Winter Car Insurance Tips: Are You Covered for Ice and Snow Accidents?

Pennsylvania drivers must be prepared for the unique challenges of ice and snow on the roadways in winter. Preparing for winter driving and ensuring you have the right insurance coverage can significantly affect your safety and financial well-being.

A car accident can be life-altering, especially when caused by winter conditions. Our experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP can help if you have been injured in a car accident. We have been holding negligent drivers accountable for over 75 years and recovering hundreds of millions of dollars for our injured clients.

What Are Some Common Winter Driving Hazards?

Winter’s snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can significantly affect road conditions, making driving more hazardous. Some of the most common dangers include:

• Reduced Visibility: Fog, freezing rain, and snowstorms can drastically reduce visibility, making it difficult to see other vehicles and obstacles.
• Black Ice: Nearly invisible layers of ice that cause tires to lose traction unexpectedly, often forming on bridges, overpasses, and shaded road areas.
• Snowdrifts: Snow accumulations can hide road markings and signs and reduce overall visibility.
• Slippery Roads: Snow and ice create slippery road conditions that reduce traction and make it harder to control your vehicle.
• Freezing Rain and Sleet: Freezing rain creates a dangerous icy coating on roads, while sleet accumulates like snow, making driving difficult.
• Vehicle malfunctions: Cold temperatures can affect your vehicle’s battery, tires, engine, and other components, increasing the risk of breakdowns or accidents.

Does My Car Insurance Cover Winter Accidents?

Standard car insurance policies typically cover accidents caused by snow and ice, but Pennsylvania’s no-fault insurance laws require drivers to first file claims under their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage. Additional types of coverage to review include:

• Liability Coverage: Mandatory in Pennsylvania, this covers damage to other people and property if you are at fault in an accident. However, it does not cover your own vehicle repairs.
• Collision Coverage: Pays for damages to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault.
• Comprehensive Coverage: This covers damages to your vehicle from non-collision incidents, such as ice, snow, falling branches, and hail, as well as theft or vandalism.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Protects you if you are in an accident with a driver with insufficient or no insurance.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.

How Does Winter Affect Insurance Premiums?

Winter driving conditions can impact your insurance premiums. When determining rates, insurance companies may factor in the increased risk of accidents in areas with harsh winters. Some providers offer discounts for taking precautions, such as using winter tires and completing defensive driving courses. Factors affecting winter-related insurance costs include:

• Increased Claims: A higher number of winter accidents means more claims, potentially leading to higher premiums for all policyholders.
• Increased Repair Costs: Vehicles damaged by winter weather can be costly to repair, especially if parts are difficult to source.
• Weather-Related Adjustments: Insurers may adjust premiums based on the frequency and severity of winter weather in your area. Some companies offer accident forgiveness programs to help prevent rate hikes after a single claim.

What Are the Benefits of Roadside Assistance?

Roadside assistance can be invaluable in winter and is often available as an optional add-on to your car insurance. It provides direct services if you become stranded due to a breakdown or accident. The benefits include:

• Towing Services: If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow or ice, roadside assistance can provide towing to a safer location.
• Battery Jump-Starts: Cold weather can drain your battery, and roadside assistance can jump-start a dead one.
• Tire Changes: If you get a flat tire in freezing temperatures, roadside assistance can help.
• Fuel Delivery: Roadside assistance can bring enough fuel to get you to a station if you run out of gas in a remote area.
• Lockout Services: If you lock yourself out of your vehicle, roadside assistance can help you regain access.

Why Is It Important to Review Your Policy Annually?

Reviewing your car insurance policy annually ensures adequate coverage, especially before winter. An annual review helps:

• Assess coverage levels and identify gaps.
• Consider additional options based on changing needs.
• Take advantage of discounts for winter safety features or defensive driving courses.
• Ensure you meet Pennsylvania’s legal insurance requirements.

Should You Increase Your Insurance Coverage During Winter?

Since winter conditions increase the risk of accidents, you may want to consider increasing your insurance coverage. Additional protections include:

• Higher Liability Limits: Provides greater financial protection if you cause an accident.
• Enhanced Collision Coverage: Helps cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle after an accident.
• Comprehensive Add-Ons: Windshield protection or rental car reimbursement can be useful during winter.
• Umbrella Policy: Adds extra liability coverage beyond standard auto insurance.

How Can I Prepare My Vehicle for Winter Driving?

Ensuring your vehicle is ready for winter can reduce the risk of breakdowns and accidents. Essential winter vehicle maintenance includes:

• Brakes: Check for wear and ensure they are in good condition.
• Lights: Inspect all lights, replace burned-out bulbs, and keep them free of ice and snow.
• Heater and Defroster: Ensure they work properly to keep windows clear and the cabin warm.
• Tires: Check tread depth and consider switching to winter tires for better traction.
• Battery: Test battery life and replace if necessary.
• Fluids: Fill all essential fluids, including antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, and engine oil.
• Wipers: Replace worn or cracked wiper blades for better visibility.
• Emergency Kit: Carry blankets, a flashlight, jumper cables, water, and non-perishable food.

Additionally, Pennsylvania law requires drivers to remove snow and ice from their vehicles before driving to prevent fines and potential hazards to others.

How Can I Avoid a Winter Car Accident?

If possible, avoid driving during harsh winter weather. If you must travel, follow these safety tips:

• Allow extra travel time.
• Avoid distractions and keep both hands on the wheel.
• Reduce speed and accelerate/decelerate slowly.
• Increase following distance.
• Avoid sudden movements, braking, and lane changes.
• Turn on headlights in low-visibility conditions.
• Avoid using cruise control.
• Stay informed of weather conditions.

What Should I Do After a Winter Car Accident?

If you are involved in a winter car accident, take the following steps:

• Report the Accident: Pennsylvania law requires reporting accidents that result in injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage.
• Exchange Information: Get contact and insurance details from all involved drivers.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries.
• Gather Witness Statements: Collect contact information from any witnesses.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even minor injuries should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Consult a Lawyer: An experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and seek compensation.

How Can Galfand Berger LLP Help After a Winter Car Accident?

Our skilled legal team can investigate the scene, review police reports, consult with your doctors, interview witnesses, calculate damages, negotiate a settlement with insurance companies, and represent you at trial if necessary.

Some recent car accident settlements and verdicts include:

• $4.5 million settlement for a client left paralyzed after a head-on collision.
• $1.1 million settlement for a client who suffered memory loss and behavioral changes due to a closed head injury in a car accident.
• $1 million verdict for a client who suffered a fractured pelvis and leg in a car accident.

Looking for more information regarding seasonal car insurance? We wrote the book. Check out our Auto Insurance Book for everything you need to know about car insurance in Pennsylvania.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP Have You Covered After a Winter Accident

Winter presents some of the most challenging driving conditions of the year. If you were involved in an accident, our skilled Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger LLP can help you seek justice. Call 800-222-USWA (8792) or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, Bethlehem, Lancaster, and Reading, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Allentown and Harrisburg.