Calgary Car Insurance

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With approximately 1.04 million cars on Calgary roads and nearly 46,000 additional vehicles added in the last three years, auto insurance is necessary for all motorists, providing financial protection in case of car accidents due to high-density traffic areas like downtown and Deerfoot Trail Highway, theft, and weather-related damages stemming from the province's unpredictable weather conditions.

If you're looking for car insurance, understanding what insurance coverage you need and may want to consider with the help of an insurance broker in Alberta can help keep you safe behind the wheel.

BrokerLink compares rates from a wide range of providers, ensuring you get the best deals available.

What it Calgary car insurance?

Car insurance is a type of agreement you make with an insurance company. You pay a monthly fee, known as a premium, and in exchange, they will help you pay for the cost of repairs, replacements, and other expenses that may arise following a collision.

Is car insurance mandatory in Calgary?

Car insurance is mandatory in Canada, regardless of which province you live in. However, because insurance regulations are overseen at the provincial level, the Alberta government is in charge of regulating which Calgary car insurance policies are required and the minimum coverage limits.

Types of auto insurance coverage in Calgary

In Calgary, all motorists must carry the following types of coverage and minimums. However, most drivers opt for additional policies and higher limits for added protection. Take a closer look:

Third-party liability car insurance protects drivers who are involved in a collision that they caused from legal liability. For example, let's say you accidentally hit another car, and they experience severe bodily injuries and vehicle damage. Legally, they have the right to sue you, which can lead to costs that severely impact your finances. In fact, in Alberta, the cost of insurance claim lawyers has increased by 31% since 2018.

Under this portion of your policy, your insurance company can reimburse you for the cost of legal expenses and any relevant medical expenses, funeral expenses, or property damage repair bills associated with the accident. Drivers in Alberta are required to carry no less than $200,000 in third-party liability coverage at all times, though many drivers opt to carry up to $1 or $2 million.

Accident benefits coverage is intended to reimburse policyholders for medical expenses if someone is involved in an accident and needs medical attention. Accident benefits coverage can be claimed regardless of whether you caused the accident or not, and it can be claimed for yourself or someone else who suffered injuries in the accident, such as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver.

What's covered under this auto insurance coverage includes medical costs, rehabilitation treatment expenses, lost wages, and other associated fees that may not be covered by provincial healthcare.

Direct compensation - property damage offers financial protection for policyholders if they get into an accident that damages their vehicle.

For example, if you are involved in a collision while travelling through South Calgary to the Lincoln Park area to visit family, and that damages your car, but you're not responsible for the collision, you can be reimbursed for any necessary vehicle repairs. You'll also be able to communicate with your own insurance company rather than dealing with the other driver's provider. This enables Alberta drivers to be swiftly compensated for their losses following an accident.

Uninsured automobile coverage is also mandatory in Alberta, and it protects drivers if they get into a collision with another driver who does not have any car insurance or does not have adequate insurance coverage. Uninsured automobile coverage can also be claimed if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident.

Collision coverage is optional coverage that can be claimed if you get in an accident that results in property damage. It can be claimed whether you get into an accident with another car on the road or a grounded object. Further, collision coverage is valid whether you caused the accident or not.

Comprehensive coverage is centred on protecting Calgary drivers from the financial consequences of non-collision-related incidents. For example, if your car is stolen while parked on the street, your insurer may compensate you for the cost of replacing it if your policy has comprehensive coverage.

Comprehensive coverage only protects your vehicle from damage caused by specified perils unless you opt for all-perils coverage. The most common options Albertan drivers opt for are fire, wind, falling objects, vehicle theft, water damage, and vandalism.

One more type of optional car insurance coverage popular among drivers in Calgary is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness is additional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy as an endorsement to protect your driving record and to help prevent your insurance premium from increasing if you have an at-fault accident claim. Note: coverage varies by province.

What's covered under this auto insurance coverage includes medical costs, rehabilitation treatment expenses, lost wages, and other associated fees that may not be covered by provincial healthcare.

Direct compensation - property damage offers financial protection for policyholders if they get into an accident that damages their vehicle.

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How to secure lower Calgary auto insurance rates

Although you can't negotiate your car insurance rates with your insurance company (a common car insurance myth), there are ways you can secure cheap car insurance premiums from your provider. Here are some of our top tips and tricks that can help you save between 5% and 15% on your auto insurance rates:

Discounts

Insure multiple vehicles together

If your household has more than one vehicle, opting for a multi-car insurance policy can make you eligible for a discount. So, if you’re looking to insure your car, as well as your spouse’s car, insure them both at the same time with the same insurance company, and you may save between 15% and 20% on each policy.

Bundle insurance policies

Bundling insurance policies together is another way to save money on Calgary car insurance rates. The more insurance you buy from one company, the more likely they are to give you an insurance discount.

So if you’re also shopping for home insurance, business insurance, or insurance for leisure items like a cottage, boat, or ATV, look for an insurer that sells multiple kinds of insurance and purchase all your policies from them. Bundling multiple insurance policies together can save you up to 15% on each policy.

Install winter tires on your vehicle

Alberta winters are no laughing matter. Ice, snow, and sub-zero temperatures all make winter driving infinitely more dangerous. But installing winter tires on your vehicle, which are known for their superior capabilities in cold weather, can make driving safer. And because Calgary's annual snowfall rate is 333 centimetres, you can greatly benefit from installing them on your car.

Snow tires aren’t mandatory in Alberta, so if you choose to buy them, your insurance company may reward you with savings of up to 5% on your car insurance in Calgary.

Drive a hybrid or electric vehicle

Own and operate a hybrid or electric vehicle? Compared to traditional cars, owning an eco-friendly motor vehicle can lower your auto insurance premiums.

Savings Options

Compare Calgary car insurance quotes

Private insurance companies throughout Alberta have different underwriting techniques to generate risk profiles. This means that one insurance company charges you for Calgary car insurance may be different from another. So, to ensure you find the cheapest car insurance quotes available, shop around with different providers and compare quotes and coverage options.

Choose annual over month-to-month car insurance payments

One simple but effective way to save money on Calgary auto insurance is by paying for your auto insurance policy annually rather than monthly. Paying monthly may cost more in the long run, as insurance companies could add administrative fees for each monthly payment. Therefore, the fewer payments you make, the cheaper your policy will be.

Increase your deductible

So if you’re looking to save money on auto insurance, one way to do that is by increasing your deductible. The average car insurance deductible in Alberta is $500. By raising your deductible to $1,000 or more, you could reduce how much you pay for Calgary car insurance. To find out whether increasing your deductible is right for you, contact BrokerLink. We can explain what a deductible is, as well as the pros and cons of increasing yours.

Work with an insurance broker

One last way to save money on your Calgary auto insurance policy is by working with a trusted insurance broker. Brokers are insurance professionals who work independently from insurance providers. This allows them to shop around and compare Calgary car insurance quotes on your behalf, so you can find the cheapest car insurance available. They're also free to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your car insurance policies and more. The best part of all? Working with a broker is free of cost!

What factors affect the cost of affordable car insurance in Calgary?

Drivers in Alberta paid an average annual premium of $1,703 as of the first half of 2024, which is a 5.2% increase from the year before. So, how do car insurance companies in Alberta calculate insurance premiums for Calgary drivers? How car insurance companies work is by generating a risk profile for each customer that considers various factors. The riskier your profile is, the more you can anticipate paying for car insurance in Calgary. So, what types of factors are Calgary drivers being rated on?

Driving history

A good driving record can help you save money on your Calgary car insurance rates because insurance providers see you as a lower risk. A bad driving record that's stained with numerous traffic violations and insurance claims can indicate to Calgary auto insurance companies that you are an irresponsible driver, and therefore more of a risk to insure than others.

Age

Young drivers usually have some of the highest insurance premiums because they're in a demographic that makes them more prone to being in an at-fault accident compared to someone with more years of experience behind the wheel.

Often, rates will go down as you age, provided your driving history is good. In the meantime, attending driving school when you first get your driver's license and later attending a defensive driver training course can help lower your auto insurance premium.

Location

The area where you live and commute impacts the premiums for your car. For example, if you live in downtown Calgary or commute on one of the major highways around the city like Highway 1A, Highway 8, or Deerfoot Trail during times of high traffic congestion, your car insurance rates may be more expensive than those of someone who lives in a more rural area of Alberta.

This is because high-traffic areas increase the risk of getting into a collision. Similarly, areas with higher crime rates also impact what your car insurance in Calgary will cost.

Type of coverage

The amount of coverage you have on the vehicle will impact the premium. For example, merely opting for mandatory coverage and limits will be less expensive than purchasing additional auto insurance on top of their mandatory car insurance plans.

The make and model of the car

Some cars are more costly to insure than others. There are many reasons for this. For example, some types of cars tend to be costlier to repair and replace, like luxury vehicles and sports cars. Similarly, some vehicle models are more prone to theft than others. Canada's insurance claims for replacing stolen cars hit an unprecedented $1.5 billion in 2023. Therefore, if you drive a vehicle more prone to theft, you could face higher car insurance premiums.

Car insurance in Calgary: a comparison table

Here's a closer look at the different auto insurance policies available to Calgary drivers and what they cover:

Type of auto	Protection provided
Third-Party Liability	Covers damage to others' property and injuries.
Accident Benefits	Covers medical costs and lost wages.
Uninsured Motorist	Covers hit-and-run or uninsured driver damages.
Collision	Covers accident-related vehicle damages.
Comprehensive	Covers theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage.
Specified Perils	Covers risks only named in your policy.
All Perils	Comprehensive and collision coverage combined.

Note that this is not a full list of optional coverages. For more information on other policies, speak with your insurance company or a broker.

How to choose the right car insurance in Calgary

Choosing the right car insurance in Calgary takes careful consideration of your insurance needs, budget, and driving habits. Here's how you can feel confident in the policies you select:

1. Assess your coverage needs

Determine if you only need mandatory coverage or additional insurance coverage like collision, accident forgiveness, all perils, and comprehensive insurance.
Think about your vehicle’s value and how often you drive. Driving in high-traffic areas? Parking outdoors? Ask yourself these questions beforehand.

2. Compare car insurance quotes

Request car insurance quotes from multiple insurance providers to find competitive pricing and affordable premiums.
Use online comparison tools or consult a broker from BrokerLink for recommendations and advice.

3. Make sure to understand your car insurance policy terms

Read the fine print, including coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles, to determine whether you need to purchase add-on endorsements to supplement your coverage.

4. Avoid common mistakes

Underinsuring your vehicle: Choosing minimal coverage to save on your auto insurance rates short term can lead to higher out-of-pocket costs after an accident. Remember, the cheapest car insurance isn't always the best option. Balance affordable car insurance rates and coverage levels.
Ignoring deductibles: A higher deductible can lower your car insurance rates, but it also means more out-of-pocket expenses should you need to file a claim. Only raise your deductible if you can comfortably afford to pay higher costs.
Skipping discounts: Many drivers overlook available discounts such as safe driver rewards or bundling home and auto insurance. There are numerous discounts available from insurance companies, so don't forget to ask whether you qualify for more savings!

Looking to save on car insurance in Calgary? Contact BrokerLink for personalized insurance experiences today!

Steps to filing a car insurance claim

Navigating the aftermath of a vehicle accident can be overwhelming, especially if you're unsure what to do. Here's what you need to do:

Ensure you and your passengers are safe: First things first, make sure that you and your passengers are safe by examining yourselves for any injuries. If you have suffered injuries, you'll need to contact the police and call for medical assistance. Remember, if you do contact law enforcement, you'll need to get a copy of the police report for your claim.
Move your vehicle: If your vehicle is still working correctly, move it to the side of the road. This will help prevent traffic congestion and the risk of causing another accident.
Exchange information: Next, you'll want to exchange contact information with the other driver(s) involved. Ensure to get a copy of their driver's licence and their license plate as you'll need to provide this information to your insurance company.
Document the scene: Documenting the scene of the accident is an imperative step in ensuring you're fairly compensated for your losses, especially if you get into a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver. Remember to take as many photos and videos of the damages, injuries, and surrounding scene, so your insurance provider has plenty of evidence to base their decision on.
Contact your insurance company: Once you're in a safe area and have been checked for injuries (if applicable), you'll now need to contact your insurance company. Tell the insurance agent that you've been in an accident. They'll ask you a series of questions regarding the incident and provide you with a claim number.
Speak with your insurance adjuster: A couple of days later, your insurance adjuster handling your claim will contact you. From then on, you may be asked to provide more evidence regarding the circumstances of your collision, get your vehicle quoted for repairs, and attend medical practitioners for treatment.
Get compensated: Once your repairs are approved and you've received treatment for your injuries, your insurance adjuster will present you with a settlement offer. You can either choose to accept the compensation or negotiate for more money.
Close your claim: After you've accepted your reimbursement, you'll sign a release contract from your insurance company that states you'll be unable to open this claim in the future. Once signed, your provider will send you your lump sum payment in the mail or via e-transfer.

Have more questions about the claims process? Contact BrokerLink to speak with a broker today!

Benefits of Calgary car insurance

Beyond complying with local laws, Alberta drivers will also benefit from:

Protected finances and interests following a car accident

Car accidents can happen anytime. Whether you're the at-fault driver or another driver makes a mistake that you have no control over, both scenarios can lead to damages and injuries. A good car insurance policy will help you repair your car or replace it so that you don't find yourself having to cover the costs on your own.

You're protected in case of an injury

According to recent police data, there were 2,633 injury collisions in 2023, which is 219 more than in 2020. Your medical insurance will likely cover a great deal of any medical costs. But you might need rehabilitation therapy or have costs related to an injury that your medical insurance doesn't cover. Your auto insurance can provide help in these cases.

You're covered in the event of theft

What happens if someone steals your car? You'll have trouble getting to work, won't be able to run errands, and experience other inconveniences. Car insurance can help you replace or recover your vehicle, helping you save money on costs.

You're covered in the event of damage from nature

A tree falls on your car, or a flood causes major damage. It's no one's fault, but it can be costly to repair. Over the past three years, the cost of vehicle parts and replacements following collision and non-collision damages increased by 18%. Without insurance, you'd be left paying for these costs out of pocket. But with Calgary car insurance, you'd only have to pay a portion.

You can access a replacement vehicle while yours is being repaired

Some policies offer an allowance so that you can drive a rental vehicle while your car is being repaired, so you can still get to work and perform daily activities as needed in the meantime.

Not having Calgary car insurance can lead to serious consequences

Being caught driving without valid car insurance in Calgary can lead to serious consequences, including:

Fines between $2,000 and $20,000.
Driver's licence suspension and vehicle impoundment.
The inability to purchase car insurance in the future.

For affordable car insurance, contact the insurance brokers from BrokerLink today!

Whether you're looking for classic car insurance, car insurance for international students, or insurance for a new driver in Alberta, our brokers have access to numerous policies from top providers, allowing them to shop around, compare car insurance quotes and unlock discounts on your behalf.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Alberta. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

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FAQs on Calgary auto insurance

Have questions? Our FAQ section has the answers you're looking for. Find helpful information to guide you through your options.

Can I drive in Alberta with out-of-province insurance?

Yes, if you're visiting Alberta temporarily, your out-of-province is valid. However, if you move to Alberta, you'll need to apply for a valid Alberta driver's licence and insurance within 90 days of becoming a resident. To ensure the process of switching your license and insurance runs smoothly, ensure you have the right documents for insurance handy, including a claims experience letter from your previous provider.

What factors can lead to your insurance being cancelled?

Numerous scenarios could lead to your insurance being cancelled by your provider. Commonly, insurance companies will cancel your coverage if you do not pay your premiums, make fraudulent insurance claims, file too many claims for damages, or are convicted of a criminal offence.

Can I pause my insurance coverage?

Some insurance companies will let policyholders put their auto insurance policies on hold. However, to do so, you must notify your insurance provider and ensure you meet the criteria for doing so. In doing this, you may reduce your coverage to comprehensive only, which offers protection against fire, theft and vandalism, giving you peace of mind if something happens while your vehicle is parked.

How can I update my car insurance policy?

To update your insurance policy, you can either contact your insurance company directly or speak with a broker. Common changes include adding or removing a driver from your policy, adjusting your coverage levels, updating your home address, and notifying your provider that you've purchased a new vehicle.

What happens if my insurance company concludes that my car is a write-off?

A car insurance write-off means that your insurance company believes that the cost to repair your vehicle following a collision is more than what your vehicle is actually worth. In this case, they'll write the car off and provide you with a lump sum payment to replace your vehicle. If you disagree with your provider, you can file an appeal to have the decision reviewed.

Can I drive in Alberta with out-of-province insurance?

How can I update my car insurance policy?

What factors can lead to your insurance being cancelled?

What happens if my insurance company concludes that my car is a write-off?

Can I pause my insurance coverage?

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