The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has revealed that transportation accidents are the leading cause of death during the winter storms. It is essential to have adequate insurance coverage when you venture out driving during the winter season when heavy snow is expected.
Winter Ice and Car Insurance
Your insurance company will take care of any unforeseen losses resulting from accidents if any. Many motorists are not aware that if they get into an accident due to ice, freezing rain or sudden winter weather change their insurance companies will categorize them as ‘at-fault’ and would raise their insurance rates. Winter driving can be dangerous so requires drivers to be extra careful and alert. Animals like deer are attracted by the salt on the road surface and are often get hit by motorists. Most insurers do not accept the argument that the accident was because of the bad weather. So if you swerve to avoid hitting the animal and collide with another vehicle or a ditch your vehicle damage will be covered by your collision insurance coverage. Even in this case the insurance company will categorize this as your fault and will increase your rate without any doubt.
The only way is to drive very carefully as the winter season and it is best to avoid driving. It is difficult to drive because of the weather conditions and the poor visibility. Added to this if there is heavy snow or rain driving can be dangerous. So you must be well prepared to be able to save your and your passenger’s lives. Safe winter travel entails preparation and knowing how to handle the situation when you are stranded on the road.
To be safe, you should have your car checked just before the start of winter season to get it ready for the winter road conditions. Get it checked by a qualified mechanic for brakes, battery, thermostat, fluid and wipers, ignition system, exhaust system, antifreeze, oil level, if winter grade oil is sued, lights, defrosters and heater etc. Having snow tires is a good idea to be safe while driving on snow and ice. Make sure that all parts of the car are operational before the trip.
Take an emergency kit and let others know about your trip. The kit must contain ice scraper, shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, Flares or warning triangles, blankets and sleeping bags, jumper cables, matches and candles, help sign, medications, canned food, hat and gloves, first aid kit and tool kit etc. Check the weather before leaving. Take your mobile phone and charger too along to use in unexpected situations.
The best way to feel protected is to take car breakdown insurance. Car breakdown insurance will pay for losses from accidents due to heavy snow, ice or winter weather conditions.