The ABCs of car insurance
An insurance policy isn’t something you buy on a whim. Many factors have to be taken into account, such as the type of risks that are covered, the premium, which drivers are covered— not to mention the notorious fine print! Fortunately, our customer service agents are equipped to answer even the most complex questions. Here are the top 10 common questions:
If someone other than me is at the wheel, is my car covered?
Absolutely! You can lend your vehicle to anyone with a valid driver’s license and they will be protected under your car insurance policy. In the case of an accident, the incident will count on your policy, so it’s best to lend your vehicle to good drivers.
It’s also important to note that if you’re lending your vehicle on a one-time basis, you don’t need to advise your insurer. However, if someone is driving your car on a regular basis, you do need to advise your insurer.
To ensure proper coverage, make sure to always report occasional drivers to your insurance company.
If I drive a friend’s car, am I covered?
If you drive a friend’s car, their insurance policy will provide primary coverage for any accident, except for accident benefits coverage. Your own accident benefits coverage is critical if you are injured in a car accident.
Am I covered outside of Canada?
belairdirect policyholders are covered across Canada and the United States. If you are planning a trip that is six months or longer, you will need to contact us to make sure you are properly covered. For travel in other countries, you will need to make other insurance arrangements.
How is my premium calculated?
Many factors are considered when calculating insurance premiums. The main ones are the driver’s age, driving experience and claims history, as well as the type of vehicle and the use of the vehicle.
What vehicles are least expensive to insure?
Contrary to popular belief, the colour of the vehicle is not a factor! Insurance companies use statistics to determine which vehicles are at a higher risk of being involved in claims. Other factors affecting the rates are the cost of repairs for the vehicle, and the risk of injury in the case of an accident.
Will my premium go down when I reach the age of 25?
belairdirect does not offer specific discounts based on age groups. However, age is taken into consideration in the calculation of the premium when the policy is renewed each year, and young drivers may see a decrease in their rates as they age.
Why are my children so expensive to insure?
Premiums are higher for new drivers because they have little driving experience. As they gain more experience, their rates will improve.
Do I have to include my children in my insurance policy?
Unless they have their own car insurance policies, you do need to include your children in your insurance policy.
Can I include my children’s vehicles in my policy?
The policyholder does need to be the registered owner of the vehicle, so you would not be able to insure your children’s vehicles on your policy. If you and your children are all insured with belairdirect, you will still benefit from the same Multi-vehicle Discount!
I had an accident. How long will it stay on my record?
At belairdirect, at-fault accidents in the last 10 years are considered in determining your rates. Generally speaking, the impact of an accident declines the further in the past the accident is.
