Auto Insurance – Ontario
For many, their vehicle isn’t just how they get around – it’s what they trust to get their families from point A to B, to get them to work on time every day, and an extension of themselves. That’s why it’s important to keep your car and the people who ride in it safe with a comprehensive auto insurance policy in Ontario. But what does that entail?
Westland Insurance is here to help you create the perfect auto insurance policy – from provincially mandated coverages to optional endorsements and increased policy limits, we’ll guide you through every step to ensure you have the coverage you need.
Get InsuranceWhat is Ontario car insurance?
Auto insurance in Ontario is required to legally drive in the province. Provided through private companies, drivers have many options when it comes to shopping for auto insurance in Ontario – which can be a good thing if you know what type of protection you’re looking for.
There are coverages that drivers are required to have, and optional endorsements that can be added to supplement your auto insurance policy in Ontario. Mandatory coverages are generally included in all standard policies – and one of our advisors can help you decide on which additional ones make the most sense for you. We know that your insurance needs to match your goals, your lifestyle and your budget. That’s why our expert auto insurance advisors get to know you, so that they can tailor a policy to your exact needs.
We’ll find the best coverage for you at the right price so that you can continue to live your life the way you want to.
This coverage protects you financially if you’re responsible for damages or injury to another person or their property. This can include the cost of covering damage you may cause to the property of others, the cost of medical care, legal fees, and settlement costs. The minimum you’re required to be covered for is $200,000, but this can be increased to up to $2 million with most providers.
Part of every auto insurance policy in Ontario, Accident Benefits coverage will kick if you or someone else has been injured in a collision. This coverage can extend to any drivers, passengers, or bystanders involved in the incident. Offering coverage medical care and rehab, income replacement, death and funeral expenses, and more, this is an important part of your auto insurance coverage.
If your car’s been damaged in a collision or accident with another vehicle where you’re not at fault, you can file a claim directly with your own insurer for repairs to your vehicle and other property damaged in the accident. This covers damages excluding injuries. While this coverage is highly recommended for drivers in Ontario, drivers are able to opt out.
This part of your policy offers protection if you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured. Be covered for injuries and damages to yourself and your vehicle.
Often mistaken as being part of your standard auto insurance in Ontario, Collision is an optional coverage you can add for extra peace of mind. It’ll cover instances where your vehicle has been damaged in an accident with another vehicle, and you’re at fault.
This coverage protects against damage or loss caused by events like fire, theft, and falling objects – basically, damage caused by things other than a collision.
If you’re unable to use your car because of an insured loss or damage, this provides coverage for transportation replacement or a rental vehicle.
This coverage extends protection to your family if the at-fault driver’s coverage isn’t enough. In the event of injury or even death with an underinsured, uninsured, or unidentified driver, Family Protection will cover you up to your maximum liability coverage.
Offered by many insurance companies in Ontario, Ticket and Accident Forgiveness are optional coverages you can add to avoid having your premium go up after your first conviction or at-fault accident.
How much is auto insurance in Ontario?
How much you pay for auto insurance in Ontario depends on where you live, the type of car you drive, and more.
What factors determine the cost of auto insurance in Ontario?
The type of car you drive will impact your premium, depending on factors including its safety rating and the general cost of repairs. The likelihood of it being involved in a collision or theft will also impact your price.
Drivers with years of experience will typically pay less for auto insurance in Ontario. Insurance companies are also permitted to take gender into account – female drivers are usually granted a lower rate, as males are statistically more likely to be involved in fatal collisions.
Convictions like speeding tickets, at-fault collisions, and other driving infractions will impact how much you pay for auto insurance in Ontario. Parking tickets aren’t taken into consideration.
Rates can vary depending on where you live. Whether you’re in a neighbourhood that’s deemed high-risk for incidents, out in the country where driving longer distances is more common, or downtown Toronto where there are more cars on the road, where you’re driving the most will affect how much you pay for auto insurance in Ontario.
Your daily commute will be factored into your auto insurance premium. The more you’re on the road, the more at-risk you’ll be of being involved in a collision.
If there are drivers in your home without their own auto insurance policy, you’ll need to add them to yours. This can impact how much you pay for auto insurance in Ontario.
How to save on auto insurance in Ontario
Optimize your coverage
There are a few ways to save on auto insurance in Ontario. First, review your coverages and limits with your broker. Optimizing your coverage to ensure it fits your needs and lifestyle is a great way to cut costs and avoid paying for protection you may not want or need.
Consider your deductible
Raising your deductible is another way to reduce your premium. A higher deductible means you’d be paying more out of pocket in the event of a claim but it could help you save on your monthly insurance cost.
Discounts
Take advantage of the discounts offered by your provider – many insurance companies in Ontario offer a selection of discounts you may be eligible for.
Ask about telematics programs
Finally, inquire about telematics or tracking programs. Providers will sometimes offer a percentage off your insurance if you allow them to assess your driving habits using a telematics app or device in your car.
Discounts on Ontario auto insurance
Winter tire
Save on auto insurance in Ontario when you equip your vehicle with winter tires during the cold months.
Multi-line
Insure your home or other vehicles with the same provider for extra savings.
Mature customer
Customers 65+ can save more on auto insurance.
Renewal
Enjoy a loyalty discount when you stay with your insurance provider for multiple consecutive years.
Claims-free
Get rewarded for having a good auto insurance claims history.
Driver training
Save more on your auto insurance when you’ve completed a recognized driving-training program.
Why choose Westland for your Ontario auto insurance needs?
Expert advisors go above and beyond
Our advisors go the extra mile every step of the way and do the legwork to provide personalized auto insurance coverage in Ontario to suit your lifestyle.
Our large network of insurers means more choice
We have a large network of insurers that we can tap into - guaranteeing great rates and options - so you know you’re not missing out.
We work hard to make things simple
Whether it comes to finding the right auto insurance coverage or navigating a claim, we keep things simple and use language that everyone can understand.
Example of an auto insurance claim
- Direct Compensation – Property Damage
Your bumper’s been dented by the collision. Direct Compensation will help get it repaired as soon as possible. - Accident Benefits
The driver of the other car and your passengers are experiencing whiplash after the incident. They’ll be able to get the medical care they need with coverage from Accident Benefits. - Accident Forgiveness
This was your first at-fault collision – but you won’t have to worry about it impacting your premium at renewal since you’ve added Accident Forgiveness to your policy.
Connect with us
Our expert advisors are waiting to help you find the perfect auto insurance policy.
Find a branch
Come in and speak to an advisor to get a customized policy made just for you.
Request a quote
Start an online quote at your convenience, and we’ll help you select a plan that works for you.
FAQs about auto insurance in Ontario
Which type of auto insurance is mandatory in Ontario?
The required coverage to drive in Ontario is $200,000 in Third-Party Liability, Accident Benefits, Uninsured Automobile, and Direct Compensation-Property Damage (DCPD). Drivers can opt out of DCPD coverage, but that may not be the best option for you. Speak to a trusted advisor at Westland for advice before making your choice.
How can I lower my auto insurance cost in Ontario?
The cost of auto insurance in Ontario can be managed in a few ways. First, inquire about discounts and telematics programs you can participate in to help lower your premium. Consider bundling your home and auto insurance for an extra discount, and ensure your coverages are up to date – an advisor can help tailor your policy to make sure you have the coverage you need and avoid paying for the ones you don’t.
Who can drive my car under my auto insurance in Ontario?
Drivers with a valid licence and your permission can drive your car – but keep in mind you’re sharing your insurance as well. If they get into a collision, your policy will need to cover the damages and your premium would likely go up at renewal.
What coverage do you need in Ontario?
Third-party liability, Accident Benefits, Uninsured Automobile, and Direct Compensation-Property Damage (DCPD) are all required to drive in Ontario – although you can opt out of DCPD If you wish. While these are the basic coverages required to drive in Ontario, there are additional coverages you can add to level up your protection like Collision, Comprehensive, Family Protection, and more.
Types of vehicle insurance in Ontario
Motorcycle insurance
Offers coverage you need to drive a motorcycle, moped, or scooter on public roadways with peace of mind.
Off-road vehicle insurance
Best suited for those with a taste for adventure, get an off-road vehicle insurance policy for your snow mobile or all-terrain vehicle.
Rental auto insurance
A more cost-effective alternative to getting insurance through the rental company, while still getting the protection you need.
RV insurance
With similar coverages to auto insurance, RV insurance policies also address the unique features of having a home on wheels.
Commercial auto insurance
Whether you have one commercial vehicle or a fleet, we have the commercial auto policy you need.
Buy auto insurance in Ontario with confidence
Whether you're ready to buy a new auto insurance policy in Ontario or just want to shop around for rates, our advisors are ready to help. Contact us today to get started!
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