By
Team Writer
/ December 16, 2016
On average, weather-related vehicle crashes kill 6,253 people and injure more than 480,000 each year, according to the Department of Transportation. Most of these accidents occur when the roadways are wet, snowy or icy. When the weather takes a turn for the worse this winter, take precautions if you have to be out on the roadways. Whether there is a coating of snow or ice on the roadways, or the asphalt just looks wet, SLOW DOWN! If the temperature is near freezing, drive like you’re on ice – you may be!
Key Takeaways:
- Farmers Insurance auto claims filed between 2013 and 2016 show that 76% of collision claims caused by skidding on snow or ice occur between December and February.
- Additionally, vehicle theft increased by 9% during the same time period, which now accounts for 25% of all comprehensive claims in the winter.
- Check tires and windshield wipers to ensure they’re in good condition, and fill your wiper fluid reservoir with a no-freeze product.
“winter weather traditionally challenges drivers with ice- and snow-covered roads, new claims data from Farmers Insurance reveals a seasonal uptick in failure-to-yield crashes and vehicle theft as well.”