[Christien]

Why would the police file charges if the road conditions were that bad? If anything, the Ministry could be on the receiving end of a lawsuit if they weren't diligent in salting.

Not sure how province-run insurance works (though I'm sure it's far less of a racket than private!), but can you argue the payout? With private insurance here, it's a bargain, and the first offer is always that, an offer, though very few people realize this. If you go back to them requesting proof of valuation and provide your own appraisal, you can almost always get them to come up somewhat. I do it all the time through work. In fact, I'm waiting on an appraisal right now where the ins co offered 50% of the payout.