As the winter season approaches, it’s crucial to prepare not only your vehicle for the colder months but also your auto insurance policy. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures bring unique driving hazards that can increase the risk of accidents. Reviewing your auto insurance before winter hits ensures that you’re properly covered in case something goes wrong. Here is why it’s important and what to look for when reviewing your policy.
Winter driving risks are higher.
Winter driving conditions are far more dangerous than other times of the year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 70% of the nation’s roads are located in snowy regions, and about 24% of weather-related crashes happen on snowy, slushy, or icy roads. Whether it’s black ice or low visibility during snowstorms, winter weather can turn even a short commute into a hazardous journey.
Ensuring that your auto insurance covers common winter risks, such as collision and comprehensive coverage, is essential to protect you from unexpected costs if an accident occurs. Even the most experienced drivers can find themselves in a fender bender when the roads are dangerous.
Liability coverage can be vital.
Liability coverage is part of your auto insurance policy that covers you in case you are at fault in an accident and cause damage to someone else’s vehicle or property. Given the higher likelihood of winter accidents, it is important to ensure you have enough liability coverage. If your coverage limits are too low, you could end up personally responsible for costs exceeding your policy’s maximum.
Increasing your liability coverage before the winter months can provide you with peace of mind, especially if you regularly drive in areas with heavy snowfall or icy roads.
Check your deductible.
Before winter sets in, it is a good idea to review your comprehensive and collision coverage deductibles. These are the amount that you are required to pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in after a claim. Comprehensive coverage typically helps protect you from non-collision-type damages such as a falling tree or hail damage, while collision coverage typically takes care of repairs to your car if you are in an accident involving another vehicle.
Winter poses a greater risk of damage to your vehicle from things like sliding off the road or hailstorms. Ensuring you have the right deductible can mean the difference between being able to afford repairs quickly or being stuck with a high bill. Consider what you would be comfortable paying out of pocket in the event of an accident when choosing this amount.
Confirm your roadside coverage.
Winter weather can cause all sorts of unexpected problems including dead batteries, flat tires, or vehicles being stuck in the snow. Having roadside assistance as a part of your auto coverage can save you a headache during the winter months. Before winter hits, check to see if your policy includes roadside assistance or if you need to add it.
Consider rental car coverage.
If an accident happens and your vehicle needs extensive repairs, rental car coverage may be a lifesaver during the winter. This coverage helps pay for a rental car while your vehicle is being repaired, up to your policy limits, ensuring that you are not stuck without transportation. Winter accidents often take longer to repair due to the availability of parts and the increased demand for body shops during the season.
Protect yourself against the odds.
Unfortunately, not every driver on the road carries adequate insurance. If you are involved in an accident with someone who has insufficient coverage or no coverage at all, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can protect you from bearing the financial burden. Given the increased chance of accidents in the winter, this type of coverage may be particularly important.
By reviewing your auto insurance before winter, you can hit the road with confidence knowing that you are prepared for whatever the season brings.At DGK Insurance, we can help you assess your current coverage and make any necessary updates to ensure you and your vehicle are well-protected. Stay safe and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being prepared!