Before getting on the road, it is essential to get your Car Insurance because B.C. has the highest accident rates.
Accidents cannot be foretold; therefore, putting safety first is crucial, especially in B.C., where the accident rate is ever-increasing.
Over 820 crashes are reported in B.C. every day, out of which 170 cause fatal injuries. The Economic Burden of Injuries in British Columbia due to transport incidents is around $700 million annually. This necessitates every citizen to have insurance to cover the costs.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to why car insurance helps you hit the road with confidence and protects you fully if the unforeseen may happen:
Why is Car Insurance Necessary?
The basic ICBC auto insurance plan is mandatory if you are a car owner in B.C.
A comprehensive insurance plan covers various expenses, including repairs if your vehicle gets damaged or involved in an accident. Also, if you are found to be at fault for an accident resulting in someone else’s vehicle being damaged or hurt, you may be held liable. That’s where your insurance plan will back you up.
Note: Your insurance record and premiums may be impacted if you opt to lend your vehicle to someone who is not covered by your insurance policy and they have an accident.
What is Covered by an Auto Insurance Policy?
When it comes to safeguarding yourself and your vehicle on the roads of Canada, having the right Auto Insurance coverage is essential. Auto insurance provides financial protection in case of accidents, damage to your car, or injuries to yourself and others. Two main types of auto insurance options exist: Mandatory Coverage and Optional Coverage.
Mandatory Coverage:
Accident Benefits:
No matter who is at fault, this coverage safeguards you and your passengers if you sustain injuries in a car accident. It aids in making up for connected expenditures such as medical bills and income replacement if an accident prevents you from working.
Uninsured Vehicle Coverage:
This coverage will protect you if you get into an accident with an uninsured motorist who is at fault. When the other motorist cannot pay, your medical costs and property damage are covered, giving you the needed help.
Direct Compensation:
If you are not at fault in an accident involving another vehicle, this coverage allows you to seek compensation from your insurer for the damages to your car. However, it’s important to note that this coverage may not protect you in at-fault accidents. To have comprehensive protection, you can opt for optional collision coverage.
Liability:
This coverage protects you if you cause injury to another person or damage their property or vehicle. It helps cover the costs of legal claims and compensations, saving you from potentially substantial financial liabilities.
Optional Coverage:
Collision or Upset:
Accidents can happen, and if your car is damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object, this coverage will cover the repair or replacement costs. It ensures your car is back on the road as soon as possible.
Specific Risks:
Nature can be unpredictable, and certain hazards like fire, flood, or hail can cause significant damage to your vehicle. With this coverage, you can know that you’re protected against such specific natural perils and theft.
Comprehensive:
This plan provides additional coverage options beyond collision or upset. It protects against theft, vandalism, falling objects, and other non-collision incidents.
All Perils:
For the most extensive coverage, you can opt for the All Perils policy, which combines the benefits of both comprehensive and collision or upset insurance options. This means you’ll have the highest protection against many potential risks.
What are the Benefits of Optional Coverage?
- Collision forgiveness prevents the increase in your premium after the first collision in which you were at fault.
- It covers repair charges for a rental car’s damage.
- Depreciation guarantees that you get back all you spent on your automobile.
- While your automobile is being fixed, you can rent a car or find another mode of transportation (the costs will be covered).
- Covered expenses of roadside emergency aid.
How Does Car Insurance Work?
Your basic and even optional auto insurance in British Columbia is provided by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC).
When you are involved in an accident or make a claim, damages worth $200,000 will get covered by your basic insurance plan. Even when you are at fault, about 75-100% of the repair costs are covered by your insurance company.
However, when you make a claim, your driving history, previous car incident record, etc., are considered.
As the number of accidents in B.C. is rising annually, it is necessary to have a personalized car insurance plan. Contact Choice Insurance for the most transparent car insurance quotes to stay protected and stress-free.
FAQs
How Much is Car Insurance in B.C. per Month?
According to the latest statistics, a first-time automobile owner’s yearly premium is about $3,194 ($270 per month). However, your insurance cost will decrease if you maintain a clean driving record with no traffic tickets or accidents.
What does a Car Insurance Policy not Cover?
In most cases, your auto insurance will not cover the wear and tear to your vehicle or theft/damage to your personal belongings. Your house insurance may cover those. In addition, your insurance would only bear the cost of heavy fines when you disobey traffic rules or drive with a license. Moreover, if you forget to renew your policy and have an accident, your insurance will not cover the damage.
How Does an Insurance Company Figure out the Cost of Insurance?
The cost of car insurance is determined by age, residence, gender, vehicle of choice, automobile condition, driving needs, driving history, claims history, and coverage options. Find a Private Auto Insurance Broker to get the best rates.
