Winter Hazards: Snow, Ice, and Your Car

If you listen closely, you can already hear radio stations across New England loading up the Christmas music. As we careen towards the end of fall, and prepare for the cold, long winter which lies ahead, a lot of us will start thinking about our cars. Winter creates a multitude of problems, especially for drivers. So let’s take a look at the biggest hazards for winter drivers in the first part of our three part series on winter hazards.

Regular and Black Ice

Our first hazard should always be on the mind of New England drivers. Ice, specifically black ice, is the most subtle hazard because it is often incredibly hard to see. A road can look completely clear but be loaded with patches of ice waiting to take your car for a spin. As a driver, make sure you cruise the area at a low speed and are always in control of your vehicle. It only takes one lapse in concentration and your car could be spinning.

Snow Covered Roads

Ice’s best friend will also haunt your driving experience this winter. Snow not only causes slippery road conditions, but also creates havoc for the other aspects of your driving experience. Snow destroys visibility on the road both when it actually falls from the sky and during the aftermath. Try looking out of your windshield during a snowstorm, or gaining the proper sightline to make a left turn around a giant snow bank formed by a plow. Just as with ice, snow makes roadways dangerous, so slow down and avoid sudden shifts in speed or direction.

Fallen Trees And More

Snow, cold weather, and all that winter entails not only cause havoc for our roadways, but also to Mother Nature’s creations. Many trees are not built to handle the heavy weight of snow or freezing rain, causing branches and sometimes entire trees to fall to the ground. Fallen trees can congest roadways, causing traffic and a higher likelihood of an accident or, even worse, can badly damage a car by falling on top of it. Snow and ice can also drag down other things, like power lines or roofing.

Parking and Snow Plows

Everyone who parks on a street knows this fear: a snow plow does not see your car under a mountain of snow and collides with it. Like trees accidents, snow plow incidents can only be avoided with proper planning and caution. If possible try and find a non-street parking option for your car. Many places even forbid street parking in the snow. If this is not possible, be sure to dig your car out, as a plow is much less likely to hit you if the driver can see you.

Those are a few of the hazards to watch out for this winter. Many of these hazards are not covered under standard auto insurance. Additional insurances such as comprehensive insurance, which covers damage to your vehicle when unoccupied, can provide the coverage and peace of mind you need to get through the New England winter. Want to fully explore your options? Contact the agents at the H&K Insurance Agency. We will ensure you know what you are covered for, so when disaster strikes, we will be right there.