ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Ice and snow are predicted for this weekend, but thousands of drivers may not have the right insurance coverage to protect them from costly repairs.
Georgia only requires liability insurance. Coverage for damage to your own car is optional, leaving many drivers vulnerable to expensive out-of-pocket costs.
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There are two types of coverage that protect your vehicle: collision and comprehensive. Having one but not the other could mean the difference between being covered or not.
If your car slides on ice and hits a tree, that falls under collision coverage. If an icicle or branch falls on your car, that requires comprehensive coverage.
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Before filing a claim, drivers should check their deductible. If repair costs are less than your deductible, it’s better to pay out of pocket.
Filing a weather-related claim typically won’t raise your premium. However, filing too many claims could result in your insurer dropping you.
Steps to take now
Insurance experts recommend drivers take these precautions:
- Don’t park under trees
- Stay off roads when possible
- Take photos from every angle if damage occurs
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Based in New York, Stephen Freeman is a Senior Editor at Trending Insurance News. Previously he has worked for Forbes and The Huffington Post. Steven is a graduate of Risk Management at the University of New York.