Auto coverage can seem complicated. There are a lot of things to take into account to make sure you have the right coverage.
Our representatives will make sure you have the most complete coverage we can find for you, at the best possible price.
The reason there are choices among insurance providers is because not everyone needs the same coverage, or is willing to pay the same amount for similar insurance.
For example, not everyone who is driving a $2,000 car is going to want comprehensive coverage or a low deductible, because the replacement value may not be high enough to warrant paying a higher premium for more complete coverage. A fleet policy for vehicles driven in conditions where windshields are constantly subjected to pits (lots of gravel road driving) may want a separate glass endorsement, whereas on an ordinary passenger car driven only in the city it may not be worth it to even have glass coverage at all since windshields can be relatively inexpensive for older vehicles.
Depending on your policy, here’s what to take into account:
Liability (Section A):
Liability coverage pays for injury to others, and damage to their vehicles or property. You should have at least $1,000,000, most people aren’t comfortable with less than $2 million, and even a personal umbrella option up to $5 million is not excessive.
Accident Benefits (Section B):
This is a mandatory coverage in Alberta, providing limited medical protection, death benefits and lost wages.
Physical Damage (Section C):
Collision or Upset coverage. This covers your vehicle in the event of a collision, including hit & run. It is not mandatory, but if there is a loan on the vehicle then the bank or leasing company will require you to have it.
Loss of Use Endorsement (SEF 20):
If you are deprived of the use of your vehicle through an action or event covered by your policy, this endorsement will cover reasonable expenses incurred for the rental of a substitute vehicle. In other words, this is the part of your policy that will provide a rental if you’re in an accident.
Legal Liability for Physical Damage to a Non-Owned Automobile (SEF 27):
If you rent or borrow somebody’s vehicle and it sustains damage, this endorsement covers you. Not all policies have this endorsement automatically, so if you find yourself renting or borrowing vehicles a lot, make sure you have this coverage and carry proof of it with you. Coverage is only available on private passenger type vehicles while in the care, custody or control of the named insured for a period of 30 days or less.
Limited Waiver of Depreciation Endorsement (SEF 43):
This endorsement provides coverage for up to two years and reimburses your purchase price of the vehicle for a total insured loss of a new vehicle.
Family Protection Endorsement (SEF 44):
This endorsement is mandatory. If another party injures you in an automobile accident and they carry inadequate insurance to compensate, this provides coverage for you.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Provides coverage for fire, theft and vandalism losses, as well as other losses that are not insured under collision coverage. For example, if a tree is knocked over in a storm and falls on your vehicle, or if it’s damaged by hail, this is the coverage you’ll need for repair or replacement.
If you already have auto coverage, make sure you aren’t paying too much by following these tips.
Regardless of what policy you have, the best way to keep your rates low is to be a safe driver.