Car Insurance and Winter Driving

Last winter's low temperatures and record snowfalls affected almost the whole country; it was the most widespread and prolonged spell of snow across the UK since December 1981 to January 1982. If last year is anything to go by, it's unlikely that you'll be spared this winter from the problem of ice on your windscreen.

There is something especially depressing about stepping out of the house in the morning to find that the air is still below freezing. This is only made worse by the realisation that you have to clear ice from your windscreen. If you've ever stood clutching a credit card and desperately scraping at a shower of frosty flakes whilst thinking, ‘there must be an easier way,' you're not alone. So here are some suggestions to make things a little easier:

You could put a sheet of cardboard under your windscreen wipers. In the morning you should be able to throw the stiff card in the boot and drive off with a clear view. Another option is to get a bucket of warm water and pour it over your windscreen. However, we wouldn't recommend this as if the water is boiling there may be some risk of the glass cracking.

If your windscreen does break, your car insurance may cover the cost. In some instances your insurance provider may even pay for any repair to the bodywork that has been damaged by broken glass from the windscreen or windows.

If you know there is going to be a frost, you could apply anti-freeze to your windscreen the night before. However it is worth bearing in mind that some anti-freezes can damage paintwork.

At the end of the day, a good old-fashioned scraper may be the best tool for the job, just be sure to clear the ice properly. In the early hours of the morning, some people drive around peering through a post box sized hole they've scratched out of the ice. The chances of having a road accident increase dramatically when vision is limited and it's also potentially an endorsable offence.

If you are involved in a road traffic accident, now or at any other time of year, reputable car insurance should be able to help with the costs. In any case, a clear windscreen should help to make driving safer. You could even find yourself enjoying the crisp, quiet mornings.