Experts confirm that driving under weather warnings does not invalidate your car insurance

As the winter season approaches, many Irish drivers are concerned that snow-ice weather warnings could invalidate their car insurance. These weather warnings usually fit into three categories: yellow, orange, and red warnings.

Meteorologist Siobhán Ryan explains that “a status yellow weather alert is given to warn those at risk from certain weather because of their location and/or their activity. It advises these people to take preventative action.”

Ryan also explains that “a status orange weather warning is given before expected weather conditions that could significantly impact people, property and activity in an area. People in the affected areas should prepare appropriately now for the anticipated conditions.

A status red severe weather warning is rarely issued but when it is, people in the areas expected to be affected should take action to protect themselves and/or their properties.”

While Irish citizens should drive cautiously and follow safety warnings, driving under a yellow, orange, or red weather warning does not invalidate their car insurance. An AA spokesman dispelled this myth by saying “It’s total nonsense to say you would not be covered during a red weather warning. We urge common sense, no one wants to be stuck in these conditions and it may be that instead of visiting relatives and plan to go home, postponing going home might be more sensible.”

Many Irish insurance companies have confirmed that their comprehensive insurance would, in fact, cover any damage caused to a person’s vehicle during a storm. A statement from Direct Line insurance said on Twitter, “We’re aware of a fake news story being shared on Twitter. We would like to assure all of our customers that they are covered by their insurance policy during red and amber alerts. People should be careful when the weather is so extreme and only drive if really necessary.” Avia insurance mirrored this statement by also saying “Your insurance will be valid in a red alert, please follow the advice of the emergency services and travel only if it’s necessary. Take care and keep warm.”

Drivers who take the necessary precautions to drive safely during a severe weather warning will be covered by their insurance. However, an AA spokesman did state that that "If you were to do something reckless, like drive at speed on treacherous roads, and that led to an accident that would be taken into account. However, to say that people on the road currently in the red warning should somehow pull over and not drive, is silly.”

It is important to avoid speeding or driving recklessly during weather warnings as it can often lead to an accident. In a statement, Chief Superintendent Finbarr Murphy said: "I would appeal to road users to slow down, drive at the right speed for the conditions and watch out for vulnerable road users.” The best thing to do in extremely bad weather is to stay off the road and take heed of warnings not to go out.

If you must drive, slow down, use gentle maneuvers when driving, clear your entire windscreen of ice and snow, stick to main roads, and clear any snow off the roof of your car. Remember that stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice and snow compared to normal driving conditions.