Winter Road Safety: How to Avoid Common Car Insurance Claims and Save Money This Winter

By the Mercury Team

According to the Federal Highway Administration, more than 116,800 people are injured in car crashes during wintry conditions every year. Snow, ice, and reduced visibility create hazards that can lead to accidents, injuries, and financial strain. Luckily, you can mitigate these risks with the right preparation and safe driving habits. In this guide, we’ll show you how to handle winter roads safely while avoiding costly auto insurance claims.

The Cost of Winter Accidents and Insurance Claims

Let’s explore how winter accidents can affect your insurance premiums and what coverage options you should know about to protect yourself.

The Financial Impact of Filing a Claim

Winter weather brings icy roads, poor visibility, and other hazards that lead to more accidents—and more insurance claims. When claims spike, insurance companies may increase premiums to offset their financial risk. Unfortunately, this can mean higher rates for drivers who file claims, even if the accident wasn’t their fault.

On top of that, winter accidents can come with hefty out-of-pocket expenses. For instance:

• Deductibles: Even with insurance, you may need to pay a deductible — the amount you pay before insurance covers the rest. This can strain your budget during an already expensive time of year.
• Costly repairs: Winter-related accidents, like sliding on black ice or damage from snow, can lead to expensive repairs — especially if you end up filing multiple claims in a short time.

Insurance Coverage for Winter-Specific Incidents

Does insurance cover snow accidents and other winter-related incidents? Yes, so it’s a good idea to know how your insurance can help if you’re caught in a snowstorm or hit a patch of black ice. Here’s what you need to know about the most common types of coverage:

• Comprehensive coverage: This is your go-to for non-collision issues, like a tree branch falling on your car after a heavy snowfall or hail damaging your windshield.
• Collision protection: If you slide on icy roads and hit another car or a guardrail, collision protection helps pay for repairs to your vehicle, no matter who’s at fault.
• Liability protection: If you’re at fault in an accident, liability insurance covers the other driver’s damages or injuries, which can save you from paying out of pocket.
• Roadside assistance: Many policies offer this as an add-on, and it’s a lifesaver in winter. Whether you’re stuck in the snow, dealing with a dead battery, or need a tow, roadside assistance can help.

Actionable Driving Practices to Stay Safe This Winter

Winter driving can be tricky, but these tips can help keep you safe behind the wheel.

Navigating Black Ice and Slippery Roads

Black ice can catch even the most experienced drivers off guard — it’s nearly invisible and incredibly slick. It’s most common in shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses, so take extra care when driving through these spots. Here’s what to do if you encounter it:

• Stay calm: If your vehicle begins to skid, avoid panicking. Take your foot off the gas pedal to prevent the wheels from spinning further, which can worsen the skid.
• Steer into the skid: When your car slides, gently steer in the direction the back of your car is skidding. For example, if your rear wheels are sliding to the right, turn your steering wheel to the right. This technique helps realign your car and regain control.
• Avoid oversteering or sudden movements: Sharp or jerky steering can cause you to lose even more control. Instead, keep your movements smooth and deliberate. Small, gradual adjustments are key to keeping your car steady.

Smart Braking Techniques

It’s a common, natural reaction, but it’s important to resist the urge to slam on your brakes because it can lock your wheels and make skidding worse. If your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady, even pressure to the brake pedal and let the system do its job. If your car doesn’t have ABS, pump the brakes lightly and gently to prevent your wheels from locking up.

Regardless of your braking system, always start slowing down well before you need to stop, especially at intersections or on hills.

Adapting to Sudden Weather Changes

Winter weather can change in an instant. One minute, the road looks clear, and the next, you’re driving through a blizzard or freezing fog. Here’s how to stay safe:

• Slow down: Reducing your speed is the easiest, most effective way to handle sudden weather changes.
• Turn on your lights: If visibility drops, switch on your headlights (not just your daytime running lights) to help others see you. Avoid using high beams in fog or heavy snow, as they can reflect and reduce visibility even further.
• Stay focused: Keep your attention on the road and minimize distractions. In poor conditions, you need to be ready to react quickly.
• Avoid sudden movements: Whether it’s accelerating, braking, or steering, always make gradual adjustments to avoid losing traction.

When conditions worsen, don’t hesitate to pull over to a safe spot and wait it out. Your safety is more important than rushing to your destination.

Reducing Insurance Costs Through Winter Preparedness

From discounts to the long-term benefits of accident-free driving, here’s how to keep your premiums in check while staying safe on the road.

Qualifying for Auto Insurance Discounts

One of the best ways to save on your premium is by taking advantage of auto insurance discounts. Here are some opportunities to explore:

• Install safety equipment: Many insurers offer discounts for vehicles with advanced safety features. Adding features like winter tires, anti-lock brakes (ABS), or electronic stability control (ESC) to your car can make a big difference on icy roads.
• Good driver discounts: Maintaining a clean driving record through the winter months can help you qualify for good driver discounts.
• Bundle policies: If you’re already juggling multiple types of insurance (like home or renters, bundling them with your auto policy can unlock big savings. It’s worth asking your provider about available options.
• Usage-based programs: Some insurers offer discounts for drivers who use telematics devices or apps to monitor safe driving habits. These programs reward cautious behaviors like steady speeds and gentle braking—perfect for winter driving.

How Avoiding Claims Helps Keep Premiums Low

Every claim you file can have a ripple effect on your insurance rates, and that’s especially true for accidents during winter. Here’s how staying claim-free benefits you:

• Lower risk profile: Insurance companies see accident-free drivers as less risky, which means they’re more likely to reward you with lower premiums at renewal time.
• Accident forgiveness perks: Some insurers offer programs that forgive a first accident for long-term safe drivers. The fewer claims you file, the better your chances of qualifying for these perks.
• Avoiding surcharges: Filing a claim—even for minor winter incidents—can result in a surcharge on your premium. Practicing defensive driving and avoiding accidents can keep your rates steady.
• Long-term savings: Consistent, claim-free driving can unlock rewards like loyalty discounts and eligibility for premium reductions over time.

Winter Emergency Readiness for Drivers

Winter can throw all kinds of surprises at you, but a little preparation can make a challenging situation much easier to handle. Here’s how to build an emergency winter kit and the steps you need to take if you get in an accident.

Build a Winter Emergency Kit

Take a look at some essential items to include in your emergency kit:

• Tire chains or traction aids: These can give your car the grip it needs if you’re stuck on an icy patch.
• De-icer and ice scraper: There’s not much worse than trying to drive with frozen windows—keep these handy to clear ice quickly.
• Jumper cables or a portable battery pack: Cold weather is hard on car batteries, so these can save the day if yours dies.
• Flashlight and extra batteries: Whether it’s dark outside or you’re stuck in poor visibility, a flashlight is a must.
• Warm clothing and blankets: Keep a spare coat, gloves, and a blanket in your car to keep you warm, especially if you’re waiting for roadside assistance.
• Snacks and water: Pack a few energy bars and bottles of water in case you’re stuck for a while.
• First aid kit: For any minor injuries, a basic first aid kit is invaluable.

What to Do Immediately After a Winter Accident

Accidents happen, even when you’re driving carefully. If you find yourself in one, here’s how to handle it safely and calmly:

1. Put safety first: Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If everyone’s okay, move your car to a safe spot (if possible) to avoid blocking traffic. Don’t forget to turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Call for help: Call 911 right away, especially if there are injuries or serious damage. Even for minor accidents, it’s a good idea to notify the local police to document the incident.
3. Document everything: Take photos of the damage, the road, and the surrounding conditions (like icy patches or snow buildup). This will come in handy for insurance claims.
4. Exchange information: Share your name, contact info, and insurance details with the other party involved. Stay calm and avoid discussing who’s at fault. Leave that to the professionals.
5. Contact your insurance company: Report the accident as soon as you can. Most insurance providers have apps or 24/7 hotlines to make this step easier. Share the photos and information you’ve collected to help with the claims process.

Conclusion

Winter can be a tricky time on the roads, but with these tips, you can handle those icy patches and sudden winter storms with confidence while saving money. Want extra peace of mind? Mercury offers reliable coverage and cheap auto insurance options to help you stay protected without breaking the bank.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!