As we approach the winter season, there are a number of seasonal concerns to consider, including slippery roads, winter storms, and snow plows.
When it comes to covering winter concerns, having collision and comprehensive insurance on your vehicle is your best chance.
Comprehensive coverage pays for non-crash, frequently weather-related damage, such as chips in your windshield that spread to major cracks in freezing temperatures, whereas collision coverage pays for auto repair fees if you crash into another car or an object.
Here’s everything you need to know about wintertime risks and auto insurance, whether it’s natural calamities or changes in the driving conditions.
Tires for the winter
Winter tires will not only help you drive better in winter weather conditions, but they will also get you a discount from your insurance carrier. In fact, they are required in some areas.
While savings vary by provider, you could expect to save roughly 5% on winter tire installation.
Some insurance companies specify when you must have your winter tires installed and when you must keep them on, so check the tiny print carefully.
You’ll also need a complete set of four tires, all of which must be rated for winter use.
The swipes of a snowplow
Would you be insured if a snow plow collided with your parked car on the side of the road?
The solution isn’t as simple as it may appear.
If you’re parked in a no parking zone or on a snow plow route and a plow smashes your car, you could be held partially or even entirely accountable.
If you go outside to find your vehicle has been damaged by a snow plow in your neighborhood, you’ll need to file a claim with your city or municipality, which will then conduct an investigation and determine if it is accountable for the damage.
If a private plow operator damages your vehicle, cross your fingers that they leave their contact information; otherwise, getting them to pay up may be tough.
Branches of trees that have fallen
Another threat to your vehicle throughout the winter, according to Mother Nature, is falling tree branches, especially during ice storms when branches get so heavy that they snap.
Although you have little influence over whether an icy branch will crack and fall on your car, you may choose your parking spot carefully.
If you don’t have access to a garage or carport, park away from large trees to protect your vehicle.
If a tree or branch falls on your car, you should be covered if you have comprehensive coverage.
Windshield chips are the subject of this article.
Cold conditions can convert a small chip into a major crack, necessitating windshield replacement.
You must have comprehensive coverage in order to file a claim for a new windshield through your insurer.
Some companies require you to purchase windshield repair insurance as an add-on, so check with your broker before filing a claim.
Potholes
During the winter, potholes may be a big source of frustration for drivers.
They’re frequently covered or filled with snow, making visibility difficult until you’re right on top of them.
A very huge pothole can damage your wheel, rim, and possibly your suspension system, resulting in expensive repairs.
For damage to your wheels caused by driving over a pothole, you can file a claim with your own insurance.
If the pothole is a specific size and the city does not fix it, you may be entitled to reimbursement from the city.
As the snow melts and the seasons transition from winter to spring, potholes will become more common, so keep an eye out.
Slowing down is one of the most important things to remember when driving in the cold.
When the roads are wet and icy, the speed limit may be too fast.
You don’t want to get into an accident and have to file a claim on your auto insurance coverage when it could have been avoided.
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