As a Colorado driver, you know there's a lot that can happen on the road. All kinds of wildlife and even Mother Nature can create surprises that may lead to accidents. It's these moments that you're glad you have your Colorado auto insurance. A mishap with a moose or a skid in the snow can cause severe damage, which can lead to a very pricey claim. There are ways to avoid this cost and keep you safe while driving in the wilds of Colorado.

Motoring with moose (or other large animals).
In Colorado, it's not only other motorists that you have to share the road with. In certain areas, you need to look out for wildlife. Large animals such as moose or deer can do serious damage to you and your car. They tend to be near roads for several reasons: they like to feed on the roadside vegetation or salt from winter de-icings, or to escape the deep snow by traveling in the open, clear roadways.

A collision can result in an auto insurance claim that could cost thousands of dollars to repair. So how can you avoid such encounters? There are a few quick tips to remember that may help you avoid a run-in with Bullwinkle or his friends:

• Drive with caution at dusk and dawn. At these times, deer and moose are at their most active and it's harder to see them.
• Don't assume they'll avoid you. If you see a large animal, reduce your speed. These large creatures have been known to dart out into the road, in front of your car at the last minute. At a lower speed, you will be able to avoid this sudden movement.
• If you see one, there may be more. Calves often follow their parents so if one crosses the road, it's likely that another will be close behind. Make sure the parade is over before proceeding.

Ready for weather?
Although the seasons can tell you, to a certain point, when certain weather conditions are on their way, you never know when a sudden storm could leave you stranded in your car. It's a good idea to prepare your car and your auto insurance for certain weather trends that happen in Colorado.

• Snow - Driving in snow takes some technique and a lot of patience. But the best way to get through a snow drive safely is to prepare your car. Before you drive around in severe weather, you should check that your engine, battery, brakes, tires, and visibility systems are all in proper working order. All these can be affected by the cold weather and snow and, if neglected, can lead to accidents.
  
  Make sure you put together a winter car kit, in case you are ever stranded in a storm. This kit should contain: sand for traction, a small shovel for clearing snow, tire chains, a flashlight with fresh batteries, warm blankets or sleeping bag, and non-perishable food items.



• Rain - While rain can make it hard to drive, causing all sorts of accidents that can lead to expensive auto insurance claims, it can also lead to floods. However, being stuck in a flood can be avoided. If you live in an area near a river or lake that is prone to flooding, make sure you listen to weather reports about flood possibilities before you head out in your car. Waters can rise very rapidly, and can trap you even when you think you have enough time to get out. Don't risk it.
  
  Whether substantial or less severe flood situations, your car may experience damage of some sort and you'll need to file an auto insurance claim. Contact your auto insurance company to report your claim before you go ahead with any repairs. Even if your car looks fine, floodwaters can damage a car's engine as well as its braking, steering, and transmission systems. Subsequently, your car shouldn't be started until a qualified mechanic has inspected it.

If you ever do need to file an auto insurance claim with Esurance, you can be sure it will be handled quickly and fairly and we'll get you back on the road fast! You can call our auto insurance claims center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Start experiencing quality service and great rates on Colorado auto insurance by getting a quote from Esurance today!