Are you ready for winter?
With snow, sleet, freezing rain, and plenty of slush just around the corner, collision claims become an unfortunate reality for unprepared drivers. Staying on top of car maintenance and driving to account for tricky road conditions can help reduce your risk and keep your insurance rates low come spring. Check out our tips below to help keep winter driving stress free!
When Was Your Last Check Up?
Harsh weather can be tough on your vehicle making a pre-season check up a crucial part of winter safety. Taking the time to have your fluids, belts, and hoses inspected not only grants you peace of mind, but can put you in the best position to avoid significant mishaps before they happen! Common areas inspected include:
- Check your antifreeze mixture is correct. This plays a vital role in making sure your engine is less likely to freeze up.
- Battery condition. Cold weather can be hard on batteries, especially whose older than 3 years old. If it’s been a while since you had a new battery put in, you might want to have a repair shop test the charge capacity.
- Inspect your windshield wipers. Faulty wipers are often forgot about, but play a vital role in ensuring your ability to see clearly while driving in adverse conditions.
- Tire Pressure. Colder weather can often contribute to fluctuations in your air levels, which may affect your overall traction.
The Winter Tire Debate
There are many different opinions when it comes to the benefits of winter tires versus all-season or all-weather tires. While it’s ultimately up to the driver, reports show that swapping out to seasonally designed tires can help reduce collisions during the winter months (just ask Quebec, which recorded an 18% drop in seasonal collisions after making winter tires mandatory). Some insurance providers even offer discounts to drivers choosing to outfit their car with seasonal tires. If you’re unsure as to whether or not winter tires may be the best fit for your vehicle, speaking to a trusted mechanic may help answer any lingering questions.
Your Insurance Premiums Will Thank You
It’s no secret that extreme weather tends to lead to a significant rise in automobile collisions. This is in turns leads to an increase in your premium upon renewal, as well as a claim that stays on file typically for 6 years. This means that a simple slide on the ice that leads to a fender bender can have lasting consequences for drivers, well past the winter season. Ensuring your vehicle is in the best condition for the road, as well as practicing safe driving habits can help reduce your risk for avoidable collisions.
Safety Starts With You
The number one asset when it comes to your safety during the winter is…you! While vigilant driving is always a best practice, it becomes even more important in difficult driving conditions. Plan ahead and give yourself extra time to get to your destination, pay close attention to weather reports, and plan alternate routes when necessary.
The Ravenhill Promise
Ravenhill Agencies understands how important it is to have proper coverage on the road. Our team of experts are here to help you find the best coverages that meet your needs. Get a quick quote now, or contact our team to learn more.
Looking to make an auto related claim? Visit our claims portal for more information.
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