While the cooler weather may be a welcome change for many Texans, the chill in the air brings with it some winter insurance claims that can really put a damper on the season. From icy roads to household hazards, our insurance experts are here to help you cover all your bases. Read on to discover the top 6 most common winter insurance claims and how to avoid them!

Winter Insurance Claims Around Your Home

Although many of the most common winter insurance claims are born on icy roads, there are a great number of risks to be aware of around your house. As such, we want to draw your attention to the most prevalent for Texas homeowners.

1. Petrified Pipes

Even though snow is a rarity in most parts of Texas, frozen or burst pipes are, unfortunately, not. In fact, pipe damage is one of the most common winter insurance claims for homeowners! While the water damage from frozen or burst pipes is usually covered under your home insurance, it’s one of the more expensive claims to file. With that in mind, be sure to wrap your pipes, especially those with exterior exposure, with plenty of insulation.

2. Ravaged Roofs

Another common winter hazard that every homeowner should be aware of is roof damage. If your gutters are damaged or clogged, water will back up. In frigid enough temperatures, that water can freeze and create ice dams along the edge of your roof. In many cases, icicles are a clear sign of an ice dam problem. While you may not be able to avoid winter roof damage, the right home insurance policy should cover the repair cost!

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Winter Insurance Claims?

If you live in a region prone to hail, we can help you with any additional coverage you may need!

3. Slippery Steps

While you’re busy worrying about property damage, don’t neglect the potential risk of fall-related injuries! If a visitor slips on an icy walkway on your property, you could wind up paying their medical bills for any resulting injuries. However, if you work with the right insurance pro, your policy should include liability coverage for such an event. To avoid such a mishap, keep a close watch over sidewalks, pathways, and steps around your home and keep icy surfaces salted.

4. Fire Fiascos

Nothing makes for a cozier winter evening than curling up next to a warm fire. However, nothing can ruin a winter evening faster than a housefire! Before lighting your first fire of the season, make sure to have your fireplace and chimney cleaned and inspected. You should also take some time to review your home insurance policy with a trusted agent to make sure you have adequate coverage in the event of a house fire.

Winter Insurance Claims: Pro Tip

If you do find yourself driving during more trecherous winter weather, make sure you remove all ice from the windshield and top of your car. If any debris flies off and causes an accident, you’ll be held liable! Explore your liability coverage options by clicking the button below!

Winter Insurance Claims Beyond Your Home

As we mentioned before, there are plenty of roadside disasters that occur during these cold and unpredictable winter months, some of which can bring about some grey areas for many Texas residents. Below are some clarified points to consider for your auto insurance policy this winter.

5. Risky Roads

In looking at common winter insurance claims, we’d be remiss to overlook the risk of driving on icy roads. While regions further north of us may come to mind, winter driving conditions can be just as risky in Texas. While we recommend avoiding driving in any hazardous weather, your best protection is a solid auto insurance policy to cover you when driving is inevitable. With comprehensive and collision coverage, you can rest assured that you’ll be financially insulated from the chill of expensive accident claims. If you cannot avoid driving during hazardous winter weather, make sure to keep your insurance info and AAA’s number handy!

6. Hazardous Hail

Another common phenomenon Mother Nature often throws at us during Texas winters is hail. In fact, according to a report done by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Texas ranked number one in the U.S. in 2019 for hail loss insurance claims! The good news is that your home insurance policy should cover any property damage inflicted by hail. However, your car is a different story. Unless you have comprehensive auto insurance, hail damage will not be covered by your policy. So, park in your garage during the winter months, and consult with a trusted insurance specialist to make sure your home and car are adequately protected!

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Tackle Winter Insurance Claims with Lifetime

From your home and loved ones to your car and travel plans, our experts can help you build the perfect insurance policy to cover you through the winter season and beyond. Our team doesn’t just specialize in insurance – we specialize in Texas insurance, protecting our clients through even the wildest of winters! For your own custom coverage, give us a call at  (972) 771-2622 or visit our website!

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