Why single vehicle claims are higher in winter

Did you know that winter has the highest rate of single vehicle claims (when an accident only involves one vehicle) than any other season?

This is because in the winter drivers are far more likely to lose control. Poor road conditions – like ice, snow or driving rain – can all make the roads a more dangerous place to navigate.

But that’s not all. Winter also sees an increase of claims where objects have fallen onto cars – such as trees or large branches. Winter tends to have a higher proportion of storms than other seasons, and with high winds comes the risk of falling trees and swirling leaves and debris, all of which can cause significant damage to your vehicle.

Our three top tips to avoid winter claims

Check your tyres

Having good grip on your tyres is essential for slippery conditions. We’ve got lots of great tips around tyre pressure, tread and general condition in this article.

Check your windscreen wipers

Visibility is also essential – and windscreens can get really grubby in the winter. Run your fingers along your windscreen wipers to check for any splits them, and make sure you’ve got plenty of screen wash in your car. It’s a good idea to test your wipers with a little bit of screen wash on a clear day so that you don’t get caught out in the rain.

Park safely

If you know a storm is coming, have a think about where you usually park your car. Try to avoid parking anywhere near trees. If you can park in a garage or covered area, that’s ideal. If not, a car cover or tarpaulin can still protect your vehicle from scratches.

See also  Travelling abroad with dogs