Michigan Winters and the Importance of Insurance
Michigan residents are all familiar with our harsh winters and unpredictable weather. With snow and ice covering the ground Michigan residents don’t only need to think about who is shoveling the driveway but also that their insurance coverage is sufficient.
The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) is asking Michigan residents to be proactive and look over their insurance policies in case of an emergency during this winter season.
Winter-Related Risks in Michigan
The cold temperatures and slippery roads can cause many problems, from damaging your home to car accidents and slips and falls.
- Property Damage: Heavy snowfall and ice buildup can cause damage to roofs, gutters, and the integrity of your home structure. Frozen pipes can also cause issues if they burst, leading to costly water damage inside your home.
- Vehicle Accidents: Icy roads and reduced visibility during snowstorms increase the risk of accidents, putting both drivers and pedestrians at risk.
Types of Insurance Policies for Michigan Winters
The DIFS suggests that residents look over their auto, home, and renters’ insurance policies to make sure their coverage is adequate for any emergency.
- Homeowners Insurance: This policy can cover things like burst pipes, ice dams, wind damage, or a building collapse caused by the weight of ice or snow.
- Auto Insurance: Coverage under your auto insurance policy may protect your vehicle from winter-related incidents like accidents caused by icy roads or damage from falling trees or branches.
Insurance policies can vary between providers which is why it is important to go back and review your policy and possibly get more coverage so you’re prepared for this winter.
Homeowners Insurance for Winter Protection
Most people’s homes are their most valuable assets, and protecting them from winter weather-related damages should be a top priority for homeowners in Michigan. There are many different ways the cold weather and snow could affect your home:
- Frozen Pipes: If your pipes freeze and burst, causing water damage to your home, homeowners insurance may cover the cost of repairs and any necessary cleanup.
- Ice Dams: The formation of ice dams on your roof can lead to water seeping into your home, potentially causing costly damage. Many homeowner’s policies may cover this type of damage.
- Roof Collapse: The weight of heavy snow or ice accumulation can put immense strain on your roof, potentially leading to a collapse. Homeowners insurance may help cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Auto Insurance for Michigan Winter Driving
Driving on Michigan’s icy roads and through winter conditions can be dangerous for any driver. Auto insurance can provide crucial protection against winter-related incidents:
- Collision Coverage: If you’re involved in an accident caused by slippery roads or poor visibility, collision coverage may help pay for repairs to your vehicle.
- Comprehensive Coverage: This coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision incidents, such as damage from falling tree branches, or hail, which can be more common during winter storms.
- Towing and Roadside Assistance: If your vehicle becomes stranded because of a winter-related breakdown or accident, towing, and roadside assistance coverage is useful to have.
- Rental Car Coverage: If your vehicle is undrivable after an accident or covered incident, rental car coverage can help you get to where you need to be while your car gets fixed.
Coverage for Michigan Winters: E&Y Insurance Agency
While you stock up on winter gear like coats, gloves, shovels, and salt you should also think about protecting your most expensive assets. Damages caused by the harsh winter weather can come with a hefty price tag making it important to look over your insurance coverage with your insurance provider. At E & Y Insurance Agency our agents can help you review your plan and adjust where needed to make sure your coverage is sufficient and you are prepared for anything. Call our office to speak to an agent today at 248.362.1313.
