5 winter driving tips for your clients

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5 winter driving tips for your clients

Auto claims during the winter months increase by 47%, so ensure your clients are prepared

November 30, 2010

The first snowfall can bring a spike in the number of reported auto claims. According to Aviva Canada, claims during the winter months increase by 47%, and weather-related incidents, slippery roadways and whiteout conditions accounted for over $37.8 million in auto claim payments between December 2009 and February 2010.

On an annualized basis, an average of 4.6% of insured drivers make a collision claim in winter months compared to 3.1% during the rest of the year, said Mauro Convertini, vice president of National Auto Claims at Aviva Canada.

“It sounds very simple, but the biggest key to prevention is to slow down as icy road conditions result in vehicle sliding and skidding,” said Convertini.

The P&C insurer provided the following tips for safe winter driving:

1) Drive slowly and keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you.

2) Invest in snow tires and new windshield wipers. Snow tires allow drivers to stop up to 40% faster than all-season tires.

3) Pack an emergency kit at the start of the season and stow it in your trunk. Kit should include a flashlight, blanket, snow shovel, extra windshield washer fluid and anti-freeze, hazard flares and booster cables.

4) Check the road conditions before getting behind the wheel and allow for more time to reach your destination. And if you don’t need to be on the road, stay at home.

5) Program the number for a tow truck company into your cell phone before the first snowfall.