Here
comes the sun…
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a
total solar eclipse will cross over parts of Mexico, the United States and
Canada. United States cities from Texas to Maine are considered to be in the
“path of totality,” including Erie, Pennsylvania, where Erie Insurance’s Home
Office is located.
While a solar eclipse
doesn’t bring the type of immediate destruction you’d see from other natural
disasters like hurricanes, tornadoes or floods, it does present some unique
risks.
Here’s how to make this
eclipse viewing an enjoyable (and safe) experience.
1. Don’t look directly at
the sun.
The human eye is extremely
sensitive. Staring at even the smallest sliver of the visible sun can cause
permanent eye damage.
Before you buy those
on-trend eclipse viewing glasses, make sure they’re the real deal. Regular
sunglasses simply don’t offer the same level of protection, and some scammers
are trying to pass knock-offs as the real thing.
The American Astronomical
Society has verified several manufacturers
that offer options when looking to purchase proper eye protection for the big
event.
2. Keep your eyes on the
road.
Our 2016 study of Twitter and Instagram data showed that people
stare at the sky #whiledriving… even when there’s not an eclipse going on. So,
we can only imagine how Eclipse Day drivers will act.
If you live close to the
path of totality—that’s eclipse-speak for the best visibility line—expect
traffic jams from visitors. And if you happen to be on the road during the big
moment, be extra
cautious and drive defensively.
3. Renting out your home?
Check your liability coverage.
“Solar eclipse vacations”
are a white-hot trend. If you own a home in the path of totality, you might already know there’s a demand for tourists to crash at
your place via a short-term rental website (like Airbnb).
But before you look to cash
in on the opportunity, ask your insurance agent if your homeowner’s insurance
policy is currently set up to protect you from the unique liability or property
damage risks that come from renting out your home.
On April 8, enjoy this
once-in-a-lifetime view! And remember: rain or shine, your Erie Insurance agent
is here for you. Find an ERIE agent in your neighborhood
today.
