Rating:

0.0 (0 votes)

TUCSON - Many families are preparing their new college undergrad teens for life away from home. Before sending your new co-ed to college, AAA has created a checklist that encourages families to address three areas that teens need to manage away from home.

Today on News 4 Tucson at 4 p.m., Michelle Donati from AAA Arizona stopped by to discuss how to best protect your future grad from dangers - both on the road and off.

Here are some points from her discussion with Allison:

1. Protecting Home and Property

a. Today's college student can have more than $10,000 worth of property in their dorm or apartment.

b. A renter's policy can help safeguard belongings. This policy protects property and provides liability coverage.

c. Policies are inexpensive (low $100 range/annual). Some housing may require tenants to have proof of a renter's policy before allowing the tenant to move in.

d. Students may be covered under their parents' homeowner's policy. However, a renter's policy can help avoid the need to place a claim on homeowner's policies, which has higher deductibles.

2. Maintaining a Vehicle

a. Ensure your teen understands how to check tire pressure, identify and air tires to their proper levels, how to examine tread depth and other abnormalities.

b. Review the owner's manual and show teen the recommended maintenance schedule.

c. Explain preventative maintenance and review the owner's manual to ensure they understand and know to track the maintenance schedule on their car.

d. Find an auto repair shop near your teen's college that you can trust by seeking a AAA Owned or Approved Auto Repair facility. Visit the shop and introduce your teen to the owner/management.

3. Preparing for Roadside Emergencies

a. It is important for teens to be prepared in the event of a breakdown or other roadside emergency, especially if they are traveling far from home for college.

b. Instead of calling mom or dad, co-eds can call on AAA for help. Make sure your student has a AAA membership or is an associate on mom/dad's membership.

c. Unlike other services, AAA's roadside assistance follows the member, not the vehicle, members do not have to pay for services up and receive reimbursement later.

d. AAA also offers automotive and insurance services, and discounts. AAA's Discount program helps members save an average of more than $100 per year, which can help students on a tight college budget.

Michelle also offered an exclusive deal for News 4 Tucson viewers: Join AAA Arizona and add one household member for free! That's two AAA Classic memberships for only $55, a savings of $45!

Use promo code KVOAZ and visit: www.aaa.com/joinspecial, or call 1-866-503-9716. This offer is valid until August 31, for Arizona residents only.