What is “two-way” car insurance?

Before I had a car, I always wondered what it meant to be insured “both ways.” Left and right, I thought to myself jokingly. But I knew that couldn’t the definition of two-way car insurance.

My first car really took a beating. In my first year of driving, I managed to back up into a parked car, smash my side door by hitting a gas station pole, get hit by a car that ran a stop sign, break a mirror driving down a very narrow street in Montreal, and fall victim to theft. My parents were quite despairing and I learned the hard way about being insured “both ways”!

So, here’s the low-down on two-way insurance:

One-way insurance

In Quebec your car insurance must include at least $50,000 in civil liability; whereas in Ontario, drivers are legally required to carry $200,000 in liability, basic accident benefits and uninsured motorist coverage. This is what is commonly referred to as one-way insurance. When you own a car, you must be insured at least one way or you will be driving illegally.This basic coverage helps protect you in the event that you injure someone or cause damage to their property. You should choose to increase the amount of civil liability coverage if you travel outside your home province because the laws are different elsewhere.  One-way insurance can be an attractive option if your car is on the older side.

Two-way insurance

Two-way insurance offers protection for damage to your vehicle in addition to mandatory coverage. You can design a policy that fits your needs and the way you use your car as well as your budget. For example, if there are several vehicles registered to your address, everyone who lives there can save up to 15% on their insurance premiums if their car is insured with belairdirect. You can also sign up for the automerit program that allows you to save on your insurance based on your driving habits.

It is really more beneficial to carry two-way insurance and take advantage of the strategies and programs offered online by belairdirect. Plus, you can get a quote online. It’s simple and quick and your car will be better protected!

Learn more about how you can protect yourself from paying out of pocket for car theft with replacement cost coverage and home insurance for your personal property.