Actually, the "collision" portion of car insurance (optional) pays for "damage to the policyholder's car resulting from a collision with another car, an object or as a result of flipping over," says the Insurance Information Institute. It also covers damage by potholes and is sold with deductibles of $250 to $1,000.
"Comprehensive" covers "loss due to theft or damage caused by something other than a collision with another car or object, such as fire, falling objects, missiles (flying rocks, limbs, hubcaps), explosions, earthquakes, windstorms, hail, flood, vandalism and riots or contact with animals (birds, deer). Comprehensive insurance is usually sold with a $100 to $300 deductible." One-quarter of motoring Americans have no comprehensive.
Below are tips to better driving:
- Visibility: The institute says winter motoring safety starts with keeping front and rear windshields clear, focusing on safe vehicle operation and avoidance of speeding.
- Start earlier: Allow enough time to arrive at your destination, knowing trips will take longer in winter than at other times, especially with storm conditions or icy roads. Drive slowly - accelerating, stopping and turning all take longer on snow-covered roads.
- Clear distance: Leave more distance between your vehicle and those ahead of you, giving yourself at least 10 seconds to come to a complete stop. Cars and motorcycles usually need three seconds to stop on dry pavement.
- Bridges: Bridges and always-shaded roads are icy when other areas are not.
- Stopping: Avoid sudden stops and quick turns.
- Cruise control: Don't use cruise control when driving on slippery surfaces.
- Cell phone: Cell phones help in strandings by letting those awaiting your arrival call you when you're overdue. Avoid the temptation to use the phone while driving as this is a dangerous distraction and runs down the batteries you'll need when stranded.
- Weather reports: Monitor weather conditions at your destination before starting out. If conditions appear too hazardous, stay home.
- Avoid spinning: Neither apply more foot-feed nor stop when driving on ice or up hills as this makes wheels spin with less control or more difficult to regain momentum.
- The road: Inflate tires to manual specs and replace when tread is less than one-eighth inch. Keep exhaust pipe clear when stuck in drifts to keep out carbon monoxide when the engine is run for heat. Keep gas tank full.
