Everyone knows that going claims-free is the very best way to keep your auto insurance premiums as low as possible — something that is very important as the cost of living continues to rise. But every time you get behind the wheel, there’s a chance something unexpected could happen.
Thankfully most trips end without incident, but every year thousands of Alberta drivers file auto insurance claims for reasons such as collisions, weather damage, theft, and other unforeseen events. Staying aware of the most common causes of auto insurance claims can help reduce your risk, protect your vehicle, and ensure your auto insurance coverage remains as affordable as possible.
1 – Rear-end collisions
Rear-end collisions are the most common type of traffic accident, with an estimated 1.7 to 2.9 million occurring each year in North America. They account for roughly 29% to 40% of all reported car crashes and result in approximately 950,000 injuries and 2,000 fatalities annually. They often occur in heavy traffic, at intersections, or because of having to stop suddenly. Distracted driving, following too closely, and bad road conditions are usual contributing factors.
Although many rear-end collisions happen at relatively low speeds, they can still result in costly repairs, whiplash injuries, and, of course, increased insurance premiums … especially if you are the perpetrator. Maintaining a safe following distance and staying focused on the road are two of the best ways to prevent these types of accidents.
2 – Winter driving accidents
It doesn’t matter how talented a driver you think you may be, winter driving is a challenge even for the most experienced motorists. Snow, ice, freezing rain, and reduced visibility all increase the likelihood of collisions.
Black ice is particularly dangerous because it is nearly invisible. Vehicles lose traction without warning and reaction times are too slow to stop the slide.
Snow-covered roads also increase stopping distances by double, triple and even ten times, depending. Sliding into another vehicle or off the road is very common.
Winter tires are very effective at mitigating loss of control, as is slowing down during poor weather and leaving plenty of extra space between vehicles.
3 – Hail damage
Few places in Canada (and the world) experience severe hailstorms as frequently as Alberta. Calgary and the surrounding area are especially vulnerable during the summer, when powerful thunderstorms produce hailstones large enough to dent vehicles, crack windshields, and damage paint.
Unlike collision claims, hail damage is covered under comprehensive auto insurance rather than collision coverage. If your vehicle is parked outside during a storm, even a few minutes of intense hail can result in thousands of dollars in repairs.
Whenever possible, park in a garage, covered parkade, or under a carport when severe weather is forecast.
Purchase blankets or a tarp to cover your vehicle if you are not able to park it in a sheltered area and keep a close eye on weather forecasts.
4 – Wildlife collisions
Alberta’s highways pass through many gorgeous landscapes where wildlife is as abundant as the beauty. Deer are responsible for the most vehicle collisions each year, but drivers may also encounter elk, moose, and other large animals. Larger animals, particularly moose, can cause extensive vehicle damage and pose serious safety risks to occupants.
Wildlife collisions are most common during dawn and dusk when animals are more active and visibility is reduced. Staying alert in wildlife crossing zones, reducing speed, and using high beams when appropriate can help drivers spot animals sooner and react safely. If an animal suddenly darts out in front of your vehicle, experts advise braking firmly. In many cases, drivers are going far too fast to be able to check traffic, and so often there is no time to swerve to avoid an animal, and nor should you. Evasive actions at high speeds may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. If you do have time to check traffic around you, and there’s nobody behind or in the oncoming lanes, by all means do your best to avoid the animal.
If there is no other choice but to hit the animal, while braking, try to steer to hit it at an angle rather than head-on. This increases your chance of a glancing blow that may not cause as much harm, and causes the front end of your vehicle to rise and reduce the chances of the animal coming through your windshield.
5 – Windshield damage
Small rocks and road debris are unavoidable on many Alberta highways, particularly during spring when gravel spread on icy roads or after winter sanding operations has not been picked up yet.
A tiny chip in your windshield may seem insignificant, but temperature changes can quickly cause it to spread into a large crack requiring full windshield replacement. Do not just leave a large crack if one develops. It will simply create more cracks and reduce the structural integrity of your vehicle.
Repairing chips early is often quicker and less expensive than replacing an entire windshield.
6 – Parking lot accidents
Parking lots may seem low-risk because vehicles travel at slower speeds, but they are a surprisingly common location for auto insurance claims. Parking lot incidents account for about 20% of all motor vehicle accidents, which translates to roughly 14% of all auto damage insurance claims
Backing into another vehicle, scraping parked cars, opening doors into adjacent vehicles, or striking shopping cart corrals can all result in property damage claims. Make sure to let other drivers know what your intentions are by using your turn signals and driving slowly. Don’t fight for a “close” spot, just park further away when necessary.
Many parking lot accidents when drivers fail to check blind spots before reversing. Taking a few extra seconds to look around carefully using your mirrors and your eyes before moving can prevent a costly claim.
7 – Vehicle theft
Vehicle theft is a major concern in Alberta, as we have the highest per capita vehicle theft rate in Canada. Newer SUVs, pickup trucks, and luxury vehicles are especially at risk. In many cases, thieves target vehicles equipped with keyless entry systems or steal them for export or resale.
In addition to complete vehicle theft, criminals may also steal catalytic converters, wheels, or just help themselves to valuables left inside.
Parking in well-lit areas, locking your doors, removing valuables from sight, and installing anti-theft devices can significantly reduce your risk.
8 – Distracted driving
Despite increased awareness and tougher penalties, distracted driving continues to contribute to many collisions across Alberta. Distracted driving is the cause of a quarter of Alberta’s auto accidents, and insurance companies are taking note. Consumers are telling of incidences where they had their collision coverage removed while their rates were also increased considerably – some say as much as 25%.
Using a cellphone, adjusting navigation systems, eating, or interacting with passengers can divert a driver’s attention long enough to cause an accident. It only takes three seconds of inattention to cause an accident.
Eliminating distractions before starting your trip to focus entirely on driving defensively remains one of the best ways to avoid an insurance claim.
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