ICBC claims jump after B.C. snowstorms, insurer says
Posted January 24, 2022 6:15 am.
Last Updated January 24, 2022 6:17 am.
It appears all the snow and ice that brought many parts of the Lower Mainland to a standstill and wreaked havoc on local roadways translated into a big jump in ICBC claims.
The public insurer says the snow that dumped down just before and after the New Year led to a number of crashes and other incidents.
“On December 30th last year, we received 1,700 claims, compared to 1,300 claims on that date in 2020 — so an increase of 28 per cent,” said Alex Lee, a road safety program manager at ICBC.
Meanwhile, the following storm on Jan. 6 resulted in about 30 per cent more claims than the same day last year.
“We received 1,600 claims compared to 1,200 claims in 2021,” added Lee.
Winter storm warning for the Lower Mainland.10-20 cm expected mainly this evening and overnight. Turns to rain later Thursday morning with a stretch of freezing rain for eastern parts of the area. #BCstorm #Winter #Snow @CityNewsVAN pic.twitter.com/pIY4vpLXNN
— Michael Kuss (@Kusswx) January 5, 2022
Looking ahead, Lee says many drivers might want to keep a few things in mind for the next stow event. Planning tips include making sure you have the right tires on for the weather, clear snow from your windshield, headlights, wheel wells, and any sensors — for things like collision warning systems. You’re also urged to slow down and drive to conditions.
If you’re able to, ICBC recommends making alternate travel plans, such as taking public transit, taking a cab or using a ride-hailing service, or working from home, when severe weather hits.
The storm that hit just before the New Year created a real mess of roadways across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Many municipalities told CityNews they were caught off guard by the amount of snow that fell in a short period of time.
Upwards of 25 centimetres of snow fell in some parts.
On Jan. 6, the storm prompted warnings for highways and bridges. The Port Mann and Alex Fraser bridges were closed for some time, both due to wintery conditions.
