✔ Accident forgiveness coverage

This coverage is almost mandatory if you qualify by having at least six to eight years without an at-fault accident. There will be forgiveness for the first at-fault accident, meaning that you won't get a significant rate increase. This coverage should be taken if it is available.

✔ Conviction free protection

Since you obey the speed limit, you should be rewarded. Not only will you get a discount when you are conviction-free, but this also allows you to buy protection, so you can maintain and enjoy the discounts you receive for having a non-moving violation ticket on your record within the last 3 years.

Should you get one or two tickets for three years? Your rate will not increase due to the moving violation ticket. This can be significant as it could save you well over $500 per year of increased premium if you don’t have this coverage.

✔ Depreciation waiver

Just got a new car? Congratulations! Now drive off a lot, and, unfortunately, your car now just depreciated by 10% to 15%. This means if the vehicle is stolen or destroyed, you will not get back the full value, and there may be a shortfall that would have to be paid back to your lending institution. This endorsement will cover the shortfall, which could be huge.

This protection will last on your new car from 24 to 48 months, depending on the insurance company.

✔ Collision coverage

This coverage will protect your car should you have an accident. It also covers hit-and-run accidents or claims made against you while driving. You will likely have to pay your deductible, and the insurance company will pay the rest.

✔ Comprehensive coverage

This coverage is sometimes called fire and theft coverage. It covers vandalism, falling objects, theft, fire, and hail damage.

Here's a little secret: most of the big insurance companies in Ontario that deal with insurance brokers...

This is what you all hear from many people, including the top websites. However, the truth is that online quotes are rarely accurate. 

Insurance is a volume business, and a broker may have hundreds if not thousands of clients. It may be difficult for them to get to you every year.

Did you know you can save up to 15% off of your car insurance premium if your vehicle is equipped with autonomous brakes?

Some companies will offer a 5% discount if you pay your premium in advance. Normally they ask for a 1% to 3% interest charge when you pay your auto insurance monthly.

Due to media hype, many consumers just look for the cheapest possible rate and buy insurance there. Big mistake!

Can tell you from experience car insurance is a hot topic. It is usually an election issue when the election comes on.

Over the years, many people have made the mistake of purchasing a vehicle and only then asking how much it will be to insure it.

Credit is not yet a rating factor in Ontario. The insurance companies are pushing for it, as they already have this as a rating factor with property insurance.

Do you belong to a certain alumni group? What about an association?

If you commute to the bus station or train station on a regular basis, make sure your broker knows! Why?

Driver training is not only for new or young drivers. I would urge anyone who is newly licensed to make sure they go through the driver training course and receive the certification.