17 Nov How Winter Weather Affects Auto Coverage
About The Author
Tiffany Boyle, TPRA, CISR – Personal Risk Advisor
Since joining Gilbert’s Risk Solutions in 2005, Tiffany has dedicated herself to providing personalized insurance solutions to meet clients’ unique personal insurance needs.
Although you may have insurance to cover your vehicle, unpredictable winter weather can really put it to the test. From icy roadways, freezing rain, and heavy snowfall, even a short drive can become hazardous, and some situations may not be covered the way you expect. Understand how winter weather affects auto coverage, and how you can stay prepared when winter hits.
Understanding Your Winter Coverage
Slippery Roads and Collision Coverage – When roads get slick, even a small patch of black ice can send your vehicle sliding into another car, a guardrail or a snowbank. Collision coverage helps pay for repairs to your vehicle, regardless of who’s at fault. For drivers who only carry liability policies, however, that protection won’t extend to their own vehicle — it only covers damage they caused to others.
Falling Branches, Ice, and Comprehensive Coverage – Winter storms can weigh down trees and power lines, causing either branches or debris to fall onto parked vehicles. For these instances, comprehensive coverage applies since it guards against non-collision damage. This would include falling objects, hail, or storm damage. In such cases, without comprehensive coverage, those repairs become an out-of-pocket expense.
Liability Coverage in Winter Accidents – If your vehicle slides on ice and hits another car or property, liability insurance can help pay for the other party’s repairs or medical expenses. It provides critical financial protection — though it won’t cover your own vehicle or injuries.
Winter Weather Challenges
The Hidden Effects of Cold Temperatures – Frigid weather can drain batteries, flatten tires, and thicken fluids, all of which can lead to breakdowns. While insurance won’t cover mechanical wear and tear, roadside assistance coverage can be a lifesaver if you find yourself stranded in freezing conditions.
Reduced Visibility and Increased Risk – Shorter days, blowing snow, and fog make winter driving more dangerous. Because one of the primary contributing factors to winter accidents is limited visibility, it’s very important to keep your liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage current before the first snowstorm.
Unexpected Winter Damage – Winter brings more than accident risks. Cracked windshields from temperature swings, salt corrosion, and freezing damage can all lead to costly repairs. Some may fall under comprehensive coverage, but regular maintenance helps prevent issues that insurers might deny for neglect. If your vehicle requires repairs due to a covered claim, rental car coverage helps ensure you’re not left without transportation.
Stay Protected with Preventive Habits
Even with solid coverage, safe driving is your best defense. Slow down, increase your following distance, and check your tires for proper tread. Always clear snow and ice from your vehicle before hitting the road to prevent visibility issues and flying debris.
Winter driving comes with its own set of challenges, but the right mix of collision, comprehensive, and liability coverage can help protect you from financial stress. Review your policy before the snow starts to fall — a quick check today could prevent a costly surprise later.
Unsure how to know which coverage you may need? Contact one of our talented Risk Advisors today!
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