Winter driving increases accident rates during the holiday season. Snow, ice, sleet, and freezing rain can transform familiar roads into treacherous surfaces where even experienced drivers lose control. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 70% of the nation's roads are located in snowy regions, and over 70% of the U.S. population lives in these areas. *** When you combine these weather conditions with the surge in traffic as people travel for Christmas celebrations, the risk of accidents multiplies considerably.

December is one of the busiest travel months of the year. Shopping centers have last-minute shoppers, highways are increasingly congested with traffic heading to family gatherings, and delivery vehicles crowd residential streets. This increased congestion means less reaction time, more frequent stops and starts, and greater chances of fender benders or more serious collisions. Even minor accidents can result in significant expenses, from vehicle repairs to medical bills, which your insurance policy covers.

Many drivers maintain minimum liability coverage year-round without considering whether it's adequate for their actual needs. The Christmas season is an ideal time to review your policy and ensure you have appropriate protection. Liability coverage protects you if you're at fault in an accident, covering damage to other vehicles and injuries to other people. However, minimum state requirements often fall short of covering the full costs of a serious accident.

Collision coverage becomes particularly valuable during the winter months. This coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle when you're involved in an accident, regardless of who's at fault. If you slide on black ice into a guardrail or another vehicle, collision coverage ensures you won't be paying thousands of dollars out of pocket for repairs during an already expensive season.

Comprehensive coverage is equally important during winter weather. This protection covers damage to your vehicle from non-collision incidents, such as a tree branch falling on your car during an ice storm, theft from a crowded shopping center parking lot, or damage from hitting a deer on a dark country road. 

A possible scenario: You're driving home from a Christmas party when you hit a patch of black ice and slide into another vehicle. The other driver suffers injuries requiring emergency room treatment and physical therapy. Their vehicle, a newer model SUV, sustains significant damage. If your liability coverage is set at Maryland’s state minimum, $25,000 per person for bodily injury, then you could be personally responsible for any costs exceeding that amount. Medical bills and vehicle repairs can easily surpass minimum coverage limits, leaving you facing potential financial devastation.

Without adequate coverage, you might find yourself dealing with lawsuits, wage garnishment, or even bankruptcy. This is why experts consistently recommend carrying liability limits well above state minimums. It is recommended that you have $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $100,000 for property damage.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage protects you when the other driver lacks adequate insurance. During the busy holiday season, this coverage becomes even more critical. If an uninsured driver causes an accident that injures you or damages your vehicle, this coverage ensures you're not left covering the expenses yourself.

Rental car reimbursement coverage can also prove invaluable during the holidays. If your vehicle is damaged and needs repairs, this coverage pays for a rental car so you don't miss important holiday gatherings or work commitments while your car is in the shop.

Don't wait until after an accident to discover gaps in your coverage. The Christmas season, with its unique combination of challenging weather and increased traffic, highlights why comprehensive car insurance is essential protection for your financial security and peace of mind.

Ready to ensure your car insurance coverage is adequate for winter driving? Contact Lindquist Insurance today for a free policy review. Our experienced agents will help you understand your current coverage, identify any gaps, and provide recommendations tailored to your needs and budget. Visit www.lindquistinsurance.com to schedule your consultation. Don't let inadequate coverage put your family's financial security at risk this holiday season. Let us help you drive with confidence, no matter what winter throws your way.

Serving the Annapolis, MD, and Frederick, MD area. 

*** Visit the U.S. Department of Transportation/Federal Highway Administration website for more information.