Winter Weather Guide to Auto Insurance

By Meha Ahmad, InsuranceAgents.com Staff Writer

The winter wonderland may seem charming, but it can wreak havoc on your vehicle and your auto insurance. Pot holes scattered across the roads and can make you lose a tire. Hidden patches of black ice can cause an accident. And extreme colds can make it impossible to start your engine. Of course, there are ways to protect your vehicle, and yourself. With proper maintenance and weatherization, you should be prepared for the toll a harsh winter can have on your car. But what’s even more important is getting the right auto insurance. Compare quotes using our online form right now.

You don’t want to find out after you’ve blown a tire in a crater-like pot hole and are waiting for an expensive tow truck or mechanic that your auto insurance plan doesn’t cover it, leaving the cost to come out of your pocket. Incidents like this can be prevented. Here are some tips to weather-proof your auto insurance:

TIP #1: Know your auto insurance plan

Too many drivers spend money on their auto insurance and don’t know the details of the coverage. Only when it’s too late do they realize their auto insurance doesn’t cover winter-related accidents or services like emergency roadside assistance. If your auto insurance plan doesn’t already cover this, consider investing in Emergency Road Service or Towing coverage.

TIP #2: Don’t leave your car unattended

You wake up and look out the window, only to see your car under a nice thick layer of frost. So you start your car and let it warm up while you go back inside to get ready for work. This is a prime opportunity for a car thief. Replacing your car can make your auto insurance skyrocket. Also, keep in mind, there is a very good chance your auto insurance will not replace your vehicle at all. The auto insurance carrier will probably see it as your fault for leaving the keys in the ignition and your car unattended.

TIP #3: Take precautions to lower claims

Many auto insurance claims and related injuries are a result of winter weather. To reduce the amount of auto insurance claims you may have had to make, prepare for the worst by:

• Reducing your speed. With icy and sleek roads, you have less traction. So proceed with less speed.


• Allowing more space between cars. Increase your following speed from the recommended 3 seconds to 4-6 seconds.


• Not slamming on the brakes. Panicking and hitting the brakes will send you skidding. Accidents almost always cause auto insurance premiums to rise, not to mention may cause serious injury. Rather, try to maintain constant pressure on your brakes for better control.


• Getting your car checked BEFORE winter. A great way to avoid auto insurance accident claims is to get your car tuned up and checked out before the first big snowstorm. Check out the battery and ignition systems, tires, brakes, fuel and air filters, and put in some winter weight oil.

TIP #4: Get Comprehensive coverage.

If you live in an area where severe winter weather is common, include comprehensive coverage in your auto insurance. With comprehensive coverage, your auto insurance will reimburse you for any loss due to damage caused by a non-collision related incident, including a fire, falling objects, catastrophic storms and severe weather. You can save hundreds per year by using our online quote forms and comparing offers.

Published: Monday 2nd March 2009