Autumn is Here, is Your Insurance Ready?
Insurance claims tend to change with the seasons. Along with the falling leaves and dropping temperatures, the fall season time brings about new types of hazards, and new trends in personal insurance claims.
Talking to your local Connecticut insurance agent can help you to learn more about the seasonal risks on the horizon, and they will be able to better walk you through the claims process for anything that you may experience. But before we get to that point, let’s take a look at some of the more prevalent claims for this time of year.
Animal Collisions
As development spreads into natural habitats, deer and moose can be found in highly populated areas, especially as food becomes scarcer. Hitting a large animal can be just as dangerous as hitting another car, so always wear a seatbelt. Animals tend to be more active at dawn and dusk. Most wildlife-related accidents tend to occur between October and December.
Rear-end Collisions
Approximately 1.7 million rear-end collisions happen in the U.S. each year, according to the National Transportation Safety Board. Most claims take place in the fall; 87% of them being drivers who aren’t paying attention.
Back up slowly, checking mirrors and windows multiple times, and leave at least a car’s distance between you and the car in front of you while driving.
Parking Lot Accidents
With the holidays near, more shoppers are out and about. This means more drivers and an increase in parking lot-related claims. Damage from shopping carts, car thefts and tight parking spaces are just a few of the hazards. About a fourth of parking lot-related claims occur between October and December. Try to park away from all the commotion, in well-lit areas.
Auto Thefts
Approximately a quarter of the year’s auto theft claims occur during fall. Cars full of gifts and other items may tempt thieves. Take preventative actions to reduce the chances of theft such as hiding expensive items, take photos of valuables, and keeping receipts. Don’t be afraid to have mall security walk you to your car.
Home Thefts
There is a large increase in home robberies when the weather turns cooler. Keep lights on a timer and use motion detectors for outdoor lights. Today’s home apps let owners monitor remotely to see who is coming and going. Valuables should be stored in either a fireproof safe or a safety deposit box.
Fire and Smoke
In the fall, as more time is spent indoors and fireplaces, wood stoves and candles become the culprits. A small flame can engulf a home in a matter of seconds. Smoke can also pose significant dangers.
Reduce the likelihood of fire by inspecting and clean chimneys often, opening the flute before starting a fire, and never leaving lit candles or items on the stove unattended.
Water Damage and Freezing
Freezing pipes and water damage account for a large portion of claims in the fall. Busted pipes, dishwashers, water heaters, ice makers, water supply lines and toilet valves are frequent sources of water damage. Turn the main water valve off when leaving a home for several days to reduce the risk.
About Byrnes Agency
At Byrnes Agency, we offer auto insurance solutions that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you have an old classic car or a brand-new model, we have the right coverage for you. To learn more about our products, contact us today at one of our two locations.
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Phone: (860) 774-8549
394 Lake Rd
Dayville, CT 06241
United States
info@byrnesagency.com
Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm
Phone: (860) 886-5498
6 Consumers Avenue
Norwich, CT 06360
United States
info@byrnesagency.com
Hours of Operation: Monday- Friday 9:00am-5:00pm