Winter Drives Up Auto Claims 12 Pct.: Travelers

NU Online News Service, Jan. 20, 4:02 p.m.EST?Auto accident claims rise in frequency by some 12percent during January and February compared to non-winter months,according to a recent insurer study on claims incidence.[@@]

Peter McMurtrie, vice president of claim services at theHartford, Conn.-based Travelers Property Casualty Corp., which didthe study, said snow storms and icy conditions present "aparticular set of driving hazards" for drivers. He added thatpreparing the vehicle for the winter and knowing how to react insevere conditions or if stranded are the keys to safe winterdriving.

His company has a number of suggestions that agents can make tocustomers to prevent accident losses:

? Before a snowstorm hits, have a mechanic check the car'sbattery, brakes, fluid levels (antifreeze, windshield washer fluidand oil), as well as the heating and exhaust systems.

? Try to keep the gas tank full during winter months. Don'tallow the gas to go below half a tank. This will avoid running outof fuel and damage from gas line freezing.

? Install snow tires or all-weather radials.

? Keep an adequate supply of windshield washing liquid to washaway mud and melted snow that can limit visibility.

? Prepare for an emergency. Keep blankets, flares, a sack ofsand for traction, shovel, windshield scraper and brush, tool kit,towrope, booster cables, and a flashlight with extra batteries inthe trunk.

? Use caution while pulling out of streets where visibility isblocked by mountains of snow.

? Back the car into the driveway to have better vision whenpulling out.

? Be aware that in winter, die-hard joggers may be running inthe street for a clearer path.

? When waiting to make a left-hand turn, keep wheels pointedstraight ahead. If wheels are turned to the left in anticipation ofmaking the turn and the car is rear-ended, the car will be pushedinto the path of oncoming traffic.

? If the car doesn't have anti-lock brakes and if it startsskidding on the ice, try not to slam on brakes. Instead, gentlypump brakes to maintain better control and prevent wheels fromlocking. If the car does have anti-lock brakes, slam on brakes whenskidding on the ice.

? If forced to travel during a severe storm, don't travel alone.Notify someone of the estimated time of arrival as well as primaryand alternate travel routes.

? If stuck, stay in the car and wait for help. Run the engineand heater sparingly. Also make sure the exhaust pipe is clear ofsnow and ventilate the car.