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With the recent nationwide freezing weather as well as the reduced daylight hours associated with the winter months, motorists must make sure they're prepared for wintery driving conditions to avoid any nasty accidents.
Research shows that motorists are nearly twice as likely to have an accident in January when compared to the rest of the year and those motorists, and Sunday 18th January as well as Wednesday 28th January are in the top five worst days of year for car accidents.
January is a bad terrible month for motoring accidents, terrible weather and higher traffic volumes which delay many commuters on their journey to work according to an insurer's research. 58% of motorists admit that they have been late for work at least twice a week due to weather-related motoring issues, including 38 per cent as a result of accidents en route.
We've got some insurer's tips to help motorists stay accident-free during winter:
• Pay to protect your no claim discount: consider paying a small additional premium to protect your no claim discount. Unavoidable incidents can affect any driver at any time - no matter what their driving ability. Adjust your driving style to handle icy conditions.
Avoid sudden braking, use the braking power of the car's engine, leave a greater gap between the car in front, and in a skid, take your foot off the brake and turn into it.• Beware of opportunistic thieves: When defrosting an icy windscreen, never leave your vehicle unattended whilst it's running as making a claim for a 'frosting' theft could leave you uninsured due to negligence.
• Consider the experience of your named drivers: If you have an inexperienced or newly-passed driver added to your car insurance policy then check whether they feel confident driving in icy conditions.
If you are unsure, drive them yourself or accompany them on their journey as your no claim discount will be impacted, not theirs.
• If in doubt, take public transport: It's crucial to be calm and confident when behind the wheel. If you're nervous, don't drive. Also, consider whether your vehicle is likely to handle poorly in wintery weather. A rear-wheel-drive sports car is not the safest option on icy roads, even for the most experienced motorist.
Not only is motor insurance vital in the risky winter weather conditions, but it is also a legal requirement, so here are some simple steps to save on your car insurance.
• Search and buy online - Always search the market to find a competitive premium. Choose a relevant (not just cheap) policy that covers you for the things that matter to you and be sure to compare policies on a like for like basis. This latter part is often overlooked. Insurers also tend to offer you an extra discount if you buy online.
• Third Party cover v. Comprehensive cover - If your car is of low value think about insuring for third party fire and theft. This will almost definitely reduce your quote.
• Excesses - Always check the excess you are obliged to pay in the event of a claim. By opting for a higher voluntary excess you can reduce the cost of your cover. But remember this is the amount you have to pay before your insurer pays out.
• Drive Carefully - A good driving record is key to getting a low insurance premium. Respect the rules of the road; avoid claims and convictions as these will instantly add to your premium. By building up your no claims bonus insurers will in return reward you with lower premiums.
• Security - If you have access to a garage, make the effort to use it rather than parking your car on the roadside. Alarms and immobilisers will act as a deterrent to thieves. Always remove detachable stereos and valuable items from the vehicle. Insurers will take into account any security measures you have in place.
• Annual v. Monthly premiums - Pay your premium in full each year if you can afford to. This way you will avoid the high APR's that many insurers charge for monthly instalments.
• Annual mileage - Inform your insurer if your annual mileage is low. If you use your car to commute to work, expect more expensive premiums.
• Tell the truth - Never twist the truth when getting a quote for your car insurance. Insurers can refuse to settle a claim if the information you have initially provided them with is found to be untrue.
• Update - You must remember to keep your insurer up to date of any changes to your driver profile. You are obliged to inform your insurer of any convictions, changes of address or modifications to you vehicle - all of which can affect the premium you pay.
• Younger drivers should avoid buying expensive high performance cars. Instead they should invest in a smaller cheaper car to start with. Although it is more expensive in the short term they should look to take out a policy in their own name as early
