Both here and in Norway, drivers had a tough start to the first week of the new year with a lot of snow. One feature in particular is dangerous on slippery roads.
The snow is falling and the risk of accidents is increasing. Insurance companies are preparing for a wave of claims after the snow hit Denmark and southern Norway.
Even though the weather forecast has been clear, unfortunately, we often experience an increase in accidents when the weather changes.
Therese Hofstad-Nielsen, injury prevention specialist at Fremtind, warns against a specific function in newer cars; the adaptive cruise control.
"Many cars have adaptive cruise control, which maintains a steady speed," she explains. "But in snowy weather, the system doesn't take into account the extended braking distance. This can create dangerous situations."
Fremtind has extensive experience with car damage. In 2024, they handled 83,200 cases and paid out compensation of over 3 billion Norwegian kroner.
Hofstad-Nielsen urges drivers to be careful and adjust their speed to the conditions, especially when it is snowing.
– Even though the cars have advanced systems, the driver is still responsible.
– You should never blindly trust technology, she emphasizes.
The insurance company is particularly warning owners of electric cars. The increased weight in electric cars can affect braking distance, especially on slippery roads.
Modern cars are complex, and repairs can be expensive. According to Roger Ytre-Hauge, head of insurance at Frende Forsikring, the cost of car damage has increased by 26 percent in the past year.
– Damage that cost 10,000 kroner to repair ten years ago can cost up to 100,000 kroner today, he says.
Many accidents in a short period of time can mean longer wait times for repairs and increasing insurance premiums.
"Be prepared that it may take time to get your car repaired," says Hofstad-Nielsen.
Remember to drive carefully, keep a good distance and be aware of changes in road grip when the snow falls. In some places, however, drivers can escape responsibility if/when an accident occurs. Mercedes has promised to take the blame – read more about it here .
