Can you drive your car on the road with code orange or red?
KNMI color codes are used in the Netherlands for extreme weather. These include storms, ice, heavy gusts of wind or poor visibility due to fog. These codes help you determine whether it is safe to drive. Code red even advises against driving. But what does this mean for your car insurance if you go anyway?
What do the codes mean?
Code Yellow - Be alert
Weather conditions may cause additional danger in traffic. You are urged to pay close attention and also adjust your speed to the conditions.
Code orange - be prepared
There is a high probability of danger from extreme weather. Are you going on the road anyway? Then be prepared for severe conditions.
Code Red - Weather Alert
Extreme weather is having a major impact on society. Basically, the message is: don't go on the road. Even with a small chance of very severe weather, the code can be issued. KNMI does this when the safety risks are high if it does occur.
Are you insured at code red?
The answer is yes: you are insured even during code red. If you adjust your driving behavior and speed during dangerous weather, the insurer will simply pay out the same amount as normal in the event of damage, even if a warning is active. The policy conditions of a car insurance policy also do not state that your car is not insured during code red. This is different from a negative travel advisory for a country abroad: if you go there anyway, the travel insurance will not provide coverage. At code red in the Netherlands, the car insurance does pay out as usual.
Reckless driving
It is sometimes said that motorists who do hit the road during code red are more likely to be guilty of reckless driving. This is seen as irresponsible and dangerous driving that increases the risk of damage. Damage caused by reckless driving is excluded by insurers. But code red does not automatically lead to reckless driving. Each situation is assessed individually.
Tips if you do hit the road
Need to drive despite code orange or red? Then adjust your driving style:
- Be extra alert and look far ahead.
- Pull up slowly and brake gently.
- Keep an adequate distance.
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