Statistically speaking, an average driver will have three or four accidents in their lifetime, each often resulting in a car insurance claim[1]. Sometimes, a claim is completely unavoidable. However, there are a number of ways you can manage your risk on the road and reduce your chance of having to make a claim.
Keep Your Eyes on the Road
Distracted driving is now the leading cause of driving fatalities in Canada. Today, we have a lot of things competing for our attention. Consider turning your phone notifications off until you reach your destination. If you find yourself ‘zoning out,’ turn off entertainment options that may serve as distractions.
Park Undercover
Hail and storm-related damage are common causes of claims. When you can, consider parking your vehicle undercover. There’s one exception: do your best not to park directly under trees as they do not protect your vehicle from hail and can be the cause of further damage from falling tree branches.
Keep Your Distance from Large Trucks
On the highway, large trucks cause damage by kicking up stones. While it doesn’t happen often, trucks can also drop unsecured materials from their bed. Bricks, stones, and other transported materials can be extremely dangerous at a high speed. Do your best to keep a safe distance from these vehicles.
Use the Highway When Possible
Most accidents occur in the city. Many people are nervous about highway driving because it’s at a higher speed, but highway driving actually tends to be safer, statistically speaking.
Use a Backup Camera
In public parking lots it’s easy not to see someone driving towards you when you’re backing out of a spot. If you do have a camera installed, make it a habit to use it and always be cautious when you’re backing up.
Even low speed accidents like these can make for expensive claims, with all the technology and sensors that go into today’s modern vehicles a simple ‘fender bender’ can be quite costly. To ensure your safety and others’, pull through parking spots so you can drive our front-first whenever possible.
Don’t Drive When You’re Tired
Tired driving can be as impactful as distracted driving. If you’re tired, pull over. Try to find some place to rest before you get back on the road. If you regularly need to drive long distances, consider planning for a stop in the middle of your trip instead of trying to drive straight through.
Take a Defensive Driving Course
If you feel uncertain about your driving skills (or if you find other drivers in your area unusually aggressive), consider taking a defensive driving course. A course can teach you techniques to avoid accidents that others may cause.
No one wants to have to file an insurance claim, yet most people will have to eventually. Don’t get stuck after a claim worrying about having the right coverage. To review your current policy and ensure the coverage and deductibles are right for you, contact us at 1.844.929.4768.
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