2. Introduction
Auto insurance can be
complicated at times but is
important to understand as
the law requires that all
motorists have insurance.
Being knowledgeable about
the various elements of car
insurance will help you to
select the best coverage to
meet your needs.
3. 1) Where can car insurance
be purchased?
Car insurance can be purchased from the following:
1) Insurance broker – represents various insurance
companies
2) Insurance agent – typically sells insurance on the
behalf of a single company
3) Direct writer – an insurance company which sells
directly to consumers
*Ensure that your chosen option is licensed to do business in Ontario.
4. 2) What information do I
need to provide?
To purchase car insurance, you
must provide information about:
*Honesty is important and
updates must be made if
circumstances change.
*Non-disclosure or
misrepresentation may result
in increased rates or render
your policy null and void.
• Self
• Your vehicle
• Your driving record
• Your broker, agent or
insurance company
• Any other drivers
5. 3) What does basic car
insurance include?
The law in Ontario requires all motorists to have
basic insurance at the very least. This includes:
1) Third-Party Liability Coverage – protects you in the event
that someone is injured/killed or property is damaged and
you are at fault. Claims are paid up to the limit of your
coverage.
2) Statutory Accident Benefits Coverage – this includes
benefits like medical, rehabilitation, caregiver and income
replacement benefits if someone is injured; benefits are
received no matter who was at fault.
6. 3) What does basic car
insurance include?
3) Direct Compensation – Property Damage Coverage: although
the other person is at fault for damage or loss of use of your
vehicle or its contents, you collect from your own insurer.
4) Uninsured Automobile Coverage: you and your family are
protected if you are injured/killed by an uninsured or hit-and-run
driver. Vehicle damage by uninsured motorists is also covered.
7. 4) How can I increase
my coverage?
1) Specified Perils Coverage – covers damage from perils
such as fire, theft, natural elements (lightning,
windstorm, hail, rising water, earthquake), explosion,
riot, stranding, sinking, burning.
2) Collision or Upset Coverage – covers damage from
colliding with another object or if your vehicle rolls over.
You can increase coverage by purchasing higher liability
limits under the Third-Party Liability coverage or by
purchasing increased benefits in the Accident Benefits
coverage. Furthermore, you can buy extra coverage for
the loss/damage of your vehicle, which includes:
8. 4) How can I increase
my coverage?
3) Comprehensive Coverage – covers damage other than what was
covered by Collision or Upset Coverage and includes perils listed in
Specified Perils Coverage plus falling/flying objects, missiles and
vandalism.
4) All Perils Coverage – a combination of Collision or Upset Coverage
and Comprehensive Coverage but additionally includes coverage for
loss/damage of your vehicle if an individual who lives at home steals it
or if stolen by an employee who drives, uses, services or repairs your
vehicle.
9. Conclusion
Understanding the basics of
car insurance can help you
make a more informed
decision about what coverage
suits your needs and know
what is involved in the process
of purchasing auto insurance.