At Roughley Insurance Brokers, we pride ourselves on offering the right coverage at the right price. You are a unique individual so your insurance should be too. There is not a one-size-fits-all auto insurance coverage – when reviewing the factors that contribute to your auto insurance, we will speak directly to you to determine the coverage that best suits you and your needs.
Unfortunately, Ontario has some of the highest auto insurance premiums in the country. There are some ways you can reduce your premium and save some money.
First, let’s discuss how your premium is calculated.
How is your premium decided?
The first factors taken into consideration when insuring companies determine your auto insurance premium are the make, model and year of your car. Generally, the harder your car is to steal and the less expensive it is to repair, the less you pay for insurance. The records of the people insured to drive the car and your geographical location are also deciding factors.
The list of factors that play a role in your auto insurance premium is extensive but we have compiled a list of the most common factors:
- Geographical location – History and statistics have shown that higher density populations equal more accidents, risk and thefts. Frequent claims in the area you live equals higher insurance premiums.
- Frequency of use – the more you are on the road, the higher the chance for an accident to occur.
- Driving record – The number of years you have had your license, the number of speeding tickets you have and past claims are all taken into consideration when determining your premium.
- Your age – Younger drivers tend to have higher insurance premiums because statistically this demographic tends to have more accidents. The older you get, the lower your insurance should be.
- The level of coverage you choose on items such as your deductible, accident benefits, collision and comprehensive.
- Your vehicle – Insurance Bureau of Canada collects data on how often your vehicle type has a claim, how severe the injuries are as a result of an accident and the cost of repairs. These factors all relate to a rating that is given to your vehicle which the insurance company then bases premiums off of.
How you can save money on your auto insurance?
- Winter tires – if you change your tires seasonally to winter tires, you should let your Insurance Broker know. You could be entitled to a discount on your premium.
- Bundle your insurance policies – If you bundle your home insurance, condominium insurance, or tenant insurance with your auto policy you could be entitled to a discount.
- Keep a clean driving record – Each infraction will increase your insurance premium.
- Usage Based Insurance – some companies offer discounts based on your specific driving habits. These are assessed by either an app on your phone or a device that you plug into your car.
You can review your current policy with your Insurance Broker. There are a few events that should trigger a review of your auto policy:
- When your policy comes up for renewal.
- When you experience a major lifestyle change such as living arrangements and family changes.
- You have major purchases or improvements to your car.
If you would like to discuss your policy, your payment schedule, or changes to your coverage needs, we invite you to call us and speak to one of our Roughley team members.
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We are available Monday to Friday, 9am until 4:30pm.
Oshawa Location
Phone: 905.576.7770 • Toll Free: 1.888.558.0883
Fax: 905.576.3610
insure@staging.roughleyinsurance.com
Bowmanville Location
Phone: 905.697.4257 • Toll Free: 1.888.558.0883
Fax: 289.316.3662
insurebowmanville@staging.roughleyinsurance.com