Manitoba’s sudden snowfall raises auto and property insurance concerns

Unexpected weather event could lead to insurance complications, officials have pointed out

Manitoba’s sudden snowfall raises auto and property insurance concerns

Environmental

By Lyle Adriano

Environment Canada has warned that parts of Manitoba could be covered in up to 25cm of snow in the days to come; and the abrupt weather change could force drivers to stick with winter tires for a bit longer.

The real problem, however, is that Manitoba Public Insurance is requiring studded snow tires to be removed from all vehicles in the province by April 30.

Learn more about snow removal insurance here.

Dymamic Auto Services owner Gary Gerbrandt told CTV that because of the snow, six of his customers canceled their appointments to have their snow tires removed.

“If you don’t feel comfortable driving, just wait,” Gerbrandt said. “That’s all, no set time.”

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There has been no word yet on whether the public insurer would extend the deadline for snow tire removal.

The snowfall has also raised concerns about flooding, particularly around the Red River area. Officials have said that the late snowfall could delay water levels from returning to normal. Property owners have been advised to remove their valuables close to shorelines to prevent any damages arising from a sudden downstream flow.


Related stories:
MPI launches VR driving simulator campaign
Water levels of some Manitoba rivers recede, Assiniboine still on the rise

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