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Car insurance in Burlington, Ontario
If you own or drive a car in Burlington, you must have car insurance. Auto insurance in Burlington, just like any other city in Ontario, is regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA), an arm of the Ministry of Finance. FSRA regulates the proposed rates by all insurance companies to make sure they are reasonable for the consumers, while allowing the companies to factor in their operating costs, future claims from consumers and their own profit.
If you drive, own or lease a car and do not carry valid auto insurance, you can be subject to hefty fines ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 on the first conviction. Driving without valid auto insurance is against the law and you can have your driver's licence suspended and your vehicle seized on the second or subsequent conviction. The Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act requires every car owner or lessee to insure that vehicle if it is being operated on a public road. The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO), along with the Ministry of Transportation and local police services, enforce that Act by prosecuting offences in court and by imposing fines for contraventions.
Driving without valid auto insurance could deem you a “high-risk” driver which will lead to your insurance company charging you a higher-than-average premiums or refuse to sell you insurance altogether. If you are injured in an accident while driving or occupying an uninsured vehicle you may not be entitled to receive income replacement and non-earner benefits and you may not be able to sue the at-fault driver for compensation.
Mandatory & optional insurance coverages in Burlington
Insurance type | Mandatory coverage | Optional/ Additional Coverage |
---|
Third-Party Liability | $200,000 minimum. Provides coverage in the event of a lawsuit resulting from an accident where you are at fault. | Coverage can be increased to $500,000, $1 million, or $2 million, with up to $2 million limit. |
Direct Compensation-Property Damage (DC-PD) | Covers damage to your car, or loss of use of your vehicle, if someone else is at fault. Must involve another insured vehicle. | For additional vehicle coverage, including for when you are at-fault, consider collision coverage. |
Uninsured Automobile Insurance | Provides up to $200,000 in coverage if you are injured or killed by an uninsured driver, or if your vehicle is damaged as a result of a hit-and-run by an unidentified, uninsured motorist. | Family Protection Coverage is an optional coverage that includes additional coverage of up to $1 million in the case of a hit-and-run by an uninsured motorist. |
Statutory Accident Benefits | Provides coverage if you are injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Covers medical expenses that aren’t covered by OHIP. | Coverage limits can be increased. |
Collision Coverage (Also Upset Coverage) | Optional | Covers the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle following a collision with another vehicle, an object, or property. |
Comprehensive Coverage | Optional | Covers damages caused by named perils identified under the Specified Perils coverage, as well as losses from other perils like falling or flying objects, theft, fire, hail, windstorms, missiles, and vandalism. |
Specified Perils Coverage | Optional | Covers damages caused by named perils such as theft, attempted theft, explosions, natural disasters like fire, lightning, windstorm, hail, rising water, earthquakes, and other perils specified in your policy. Specified perils do not cover damages due to vandalism, breakage of glass, etc. |
All-Perils Coverage | Optional | Combines collision/upset and comprehensive coverage. Also, provides additional protection if a household member or an employee steals your vehicle. |
OPCF 20: Coverage for Transportation Replacement | Optional | Covers the cost of your transportation replacement and rental car insurance if you were to get into a car accident or if your vehicle is stolen. |
OPCF 27: Liability for Damage to Non-Owned Automobile(s) | Optional | Covers if you damage a borrowed or rental vehicle. The coverage limit is usually around $25,000 to $50,000. |
OPCF 39: Accident Waiver/Forgiveness | Optional | Protect your premium from rising when you have your first at-fault accident. |
Factors that determine your car insurance rates in Burlington
Several factors can impact your car insurance premium, which includes your driving history, age, and gender, to name a few. Be ready to pay more for insurance if you have had multiple speeding tickets or have been at fault in a collision. But there are also other factors most drivers aren’t familiar with. Here are some of the main factors that insurance companies consider when calculating car insurance rates in Burlington:
- Neighbourhood:Where you live has a major influence on your auto insurance rates. If drivers in your neighbourhood are more likely to file claims, it will reflect on your premium too. Driving behaviour, congestion in the area, crime rates, may vary from one postal code to the next and hence impact insurance rates.
- Vehicle: The type of vehicle you drive can impact your automobile insurance rate. A car with custom specifications, or luxury trim will raise your premium since they cost significantly more to repair or replace.
- Annual mileage: Insurance companies want to know the time you spend on the road before they write you a policy. The more you drive, the more likely you are to get in an accident. Therefore, people who drive longer distances tend to pay more for car insurance. Taking public transit when possible and avoiding extra driving distances can reduce your annual mileage and in turn, help you save on insurance.
- Driving history: Your insurance premium could increase or decrease depending on your driving history. If you have any convictions or accidents on your record, you’ll pay more for insurance until enough time has passed (it is usually six years but can vary by insurer and by type of offence). If you like to drive in the fast lane, be careful as speeding tickets could raise a red flag for your insurance provider.
- Insurance coverage: Burlington has mandatory and optional auto insurance coverage, just like other Ontario cities. If you select coverages beyond the standard requirement, you will pay more for that enhanced protection.
- Discount eligibility: Your age, gender, occupation, and alumni are all potential sources of discounts. Always ask your insurance provider about which discounts you're eligible for to ensure you get the best rate.
- Additional drivers: Any additional drivers on your policy will expand your vehicle's coverage, but it also means you'll pay more.
- Bundle your insurance: Bundle your insurance policies, such as home and auto, to receive a 5% to 15% annual discount.
Car insurance rates for Burlington seniors
Car insurance rates for people between the ages of 50 to 65 are usually the lowest in the province because this age group tends to have a long insurance and driving history, long loyalty to their insurance provider, and long-term bundle packages. Customers in this age group are usually preferred clients of insurance providers because of all these characteristics and often are offered the lowest possible rates.
Older seniors, mostly within the age group of 70 to 80 years old may see their car insurance prices rise because insurance providers consider them to be at a greater risk of collisions. It may also take older people longer to recover if they are injured in an accident, making claims more expensive.
As a senior, if you have seen your auto insurance premium increase with age, comparing rates with different companies may yield savings. Use LowestRates.ca's online quote tool above to get started.
Car insurance rates for students in Burlington
Younger drivers are generally the highest insurance payers because the younger, less experienced drivers are more likely to get involved in auto accidents that lead to claims for insurance providers.
If you have been covered for auto insurance since age 16, your insurance premium rates should begin going down in your mid-20s and will continue to decline with age.
A few tips to consider reducing your premiums are:
- Purchase an older car. These cars are cheaper to insure.
- Use your parents' car and ask to be added as a secondary driver on their insurance policy, instead of buying a new vehicle.
- Take certified driving lessons and ask your insurance provider what courses qualify for a discount and what proof you will need to provide for that.
- Some insurance providers offer good student discounts. Ask your insurance provider what requirements will help you get better rates.
Car insurance for new immigrants in Burlington
New immigrants can trade in their international driver’s licence to get an Ontario driver's license and car insurance within 60 days of arriving in Ontario. The Government of Ontario honours drivers' licenses from certain countries as equivalent to an Ontario license, making it easier to trade in your old license for a new one.
Here are the countries Ontario recognizes for its driver's license exchange program: Australia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, the Isle of Man, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Switzerland, Taiwan, United States.
If you moved to Ontario from a country besides those listed above, you will need to follow the steps of Ontario's graduated licensing system to obtain your driver's license. However, you might be able to avoid this if you have a letter from their home country’s regional transport department that attests to your good driving record. You can request your previous car insurance provider to give a reference to your new Ontario insurance company. Sharing information about your insurance and driving history can help lower your rate.
Car insurance for high-risk drivers in Burlington
High-risk drivers are likely to file for more claims and hence have higher premiums. A high-risk driver is someone who has been convicted of a driving offence or being caught driving without insurance coverage.
High-risk drivers still need auto insurance to drive, so there are providers that will offer you coverage. LowestRates.ca partners with the best high-risk car insurance providers to ensure you can obtain the coverage you need at the lowest rate available.
How can you get the cheapest car insurance in Burlington?
It's easy — if you know how. Here are some of the best ways to lower your auto insurance premiums:
Shop around
We'll show you the most competitive rates from all the top insurers. Now you can compare quotes all in one place.
Buy the right coverage
Avoiding extra frills in your policy and paying for only the coverage you need will lower your premiums.
Drive responsibly
Your driving record impacts your rate. Fewer infractions and fines equals cheaper insurance.
Pay on time
Prompt payments can save you money on late fees and lower your premiums. Insurers love a good customer.
Bundle up
Adding a house, motorcycle, RV, or other type of insurance policy to your car insurance plan can lower your rates.
Be safe, not sorry
Safety features like winter tires and alarm systems can help reduce your insurance premium.
Stick with one insurer
Most auto insurance companies give special discounts to customers who stay with them for a number of years.
Take a course
A defensive driving course makes you a better driver and can significantly reduce your car insurance premiums.
Keep driving
The math is clear: more experience on the road equals lower car insurance premiums. Young drivers almost universally pay higher rates for car insurance. While it’s difficult for new drivers to secure cheap car insurance rates, you may be able to lower your rates by maintaining good grades and attending driving school.
Look at location
Where you drive affects your premiums. Some areas are associated with higher rates of car accidents and theft.
Choose the right car
Cars with high crash-test scores, low theft ratings, and less powerful engines tend to have cheaper insurance rates.
Track your driving
With a usage-based car insurance policy, you can turn your low-risk driving habits into lower premiums.
Facts and myths about Burlington auto insurance.
There are several myths and rumors doing the rounds when it comes to automobile insurance. Here are a few to help you sift through fact from fiction.
- Every speeding ticket will increase your premiums:
This is a myth. While tickets from automated speed cameras will not impact your insurance, as it goes to vehicle owner and not the driver. However, unpaid fines will eventually show on your driving history and impact your insurance premium and license renewal. Practicing safe driving habits is an important way to safeguard your insurance rates and the safety of everyone using the roads. - Men pay more than women for car insurance:
Yes, it's a fact. Men under the age of 25 tend to pay higher auto insurance premiums as they are statistically more likely to get into accidents compared with women. However, as men age and build a positive driving record the gender gap diminishes. - If a tree limb falls on your car, your insurance will always cover the damage:
Another misconception. Your car insurance policy will only protect you from damage caused by falling tree limbs, vandalism, fire and certain other causes if you have purchased comprehensive coverage that includes these risks. Carefully understand your options when selecting an auto insurance policy so you know what’s covered and what’s not. - A long relationship with one auto insurance provider will earn you the best price.
Maybe. While insurance providers shower long-time customers with loyalty incentives, it’s still a smart move to shop around. The auto insurance provider who initially offered you a fabulous rate may no longer have the best deal for your coverage needs. It’s a good habit to compare the market every year or so to understand whether you’re still getting the best price from your Burlington insurance provider. - You cannot change your current car insurance policy until your contract expires:
Another myth. In fact, if you can find a better deal on auto insurance you can change your insurance provider any time. You don’t have to wait until your policy expires.
There are several permutations and combinations you must apply while customizing the lowest car insurance for your needs. Several factors are considered, and it can often lead to misperceptions, rumors and myths about how auto insurance works. At LowestRates.ca, we help you demystify the market and identify the right insurance provider offering the lowest price, whatever your coverage needs.
Use our free online quotes tool to get your customized quote for the most competitive rate on your coverage in just a few minutes.
Frequently asked questions about car insurance in Burlington.
How much is car insurance in Burlington?
Several factors are taken into consideration to determine your car insurance rate. This is the reason why one driver’s insurance could be higher or lower compared to his neighbour. To get the lowest rate, you must shop around and ask insurance providers about possible discounts and lowest rates available for your coverage needs.
Which Burlington postal code has the highest average premiums?
Each postal code has a unique rate for drivers, and it is sometimes possible that your neighbour might have a lower rate of premium than you. It is always best to check with your insurance provider before locking in a final rate. The Burlington postal code with the highest average premium is the L7P area. This postal code encompasses the Brant Hills, Mountainside and Tyandaga neighbourhoods
Which Burlington postal code has the lowest average premiums?
The Burlington postal code with the lowest average premium is the L7T region, which encompasses Aldershot, Central (Downtown), and Plains.
How do Burlington car insurance rates compare to other cities in Ontario?
Burlington ranks 30th among Ontario cities with the highest car insurance premium. The top five Ontario cities with highest premium are: Vaughan, Ajax, Richmond Hill, Brampton, and Mississauga.
Where do I get the cheapest car insurance quotes in Burlington?
It is best to shop around and ask insurance providers for the discounts they can offer before finalizing your insurance provider. At LowestRates.ca, we help you understand the market better and find the right insurance provider that can provide you with the lowest rates possible as per your needs.
Tips for driving in Burlington
- Disobeying road signs or speed limits can result in traffic tickets, which will raise your premiums. Paletta Lakefront Park is home to the Paletta Mansion, a popular venue for weddings. Drivers, be aware that the roads surrounding this park are extra busy during wedding season.
- Lowering your annual mileage by taking public transit will reduce your car insurance premiums. There's a myth that there’s no public transit in Burlington. In reality, Burlington Transit services the community and connects to the Hamilton and Oakville public transit systems. There are also three Burlington stops along the Lakeshore West GO Train line.
- Traffic can get congested on the Skyway Bridge or, if there's a serious accident, the Skyway can be blocked off. That's why you need to be aware of alternate routes, especially if you travel north or south from Burlington. There's a correlation between the amount of time you spend driving and the likelihood of you being involved in an accident. If you're commuting from Burlington, increasing your accident benefit may be a good idea. It will raise your premium, but it could save you a lot of money in the long run.
LowestRates.ca Staff
About the Author
The LowestRates.ca writing team focuses on telling original stories and bringing you the latest news in the world of personal finance.
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Read the Story Read More Like This *Represents the average saved by shoppers who obtained a Burlington car quote on LowestRates.ca and transacted via our contact centre between January and December 2021. The average savings amount represents the difference between the shoppers’ average lowest quoted premium and the average of the second and third lowest quoted premiums generated by LowestRates.ca.
*Represents the average saved by shoppers who obtained a Burlington auto insurance quote on LowestRates.ca and transacted via our contact centre between January and December 2022. The average savings amount represents the difference between the shoppers’ average lowest quoted premium and the average of the second and third lowest quoted premiums generated by LowestRates.ca.