Rain, wind and mountain snow on the way: Are you prepared and insured?

Heavy rains, high winds and mountain snow are forecast for the Pacific Northwest this week. It’s also the time of year when drivers face a greater chance of collisions with deer and other wildlife. The combination of severe weather and wildlife darting across roadways can be lethal and puts homes, businesses and vehicles at risk of serious damage if you’re not prepared.

“When storms are forecast to hit the region, it’s important to take steps to keep people and property safe,” said Kenton Brine, NW Insurance Council president. “It’s also important to understand what is and isn’t covered under your Homeowners, Renters, Auto and Business Owners insurance policies.”

The NW Insurance Council offers the following safety and insurance tips:

Winter Driving

• The safest approach is to stay off the roads during a winter storm warning.
• Before your trip know the current road conditions and the forecast for your route. Make sure you have a full tank of gas before you leave.
• Bring a cellphone so those waiting for you can get in touch, or you can notify them if you are running late. Avoid the temptation of using your phone while driving, pull over to a safe spot first.
• If you’re crossing the mountains, take chains or other traction devices. Slow down and leave more distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
• Always keep an emergency driving kit in your car that includes blankets, water and high-energy snacks. 
• If an auto accident occurs, call for medical assistance immediately if anyone is injured and call the police or highway patrol and wait for them at the accident scene.
• Keep your insurance company’s claims reporting number in your wallet or purse and always carry your vehicle registration and insurance card.
• Store a notebook and pen in the car to help you record important information about an accident, including the other driver’s insurance policy number, contact information and driver’s and vehicle license numbers.

Deer-Vehicle Collisions

• More than 1.5 million deer-vehicle collisions occur each year, resulting in 150 occupant deaths, tens of thousands of injuries and more than $1 billion in vehicle damage, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
• Your Auto Insurance policy will pay for damage to your vehicle, less the deductible, if you hit a deer or any other animal if you have optional Comprehensive Coverage.
• Be attentive from sunset to midnight and the hours just before and after sunrise. These are the highest-risk periods for deer-vehicle collisions.
• Drive with caution when driving through deer-crossing zones and areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland.
• Deer seldom run alone. If you see one deer, others may be nearby.
• When driving at night, use high-beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic.
• Brake firmly when you notice a deer in or near your path and stay in your lane. Many serious crashes occur when drivers swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or lose control of their car.
• Always wear your seatbelt.

Flood, Mudflow & Landslide Coverage

• Heavy rain often causes flooding and can trigger landslides. Damage from flooding, mudflow and landslide is specifically excluded from standard Homeowners and Business insurance policies.
• Coverage for flooding and mudflow is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts.
• For landslides, property owners can purchase a Difference in Conditions Policy through a broker or specialty carrier. Your Homeowners or Business insurance agent may be able to help you obtain coverage for both flooding and landslides.

Coverage for Wind Damage

• Standard Homeowners, Renters and Business Insurance policies cover wind damage to the structure of your home or business and your belongings.
• These policies typically cover damage to your buildings from falling trees, removal of trees that have fallen on buildings and damaged property inside a damaged building.
• Wind damage to vehicles from falling trees or other wind-driven objects is covered if you have chosen optional Comprehensive Coverage in your Auto Policy.

For more information, contact the NW Insurance Council at (800) 664-4942.