Winter Damage and Comprehensive Car Insurance

Here in New England, every winter can bring on new incidents. However, some only show up in the spring thaw, such as your car taking on some significant damage. While your collision insurance keeps you protected when you’re driving the car, winter has a bad habit of damaging your car, especially when you’re not there. From falling debris to snowmelt damage, many of these hazards aren’t covered under a standard collision policy. This is where comprehensive car insurance comes into play.

Comprehensive Car Insurance Basics

Comprehensive auto insurance is designed to cover your vehicle in circumstances other than when your collision insurance would come into effect, hence its name. Specifically, comprehensive insurance is designed to protect your car while at rest, such as damage from water, fire, or falling objects, or when the other involved party isn’t a car or property. While most Nor’easters mean you won’t have to worry about some circumstances (such as a fire), winter can bring many hazards to your car that might be covered under comprehensive insurance. Read on to learn more, or get your free online quote from H&K to get started.

Common Winter Hazards

Below are a couple of the most common categories of winter damage that can affect your car.

Falling Branches and Trees

Between heavy snow, freezing rain, and snowstorm winds, many trees may find themselves short a few limbs or – in extreme cases – uprooted. Falling objects that impact your car (whether you’re in it or not at the time) are covered in most instances under a comprehensive policy. This is especially important if you live in a wooded area or regularly travel through the wilderness, since it can also cover accidents involving wildlife.

Ice and Water Damage

Snow and ice can impact your car in more ways than one. Falling ice, such as from hail, icicles, or other missiles are all covered under comprehensive insurance. Melting snow can also create a sudden flood for cars. Thankfully, water damage in cars due to flooding is also covered by comprehensive insurance.

If you’ve just recovered from the winter or you’re worried about the next one, comprehensive insurance can help make the New England winter slightly more bearable. Interested in learning more tips for keeping your car and home safe during the winter? Check out our blog. Here at the H&K Insurance Agency, we’re always looking to help people have peace of mind. From life to homeowners to automotive and beyond, contact us today.