Insurer Swiftcover reported a 75% increase in the number of claims last week and most were caused by the weather. And many drivers feel let down because of the way their car has coped - or isn't coping - with the snow.
Rear-wheel cars such as BMWs and Mercedes tend to fare worst in snow and obviously 4x4s are best-equipped to handle adverse weather conditions. As such, many experts are predicting a surge in demand for four-wheel and all-wheel drive vehicles in light of the 'Big Freeze'.
In a poll on moneysupermarket.com, 28% of people said they are now considering changing their car as a result of problems last week. And there are indications that their experiences are resulting in immediate action on this matter.
Analysis of more than one million searches on moneysupermarket.com's car insurance comparison tool showed an increase in those looking to insure a 4x4 vehicle since the snow started falling last week. In fact, in the five days since 5 January 2010, searches for 4x4 car insurance were up 42% compared to the same period in December.
Once the snow had truly swept across the country by Thursday 7 January, searches on 4x4 models peaked, with more than 3% of all car insurance searches on Friday 8 January being for a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Steve Sweeney, head of car insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said of the surge in queries: "It appears many Brits found failings in their vehicles once the heavy snow hit, finding that their cars just couldn't cope with such extreme weather conditions.
"It is understandable after seeing more snow than usual in such a short period of time that people may be thinking about preparing themselves against any further snowy conditions that are on the way, or indeed, if snow filled winters are to be a regular occurrence in the future. However, when we do suffer from such severe snow and ice causing treacherous driving conditions, the advice is generally to stay off the roads entirely. Having a more able vehicle for driving in the snow is not a guarantee that your journey would be any safer or less eventful when faced with such unpredictable driving conditions."
Top tips for driving your car in extreme winter conditions:
- Follow official advice wherever possible. If this is: 'Do not travel unless absolutely necessary' then please think very carefully before deciding to venture out in your car.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear should you need to get out of your car during your journey, and where possible carry a fully charged mobile phone in case you come to a stop and need assistance.
- Keep items such as food, water, blankets, torch and spade in your car in case you become stuck or stranded.
- Keep your lights on whilst driving; even in the daytime so that other drivers can better see you should visibility deteriorate.
- Where possible, tell someone where you are headed and your intended route should you not arrive or need assistance on the way.
- Clear all snow off your car especially windows. Also clear your roof and bonnet to stop it impairing your view should it move whilst driving.
- Stopping distances are ten times longer in the snow and ice so please be aware and slow down, leaving an adequate distance between you and the car in front.
- Try and maintain a constant speed and avoid changing gear especially when driving up or down hill.
- Drive with care, even on treated roads, and apply brakes gently.
Rate This Article
Click on a star to rate this article.
