4 Tips to Avoid an 大发888dafa Claim This Winter
If you're like many Americans, you've been hit by a hefty dose of winter recently. Even if you're used to snowstorms, 暴雨, 和刺骨的寒冷, there are a few things you can do now to prepare for or prevent a weather-related insurance claim.
约1.6 percent of homes experience damage from water or freezing every year, with the cost of repair averaging $11,650.1 Whether you're experiencing unexpected snow in the South or thunderstorms in the Northeast, the danger of water damage is prevalent across the country.
随着冬天的继续, keep these four tips in mind to stay safe and (hopefully) avoid a costly insurance claim.
建议1:避免走岔路
If you have to drive, you should avoid side roads that may contain long-lasting ice or snow. Side roads may be sheltered by the shade of homes or trees, making snow and ice last longer. +, snow plows tend to heavily hit the most used roads first, such as highways and main streets in cities and towns.
If you see an accumulation of water on the street, you should turn around or drive around the water if it is safe to do so. Driving through a flooded area can cause serious damage to your vehicle and can be hazardous to your safety.
Tip #2: Put Emergency Supplies in Your Vehicle
Some auto insurance companies will offer 24/7 roadside assistance as a part of your policy, which may come in handy during periods of inclement weather. If your vehicle becomes stranded in the snow, there are a couple of things you'll want to have on hand as you await assistance.
Emergency supplies can be kept in your trunk, and they may be used to keep you warm and nourished, or help you get "unstuck" from the snow.
Some emergency supplies to consider keeping in your car include:
- 毯子
- 手电筒
- 刮冰机
- 折叠式雪铲
- 零食和瓶装水
- Battery-supplied phone charger
- Cat litter or sand (used for gaining traction on snow and ice)
技巧3:注意裂缝
If you have small cracks in your driveway, 人行道, 或人行道, you'll want to keep an eye on them during winter—especially after heavy precipitation. Rain or snow (as it melts) can seep into small cracks in concrete or asphalt. As water 冻结s and turns to ice, it expands. If you're experiencing below-freezing temperatures in your area, this could cause cracks to fill with water, 冻结, 然后变大. Keeping your 人行道 shoveled and salted can make it easier to spot these issues before they become larger (more costly) problems down the line.
技巧4:为了安全而铲
Whether it's a couple of inches or several feet, homeowners are generally responsible for keeping sidewalks and 人行道 clear on their property. States and regions have their own regulations regarding snow removal, so you'll want to become familiar with your local regulations.
Being prepared and responsible can help you get through the winter blues. It can also help you avoid costly mistakes, headaches, and potential injuries. As you work to weatherproof your vehicle and home this winter, don't forget to double-check your homeowner’s insurance and auto policies and make any updates or adjustments you need to stay well covered.
1. 3.org, 2022
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