Auto Insurance

Consumer Tips: What About Car Insurance?

Consumer Tips: What About Car
Insurance
?


All owners are required by law to insure vehicles driven on public roads.
Some provinces and territories offer public insurance while others have
insurance sold privately. Here are some basic items to consider when buying
vehicle insurance:




  • Liability insurance is mandatory, and is used as financial protection
    against loss or injury caused to others while operating your vehicle. The
    minimum amount of insurance required differs across jurisdictions but keep in
    mind that skimping on liability insurance may cost you in the long run. Minimum
    liability will not cover the cost of an accident resulting in the injury of
    several people, for example, particularly in circumstances where litigation is
    an option.



  • Vehicle damage insurance, unlike liability insurance, may be optional.
    Damage insurance, however, is still recommended for the simple reason that
    damages to a vehicle will quickly add up in the event of an accident where you
    are at fault. Not being able to recover any money will have serious
    ramifications on your bank account.



  • Some dealers or credit grantors may require that you take out other
    insurance such as life and/or disability insurance prior to agreeing to do
    business with you. Make sure that you fully read and understand any agreements
    that you are asked to sign and that you get a copy of the completed and signed
    agreement. Do not sign an agreement unless it is completed in full.


You should also do some comparison shopping on insurance prices and coverage
prior to signing any agreement. Here are some items to consider in keeping your
Car Insurance rates to a
minimum:




  • Accidents can increase your insurance costs, especially when you are at
    fault. Though it's easier said than done, staying out of accidents will save you
    money in more ways than one.



  • Statistics show that some vehicles are more likely than others to be
    involved in an accident. Insurance companies are aware of this and therefore
    charge more to insure high-risk vehicles. The make and model of the vehicle, its
    colour, and whether it's a two-door or four-door are all factors considered by
    your insurance company. Some cars are also more expensive to repair or are
    frequently pursued by thieves. Consider how important owning a high-profile
    vehicle is to you. Contact the Vehicle Information Centre of Canada
    (www.vicc.com) to find out which vehicles will cost you more to insure.



  • Where you live may affect what you pay for automobile insurance. Driving to
    work everyday, especially if it's a long commute, does not only mean extra gas
    and wear and tear on your vehicle but also the possibility of a higher insurance
    premium. Urban residents may have higher premiums than those living in rural
    areas.



  • Insurance companies reward those who are of low risk to them. Discounts
    might be offered for driver education, multiple vehicles, high academic
    achievement, anti-theft devices or abstinence from alcohol, among others. Have
    your insurance broker inquire about any of these types of discounts.


Sometimes it doesn't pay to be carrying collision or comprehensive insurance
on an older vehicle if the total amount you are paying for the deductible plus
the monthly premium is more then the entire worth of your vehicle.