Claims increase almost 40% in winter weather: Aviva Canada

Aviva Canada sees an average increase of more than 38% in claims during the winter months compared to the rest of the year.
A result of weather-related incidents, slippery roadways and white-out conditions accounted for more than Cdn$38.5 million in auto-collision claim payments for Aviva Canada between December 2007 and February 2008.
The first snowfall of the year generally accounts for the highest instance of collisions, according to the insurer.
Results also show that of those insured, an average of 5.6% file claims in winter compared to 4.1% filing claims during the rest of the year.
“While Canadians are traditionally very experienced winter drivers, the first snowfall of the year can be extremely challenging even for the most apt motorist,” said Jim Haskins, executive vice president of claims and procurement at Aviva Canada. “Icy road conditions result in vehicle sliding and skidding, which are the most common cause of collisions particularly at the start of the season.”