MALVERN, PA — With winter in full swing, the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) is advising homeowners, renters, and drivers to take proactive steps to safeguard their property and vehicles against the challenges of snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. The organization has outlined key strategies to minimize risks and provided valuable insights into insurance coverage for winter-related damages.
“More and more policyholders are seeing the value in ‘Predict & Prevent’ for managing their risk,” said Sean Kevelighan, CEO of Triple-I. “Recovering from catastrophe can be difficult, as there are some things in life that may be irreplaceable when it comes to the likes of sentimental value. So, as winter sets in, Triple-I encourages property and vehicle owners to take action now to reduce their weather risks. Preventing losses creates a win-win – for consumers and insurers.”
Protecting Homes
To prevent winter weather damage, Triple-I recommends keeping your home heated to at least 65 degrees to help avoid frozen pipes. Allowing faucets to drip slightly also keeps water moving, lowering freeze risks. Homeowners should ensure heat sources, such as fireplaces and electric heaters, are functioning safely and clear of flammable materials.
Outside the home, homeowners should clear gutters, trim damaged tree branches, and monitor snow and ice buildup on roofs. Clearing walkways and entrances is essential for preventing injuries due to slips and falls.
Vehicle Safety
For drivers, understanding auto insurance protections is crucial. Damage like fallen tree branches or flooding is covered under the comprehensive portion of an auto policy, while accidents caused by icy roads are typically covered by standard policies. Comprehensive and collision coverage—which about 75% of U.S. drivers purchase—may apply depending on the accident.
Insurance Coverage
Triple-I affirms that standard homeowners insurance covers damage from wind, snow, and ice. Renters insurance also protects personal belongings from damage due to issues such as burst pipes. Flooding, however, requires separate flood insurance, available through FEMA or private insurers, to address damages caused by snowmelt entering from the ground up.
By following these precautions and understanding their insurance protections, consumers can reduce the risks posed by harsh winter conditions while ensuring coverage for unexpected events.
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