The chance of encountering a roadside hazard rises by about 1.5 times after snowfall. This finding is reported by Izvestia, citing Sergei Demidov, the vice president of auto insurance at Renaissance Insurance.
The expert notes that the danger to drivers peaks in snowy conditions, with the risk nearly 1.5 times higher than usual. Ice blocks hidden under the snow, obstacles that interfere with parking, and slick pavements are among the main threats identified.
Demidov explains that slowing down and driving more cautiously during snowfall does not guarantee a smaller damage bill. In fact, the average compensation remains about 4% lower than the typical winter level, indicating only a modest improvement even with prudent driving. A common snowfall-related accident—damage from stones kicked up by wheels—becomes less likely, with its share dropping by roughly a third, likely due to lower speeds on wintry roads.
Historically, it has been advised that vehicles should be washed at least weekly in winter to mitigate the adverse effects of road de-icers. Leaving water on a frozen surface alongside vehicle components can be problematic in severe frosts, so careful timing of washes is important to avoid harm to the finish.
Changing weather conditions, currently driven by thawing conditions, do not necessitate extra precautions for car owners because modern vehicles have sturdy protection against moisture ingress. Routine maintenance and standard winter care remain sufficient to keep bodies intact during these transitions.
Earlier projections suggested that automobile imports from Europe and Japan could be reduced by about half in 2024, reflecting shifts in global supply and demand dynamics. This trend underscores the broader context in which winter driving challenges intersect with industry changes and consumer readiness to adapt to evolving market conditions. [Citations: Izvestia excerpt via Renaissance Insurance official statements]