If you’re planning to own and drive a vehicle in Canada, it’s important to have car insurance. In fact, it’s a legal requirement. Having car insurance in place is necessary to comply with the law.
However, before acquiring one, you should be aware that car insurance rules can vary depending on your province and the insurance provider you choose. Each province has its own set of regulations for obtaining car insurance in Canada. Despite these differences, the process of purchasing car insurance and the information you must provide to your insurance company is generally the same, regardless of where you live.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to get car insurance in Canada. Whether you’re a Canadian resident or a newcomer, we’ll also share helpful tips on finding affordable coverage. Keep reading to get all the details you need.
How To Get Car Insurance: 5 Easy Steps
Before purchasing your car, you’ve likely spent a significant amount of time comparing options to find the best ride for your needs at a fair price. Buying car insurance should follow a similar approach. Unfortunately, many car owners skip this crucial step and end up spending more money than necessary.
To help you find the best car insurance at a reasonable price, here’s a simple guide.
1. Gather Your Driver and Vehicle Information
To kickstart your car insurance shopping journey, collect the following information:
- Basic details like your name, address, and date of birth for all drivers on the policy.
- Driver’s license information for each driver, including the number of years they’ve been licensed.
- Vehicle information, including year, make, model, and the vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Driving habits, such as one-way distance to work and annual mileage.
- Driving history for all drivers, covering at-fault accidents, traffic violations, claims, and completed safe-driving courses.
- Details of your current insurer (if applicable), including current coverage limits.
2. Determine How Much Car Insurance You Need
Before purchasing a car insurance policy, the first step is to figure out how much coverage you require. Buying too little coverage can leave you underinsured, while buying too much results in overpaying. Consider the following coverage types:
- Third-Party Liability Car Insurance: Mandatory across Canada, it pays for property damage and injuries to others in case of an accident. Each province has its own minimum requirement.
- Accident Benefits: Covers medical costs, rehabilitation expenses, and financial compensation for injuries, regardless of fault.
- Direct Compensation-Property Damage (DCPD): Covers damage to your vehicle when another driver is at fault.
- Uninsured Automobile Coverage: Protects you from injuries or damages caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.
- Collision and/or Comprehensive Insurance: Optional coverage for car repair bills and other incidents like theft or natural disasters.
Consider additional coverage types, known as endorsements, for extra protection.
3. Compare Car Insurance Quotes
After determining your coverage needs, compare quotes from multiple insurance companies. Rates can vary significantly, so obtaining at least three quotes is recommended. You can get quotes online, through an insurance agent, or from an insurance broker representing various companies.
4. Buy Your Car Insurance Insurance Policy
Once you’ve identified the preferred company and policy, complete an auto insurance application. Some insurers may offer discounts for upfront payment, and you can usually choose between monthly instalments. The insurance company will send proof of insurance via email or mail. Ensure you have proof of insurance before registering a new or used car.
5. Cancel Your Old Coverage
If you already had insurance on your previous car, make sure your new coverage is active before cancelling the old policy. Confirm the cancellation and be cautious about any gaps in coverage, as driving uninsured can have legal and financial consequences.
10 Tips on How To Get Cheap Car Insurance in Canada
Getting an affordable car insurance policy in Canada can be daunting, but with the right tips, you can secure coverage that not only fits your needs but also saves you money.
Whether you’re a seasoned or new driver, these practical suggestions will help you make informed decisions and potentially reduce your insurance costs.
1. Shop Rround And Compare Rates
For those residing in provinces like BC, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, public insurance providers are the sole options. However, if you’re in provinces with high competition, such as Ontario or Alberta, exploring different providers becomes crucial. Utilize comparison sites and online reviews to identify the best auto insurance rates available.
2. Get The Coverage You Actually Need
Regularly review your policy to ensure it aligns with your car’s age, location, and driving habits. For instance, reassess whether collision coverage remains economically sensible as your car ages. Buying coverage that suits your current needs helps prevent overpaying for unnecessary protection.
3. Buy A Used Car
Higher replacement costs for a car result in higher insurance premiums. Opting for a used vehicle, especially through online platforms like Canada Drives, can save you money and eliminate hidden dealer fees.
4. Drive Safe
Enhancing road safety features like snow tires and driver assist technology can lead to insurance discounts. Understand the safety-related discounts available in your province and inquire about the options that can lower your premium.
5. A Clean Record
Maintaining a clean driving record is key to obtaining discounts from both public and private insurance providers. Traffic tickets, demerit points, and collisions negatively impact your coverage rates, making a clean record valuable.
6. Your Car’s Safety Rating
Vehicles with excellent crash test ratings, low theft scores, and less attention-grabbing features generally have lower insurance rates. Consider whether the thrill of driving a luxury sports car outweighs the potential higher premium costs.
7. Bundle Policies Together
Bundling insurance services, including renters, homeowner, boat, RV, or motorcycle insurance, can lead to substantial discounts. Besides cost savings, bundling offers the convenience of dealing with a single provider and a unified renewal process.
8. Consider A Higher Deductible
If you’re comfortable with a higher out-of-pocket cost in case of an accident, opting for a higher deductible can significantly reduce your premiums. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the deductible is reasonable compared to your vehicle’s value.
9. Uninterrupted History
Maintain consistency in your driving history to demonstrate reliability to insurers. If you don’t currently own a car, consider being added as a secondary driver to a family or trusted friend member’s policy to avoid gaps in your driving record.
10. Pay Your Premium All At Once
Some insurance companies offer discounts if you pay your premium in a lump sum at renewal. This not only provides cost savings but also eliminates the risk of missing monthly payments and incurring additional fees or policy cancellations.
How to Get Car Insurance for Newcomers, Immigrants and International Students
Navigating the process of getting car insurance as a newcomer, immigrant, or international student can be daunting. With numerous insurance companies, different coverage types, and the need to comprehend the intricacies of car insurance in Canada, it can quickly become overwhelming. However, finding a provider that caters to your unique needs and offers affordable rates is achievable with the right approach. Here’s our guide to help you secure auto coverage as an international student in Canada:
- Familiarize Yourself with the Canadian Car Insurance System: Understanding how car insurance works in Canada is crucial. Familiarize yourself with the basics of the system, including terms, regulations, and common practices.
- Learn the Requirements for Car Insurance in Canada: Each province in Canada has specific requirements for car insurance. Research and learn about the mandatory coverage and any additional options available. This knowledge will serve as a foundation for your insurance decisions.
- Find an Insurance Provider and Get Insurance Quotes: Explore various insurance providers that cater to newcomers, immigrants, and international students. Use online tools, comparison websites, and customer reviews to gather insurance quotes. Look for providers that offer competitive rates and understand the unique circumstances of newcomers.
- Gather Your Documents Needed for Car Insurance: Different insurance companies may require various documents for verification. Collect essential documents such as your driver’s license, proof of residence, and any relevant immigration documents. Having these ready will expedite the application process.
- Determine the Type and Amount of Coverage You Need: Assess your specific needs and determine the type and amount of coverage required. Consider factors like the value of your car, your driving habits, and any additional coverage you might need beyond the mandatory requirements.
- Buy Your Car Insurance Coverage: Once you’ve selected a suitable insurance provider and decided on the coverage, proceed to purchase your car insurance. Review the terms of the policy, understand the payment schedule, and ensure that you are adequately covered for your circumstances.
How to Get Car Insurance Online in Canada
Securing car insurance online in Canada, whether through a private or public system, involves three primary methods:
- Directly through a Bank or Credit Union: Banks and credit unions offer insurance products that may be backed by international insurance providers (e.g., Aviva underwrites RBC insurance). You can purchase insurance directly through a financial institution.
- Insurance Companies Selling Directly: Some insurance companies sell their products directly to consumers without intermediaries. This method allows you to buy insurance directly from the company offering the coverage.
- Independent Insurance Brokerages: Independent insurance brokerages represent multiple insurance companies. You can obtain insurance through a licensed broker who operates independently from a specific bank or credit union.
When purchasing car insurance, you’ll work with one of three professionals:
- Direct Writer: Affiliated with a single bank, credit union, or brokerage, a direct writer exclusively sells the products of the entity they represent.
- Insurance Agent: While working independently, an insurance agent usually represents only one insurance company.
- Licensed Insurance Broker: Operating independently from a specific financial institution, a licensed insurance broker represents multiple insurance companies, similar to how mortgage brokers operate in Canada.
RECOMMENDED READINGS:
- How Much Is Car Insurance In Canada? (2024)
- How Much Is Car Insurance in Alberta (2024)
- How Much is Car Insurance in Ontario? (2024)
- How Much Is Car Insurance in BC (2024)
Best Car Insurance Providers in Canada
When it comes to finding the best car insurance in Canada, it’s essential to consider reputable providers offering comprehensive coverage and exceptional service. Here’s a closer look at some of the top choices:
- CAA Insurance: CAA Insurance, affiliated with the Canadian Automobile Association, is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction. They provide a range of coverage options tailored to meet the diverse needs of Canadian drivers.
- Intact Insurance: As one of the largest providers in the country, Intact Insurance stands out for its comprehensive coverage and flexibility. With a strong reputation for financial stability, Intact is a trusted choice for reliable car insurance.
- Aviva Canada: Aviva Canada is recognized for its innovative approach to insurance. Backed by a global network, Aviva offers a variety of coverage solutions, focusing on customer convenience and cutting-edge digital services.
- Economical Insurance: Economical Insurance, a well-established provider, is known for its affordable and flexible car insurance options. With a customer-centric approach, Economical aims to provide comprehensive coverage while prioritizing affordability.
- Travelers Canada: Travelers Canada is a reliable choice for those seeking specialized coverage and personalized service. With a focus on understanding individual needs, Travelers offers a range of insurance products to ensure customers find coverage that suits their unique requirements.
Final Thoughts on How to Get Car Insurance in Canada
Securing car insurance in Canada is a straightforward yet crucial process. By understanding the key factors that influence your premiums, comparing quotes from reputable providers, and staying informed about the specific requirements in your province, you can make informed decisions to get the best coverage for your needs.
With a proactive approach and a clear understanding of the Canadian insurance landscape, you can confidently navigate the process and ensure both legal compliance and financial protection on the road. Drive safely, stay informed, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-chosen car insurance policy in Canada.
