What medical conditions have to be declared for car insurance?

If you have a health condition, you are legally required to inform your insurance provider when purchasing car insurance. So, what types of medical conditions need to be declared? Can a driver's medical condition affect their insurance premium? Stick around to find out!

Medical conditions and car insurance

While having medical conditions doesn't mean you aren't able to operate a motor vehicle, you'll still need to prove your ability to drive safely when you get your driver's licence for the first time or when you renew.

What health conditions need to be declared for car insurance?

Suffering a medical emergency is a major cause of highway accidents. Because of this, common conditions you'll need to inform your car insurance company of include the following:

Visual impairments

Visual impairments include cataracts, the use of contact lenses, glasses, double vision, night blindness, and glaucoma. With these eye conditions, you'll need to undergo regular eye tests to ensure your vision does not get worse.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy, or seizures, can happen at any time when you're driving and can cause you to lose consciousness. You'll need to confirm that you are on medication for your seizures and haven't had an epileptic episode over a certain period in order to drive.

Diabetes

Diabetes is an insulin condition that can lead to hypoglycemia, which can cause a loss of consciousness, loss of coordination, dizziness, and other symptoms. Your doctor will need to inform your provider that you are on medication and are being treated for your condition.

Neurological conditions

Neurological conditions include fainting spells, sleep apnea, excessive sleepiness, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other medical conditions that could impact your ability to maintain full control of your motor vehicle.

Physical disabilities

Physical impairments, such as those that require the use of hand controls when driving or other modifications will need to be reported to your provider to ensure your insurance plan reflects the modifications that have been made to your vehicle.

It's important to note that this is not a full list of medical conditions that you need to report. To get more information visit your province's Ministry of Transportation site.

Can my car insurance company use my medical conditions to determine my insurance premium?

No, while you do need to notify your insurance company whether you have certain medical conditions or physical impairments, they are not able to use your condition or impairment to calculate your insurance costs. Keep in mind that you'll also need to notify your provider if any modifications have been made to your vehicle, such as steering aids.

What is a medical licence suspension?

All drivers must meet certain medical standards to operate a motor vehicle to ensure they are able to drive safely while behind the wheel. The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) in all provinces mandates that medical practitioners submit a Medical Condition Report should an individual's health get worse, to the extent that they are deemed high-risk drivers.

If this occurs, your ability to drive may be suspended. If you want to continue driving, you'll need to file an appeal and undergo a medical fitness test before your licence can be reinstated.

Will a previous restricted licence lead to higher insurance premiums?

No, your insurer can't use a previous medical suspension to calculate your insurance costs. The only way an insurer can increase your costs is if you've been in an at-fault accident, are charged with a driving offence, have too many demerit points on your licence, or have unpaid fines on your account.

Can I withdraw an insurance claim?

Yes, you can withdraw an insurance claim once it has been filed. However, depending on how far along in the process you are, you may have some difficulties doing so. It's also important to note that if you are involved in a claim where you are the at-fault driver, you will not be able to withdraw a claim that has been brought against you for damages and injuries.

Can I use a different address on my car insurance?

When it comes to your plan, you may have some questions about using a different address for car insurance. Rest assured that you can have a different address on your insurance policy compared to your actual home address as there is no law that states the two need to be an exact match.

When should I call an insurance company after an accident?

Drivers often have some confusion about when to call insurance after an accident. Generally speaking, once you've exchanged information with the other drivers involved and are in a safe location, you should contact your insurance provider soon after, within the first 24 to 48 hours, to begin your claims process.

Does a DUI affect insurance rates?

Yes, a DUI will affect your insurance premium. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada. Because of this, the consequences drivers face are much more severe than a standard traffic ticket. Beyond being able to find an insurance provider willing to cover you, you could also face jail time, a license suspension, and more.

Protect yourself behind the wheel with quality car insurance

Car insurance is mandatory for all Canadian motorists. However, the type of policies and minimum coverage requirements will vary between provinces. Beyond mandatory insurance, there are also optional policies you can consider. Here's a closer look at the types of car insurance available in Canada:

Mandatory car insurance (varies by province)

These coverages consist of:

• Liability car insurance
• Uninsured automobile insurance
• Accident benefits coverage
• Direct compensation - property damage

Optional car insurance (varies by province)

These coverages consist of the following:

• Comprehensive car coverage
• Collision car coverage
• Accident forgiveness

Get affordable auto coverage with BrokerLink

At BrokerLink, we help Canadians find affordable insurance coverage. With access to different plans from some of the top insurance companies in Canada, our experienced brokers are able to customize your coverage based on your needs and budget.

Our brokers are also available to answer any questions you may have like, "What is a proof of loss form and how do I fill one out?" What are the most common car accident injuries? Can I keep my car after the insurance write-off? And more.

To work with BrokerLink, don't hesitate to visit us at one of our many locations across the country. If we're not in your neighbourhood, you can still contact us over the phone or via email! For now, get a free car insurance quote using our online quote tool.

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