Snow Chain Snafus: Are You Covered By Auto Insurance?

Snow can affect your insurance in a number of ways, and it's important to know how to avoid the worst outcomes. If you're driving in the snow, it's recommended that you keep snow chains in your car for emergencies. However, if you're using a rental car, most companies do not allow the use of snow chains, and doing so may void your insurance. In terms of auto insurance covering snow chain damage, there is a chance that it will be covered, but it depends on the specific circumstances and the insurance company's policies. It's always best to exercise caution and avoid driving in snowy conditions if possible.

Contributory negligence

In the context of auto insurance and snow chain damage, contributory negligence could be a factor if the policyholder was driving with snow chains that were incorrectly installed or not suitable for their vehicle. For example, if the snow chains were purchased from a store and installed by a third party, the policyholder might be found to have contributed to any resulting damage to their vehicle. The store or installer could argue that the policyholder failed to exercise reasonable care for their safety by not verifying the correct installation of the snow chains or ensuring their compatibility with their vehicle.

However, it is important to note that the application of contributory negligence can vary depending on the state and the specific circumstances of the case. Some states have adopted comparative negligence rules, which allow for the assignment of financial responsibility in proportion to each party's level of involvement in causing the incident. In such cases, the degree of negligence of both the plaintiff and the defendant would be considered, and compensation would be awarded accordingly.

To determine the potential impact of contributory negligence in a specific situation, it is advisable to consult with an experienced attorney who can provide guidance based on the specific facts and applicable laws.

Rental car snow chains

If you're renting a car and are concerned about driving in snowy conditions, you may be considering snow chains. However, it's important to note that most rental car companies do not offer snow chains or traction devices as additional equipment. In fact, some companies explicitly prohibit the use of snow chains on their rental vehicles due to concerns about incorrect installation and potential damage to the car. That being said, there may be certain locations or situations where snow chains are required by state or provincial law, and in those cases, the rental company may allow or provide them. For example, in Quebec, cars are equipped with winter tires from December 15 to March 15 as required by law, and in Colorado, snow chains are allowed during Code 15/16 advisories.

So, what are your options if you're planning a trip that involves driving in snowy conditions and you want the added traction and safety of snow chains? Here are some suggestions:

• Check with the rental company about their specific policies on snow chains. While some companies may prohibit them, others may allow them in certain circumstances or recommend alternative solutions like snow socks.
• Consider renting a vehicle with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which can provide better traction in snowy conditions and may reduce the need for snow chains.
• Look into renting a car through a peer-to-peer car-sharing platform like Turo, where you can rent directly from private car owners. This may give you more options for finding a vehicle equipped for snowy conditions, and you might even find a car that comes with snow chains.
• If you decide to bring your own snow chains, make sure you know the correct tire size for the rental car and practice installing them beforehand. Be aware that installing snow chains incorrectly can cause damage to the vehicle, and rental companies may not allow this.
• As an alternative to snow chains, consider using snow socks, which are easier to install and less likely to damage the vehicle. However, they may not be legal in all states as a substitute for snow chains.
• Keep in mind that even with snow chains or an AWD vehicle, there may be areas with chain enforcement where they are still required by law. Always follow the local regulations and be prepared for varying road conditions.

In summary, while rental car companies may have restrictions on the use of snow chains, there are alternative options to consider for safe driving in snowy conditions. These include renting an AWD vehicle, using snow socks, or carefully installing your own snow chains if permitted. Remember to always check local regulations and plan your trip accordingly.

Snow chain installation

Snow chains are a great way to improve handling and control when driving in snowy or icy conditions. They can be intimidating to install, but the basic idea is simple: fit the chains over your tires, drive forward, and tighten them. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install snow chains:

Get the Right Snow Chains:

First, ensure you have the correct size of snow chains for your tires. Check the size measurements on your tires, which you can find along the outside edge. The first number indicates tire width, the second is the tire height ratio, and the third is the wheel diameter. Get snow chains that match these measurements.

Prepare the Chains:

Take the chains out of their packaging and untangle the links. This process can take some time, so it's best to do this before you need the chains. Lay the chains on the ground next to the tires you'll be installing them on.

Fit the Chains:

Place your car in park and engage the parking brake. Fit the chains over the top of the tire, ensuring they cover about three-quarters of it. Tuck the chains between the bottom of the tire and the ground to hold them in place when you drive forward.

Drive Forward:

Check your surroundings, disengage the parking brake, and drive forward slightly to expose the unfitted portion of the tire. Only drive forward a little, as only a small portion of the tire is unfitted.

Turn the Wheel:

Turn the wheel toward the inside of the vehicle to make it easier to access the connections and finish securing the chains. If installing on the left tire, turn the wheel to the right, and vice versa. Re-engage the parking brake.

Connect the Chains:

Connect the chains together to cover the remaining portion of the tire. Connect the hooked edges on the inner and outer parts of the tire, then tighten the chains with a link-tightening tool or a built-in tightening cam.

Align the Chains:

Check that the chains are mostly straight across the width of the tire. Adjust and re-tighten if necessary.

Repeat for Other Tires:

Repeat the above steps for the other tire(s) on your vehicle. Once you have some experience, you can install chains on multiple tires simultaneously to speed up the process.

Drive and Re-tighten:

Drive about 100 feet and then re-tighten the chains, as they will shift a bit during driving.

Remember to remove your snow chains as soon as you reach clear road or driving conditions improve. Also, be aware of speed restrictions when driving with snow chains, as you should not exceed certain speeds (usually 25 mph or 30-35 mph).

Snow chain speed limits

Snow chains are intended to withstand specific conditions and driving speeds. Exceeding speed limits can cause the chains to break while in motion, posing a danger to both the driver and the vehicle. The recommended speed limit for driving with snow chains is between 20 and 30 mph.

It is important to note that driving faster than the recommended speed limit when using snow chains can lead to several issues. Firstly, there is a risk of snapping or breaking the chains due to the increased speed and friction. This can result in damage to the tires, rims, or other components of the vehicle. Secondly, driving above the speed limit can compromise the effectiveness of the snow chains in providing traction and control on snowy or icy roads, increasing the risk of accidents.

When driving with snow chains, it is crucial to maintain a safe speed to ensure the optimal performance of the chains and the safety of all road users. In addition to speed limits, it is also essential to consider other factors such as road conditions, weather, and local regulations.

In California, for example, the speed limit when chains are required is 25 or 30 miles per hour. It is mandatory to stop and put on chains when highway signs indicate such a requirement. Non-compliance can result in fines and citations from the California Highway Patrol.

To summarize, adhering to the speed limit when using snow chains is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the chains, ensuring optimal vehicle performance, and, most importantly, safeguarding the well-being of the driver and other road users.

Snow chains and insurance fraud

Snow chains are an inexpensive solution to help you drive safely and avoid accidents in snowy or icy conditions. They are effective on all types of vehicles and winter road conditions. However, if these snow chains are faulty or improperly installed, they can cause accidents.

If you have comprehensive car insurance, it may cover damage caused by snow chains. However, this depends on the specific circumstances and policies. In some cases, you may need to pay a deductible, but it will still be less than repairing the damage yourself. If your insurance company determines that a third party, such as the retailer or installer, is at fault, they may go after them for the money and reimburse your deductible.

In the case of snow chain failure or improper installation resulting in an accident, there are several parties who may be held liable, including the snow chain manufacturer, retailer, or installer. If the snow chains are faulty, the manufacturer may be responsible as they have an obligation to ensure their products are defect-free and safe for use. If a retailer provides incorrect information about the size or suitability of snow chains for your vehicle, they may be held liable for any accidents caused. Similarly, if an installer fails to properly install the snow chains on the correct set of wheels and they malfunction, the installer may be held liable for any resulting accidents.

To avoid insurance fraud when using snow chains, it is important to follow the recommended usage guidelines. Snow chains should be used at speeds no greater than 30 mph, as driving faster can damage the chains and cause them to fail. They should also be removed before driving on asphalt to avoid breakage. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that the snow chains are the correct size for your tires and that they are properly installed, with all connections securely fastened. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that any damage or accidents caused by snow chains are not the result of misuse or negligence on your part.

Frequently asked questions