversations that matter
Independent agents should use this high-risk holiday as a natural entry point to encourage policyholders to reassess their auto insurance, covering the following key areas:
- Liability limits: Are they sufficient to protect against a serious accident?
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Especially crucial during heavy travel periods.
- Rental car provisions: Clarify what’s covered if customers rent vehicles.
- Roadside assistance: Help drivers avoid getting stranded during peak demand.
- Permissive use: Explain how their policy handles visiting family or friends borrowing the car.
A short coverage review can mean the difference between peace of mind and post-holiday headaches.
Safety tips for any season
Take advantage of the holiday timing to proactively send clients important safety tips and smart driving reminders that can help prevent collisions such as:
- Avoid peak travel times to stay safe (July 2 and July 6 are expected to be the busiest this year).
- Drive sober and alert—or don’t drive at all if fatigued or impaired.
- Take advantage of auto insurance benefits which can provide free, one-way cab or ride share trips.
- Plan ahead and limit distractions like phone use.
- Stay extra cautious near firework events and Fourth of July parades, where foot traffic and road closures abound.
Your role: Protection, education and trust
As an independent agent, your greatest value lies in your ability to offer personalized guidance. The Fourth of July is more than a holiday—it’s a high-risk, high-opportunity time to show your clients that you’re watching out for their best interests for this holiday, every holiday and every day in between.
Use this moment to reinforce trust, ensure adequate coverage and help clients enjoy a safe and celebratory weekend.
Howard Goldberg
Howard joined Plymouth Rock in 2011 and he leads the independent agency Customer Solutions organization. He and his team provide customer service, rate pursuit, agency service center and book transfer services. In addition, Howard oversees the digital and omni-channel transformation efforts. He has more than three decades of experience delivering customer experience in the insurance and financial services industries. Prior to joining Plymouth Rock, Howard was vice president of customer solutions at eSurance. He also served in key leadership roles at Fidelity and Putnam Investments.
