ATV insurance in Ontario

What is ATV insurance in Ontario?

ATV insurance is a type of Ontario car insurance designed specifically to protect drivers of all-terrain vehicles. All-terrain vehicles, or quads, are motorized vehicles designed for off-road use. These types of vehicles typically have four, six, or eight tires, each of which has low pressure to increase traction on rugged terrain. As with any auto insurance policy, the purpose of ATV insurance is to protect the driver, the vehicle, and other drivers on the road. That is why you will find that ATV insurance policies are very similar to auto insurance policies in Ontario. They contain the mandatory coverage types, such as liability insurance, and can also have optional coverage, like comprehensive or collision coverage. Thus, depending on your policy, your ATV insurance plan can be protected against a whole host of risks, including but not limited to theft, property damage, bodily harm, legal claims, and more. Please note that ATV insurance is designed for a wide range of ATVs. Utility ATVs, primarily used for commercial purposes, sport ATVs for adventure and thrill-seeking purposes, and youth ATVs intended for young riders can all benefit from ATV insurance.

ATV coverage for Ontario drivers

You probably know that car insurance is mandatory throughout Ontario. But you may be wondering if ATV insurance is also mandatory. In Ontario, you must purchase ATV insurance if you plan to drive your ATV on public roads or public property. Thus, the only situation where you do not need to purchase insurance for your ATV is if you exclusively drive it on private property. However, even then, having protection for your ATV is still recommended. Below is a list of mandatory coverage types that are not only strongly suggested but are mandatory for all ATV owners in Ontario who drive their off-road vehicles in public spaces:

Third party liability coverage

Liability insurance, also known as third party liability coverage, offers financial protection in the event that you cause an accident while driving your ATV. In this scenario, someone else involved in the at-fault accident could sue you. Thankfully, with liability insurance, your provider will cover any related costs up to the coverage limit. Such costs may include legal fees, medical bills, property damage repair bills, etc.

Accident benefits coverage

Accident benefits coverage can be claimed if you are involved in an accident in your ATV and someone is injured as a result. For example, if you hurt yourself after accidentally driving into a fence, it is the accident benefits portion of your ATV insurance policy that will cover the cost of any medical attention not paid for by your health insurance plan. Examples of medical expenses that accident benefits may pay for include prescription drugs, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.

Direct compensation - property damage coverage

Direct compensation - property damage coverage is another key component of ATV insurance in Ontario. This type of coverage is designed to protect policyholders against the cost of repairs. If property damage occurs as the result of a collision, such as your ATV being dented, you can receive a payout to cover the cost of the repair under the direct compensation - property damage coverage portion of your policy. Please note that this type of insurance only comes into play if you did not cause the accident.

Uninsured automobile coverage

Uninsured automobile coverage is one last type of coverage that is important for ATV drivers. It is useful anytime you get into an accident with a driver who does not have sufficient auto insurance to cover you or does not have any auto insurance whatsoever. It also safeguards ATV drivers against hit and runs, as uninsured automobile coverage can reimburse policyholders for damage inflicted by an anonymous or unidentified driver.

Extra protection for Ontario ATVs

While the four types of coverage listed above may be mandatory depending on your circumstances and are certainly important to have, they may not be enough for all drivers. For example, basic ATV insurance like this does not include off-roading coverage, which could be worthwhile if you frequently drive your vehicle on rugged terrain. To protect yourself and your ATV in a broader range of situations, consider adding the following optional coverages to your ATV insurance policy.

Collision coverage

Collision coverage is a type of optional coverage that goes beyond direct compensation - property damage coverage. Like the latter, it also deals with property damage. However, collision coverage can reimburse policyholders for the cost of repairs, regardless of whether they caused the accident or not. Collision insurance can also cover drivers in the event that they get into an accident with a car, or even a grounded object or animal. It is worth noting that if another driver was responsible for the accident and the subsequent damage to your ATV, they may be on the hook for the cost of repairs, which would be paid for under the third party liability portion of their policy.

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive coverage will protect your ATV from all kinds of damage while stationary. Unlike the other types of coverage listed above, comprehensive coverage does not protect against damage from collisions. Instead, it protects against damage while your ATV is parked. For example, if your ATV was stolen or vandalized, or if a tree branch fell on it and damaged it, you could receive a payout from your insurer under the comprehensive coverage portion of your Ontario ATV insurance policy. Please note that you will only be covered if the damage occurs due to a named peril listed in your policy. Commonly named perils are fire, theft, windstorms, water damage, and falling objects, among others.

Accident forgiveness coverage

One more type of optional ATV insurance coverage popular among ATV drivers is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness is additional coverage that can be added to your ATV 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 and eligibility varies by province.

How are Ontario ATV insurance premiums calculated?

ATV insurance premiums in Ontario are calculated in a way that is similar to car insurance. What we mean by this is that there is no set rate for ATV insurance in Ontario. Instead, rates are individually assigned by insurance companies based on several factors that are unique to you. Some factors that come into play include your insurance claims history, the value of your ATV, your age, and more. Below is a list of factors that you can expect an insurance company in Ontario to consider when determining your ATV insurance premium:

• Your driving record
• The cost of your ATV
• Your age
• Your gender
• The type, model, features, horsepower, and top speed of the ATV
• Past claims
• Average mileage
• Driving experience
• Insurance history
• The deductible amounts you choose
• The coverage types and limits you choose
• Regulatory bodies
• How you use your ATV (personal vs. commercial, daily vs. weekends only vs. occasional use)

Learn more about the cost of ATV insurance in Ontario by contacting BrokerLink. We can explain in greater detail how insurance companies calculate rates and even provide you with a free ATV insurance quote. Please note that insurance brokers like BrokerLink do not set rates, though we can help you shop around for coverage and give you tips on how to save money on ATV insurance.

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How to keep Ontario ATV insurance rates low

ATV insurance should never break the bank. BrokerLink can ensure it doesn’t by comparing policies from different providers to find you the most competitive price for your policy. Our team of experts is also happy to inform customers about ATV insurance discounts and provide them with tips on how to save money on ATV insurance. Continue reading for a brief introduction to BrokerLink’s top strategies for saving money on ATV insurance in Ontario:

Keep your ATV secure at all times

If you want to qualify for a lower ATV insurance rate, keep your ATV safe by parking it somewhere that is locked and covered overnight. We also recommend taking the added step of installing an anti-theft device on your ATV, which can significantly reduce the odds of your ATV being stolen. Never store your keys on or in your ATV, as this can make it easier for it to be stolen.

Choose your ATV carefully

Just as the type of car you drive will impact your auto insurance rates, the type of ATV you drive will also affect your ATV insurance rates. Typically, the safer your ATV and the lowers its horsepower and top speed, the cheaper your ATV insurance premium will be. Conversely, ATVs with high speed capabilities will translate to more expensive premiums in Ontario. It is always a good idea to obtain a quote or insurance rate check whenever you are considering buying an ATV, contact your broker to get a quote at any step of the process.

Shop around before buying an ATV insurance policy

Shopping around is crucial, especially if you are looking for the best price for your Ontario ATV insurance policy. To shop around, research the top insurance companies near you, contact them, and request free quotes from each. If you don’t have the time or patience to do this yourself, ask a BrokerLink insurance advisor to do it for you.

Consult with an ATV insurance specialist at BrokerLink

ATV insurance specialists are great resources to have at your disposal when shopping for ATV insurance, and thankfully, BrokerLink has lots of them. We have an entire team of licensed ATV insurance brokers who will take the time to understand your insurance needs and budget before going out and finding you affordable coverage.

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Pick high deductible amounts

If finding a cheap ATV insurance policy is a top priority, consider your deductible amounts carefully. The lower they are, the more expensive your policy will be. Whereas the higher they are, the cheaper your policy will be. So if you can afford to pay a larger sum in the event of a claim, choosing high deductibles will pay off in the short term because it will lead to a reduced premium.

Take an ATV safety course

Learn the ropes of driving an ATV while earning a discount on ATV insurance by taking an ATV safety course. These courses teach students the rules of the road, as well as defensive driving tactics so you know how to handle yourself in challenging situations. By showing proof that you completed an ATV safety course, you can become eligible for an ATV insurance discount.

Combine ATV insurance with another type of insurance

Try combining or bundling insurance policies if you want to save money on multiple policies at once. To be eligible for an insurance bundle, all you typically have to do is purchase more than one policy at the same time. For this reason, we recommend waiting until you need to buy another insurance product, like home insurance or car insurance. By buying them alongside your ATV insurance plan, you can save big on every type of insurance you buy.

Driving tips for new and old ATV drivers

Keep yourself and others safe by reviewing the safe driving tips below. Designed specifically for ATV drivers, adopting the following habits can help you become a more responsible driver and minimize the odds of an accident:

• Buy an insurance policy for your ATV.
• Wear heavy-duty protective gear, like a helmet and goggles, whenever you're driving your ATV.
• Read through your ATV manufacturer’s recommendations and never exceed the load or passenger limits.
• Check the weather forecast and refrain from driving your ATV in inclement weather.
• Drive extra slowly and cautiously when driving on a public road.
• Do not drink and drive.
• Be sure to keep your licence and registration on you at all times.
• Look out for road hazards, such as wildlife.
• Slow down when driving at night and at high speeds, such as on highways.
• Keep a first-aid kit and flares in your ATV in case of emergency.

We’re in your community

BrokerLink has insurance solutions for all Ontario residents. Whether you are looking to insure your ATV, car, motorcycle, pet, home, or business, BrokerLink is here to help. We love connecting with our Ontario customers because community has always been and will continue to be a top priority.

Contact us

At Ontario BrokerLink, we’re here to help you with any insurance needs you may have. Whether it’s insuring your home, car, business, recreational items, or pets, let us help you find the best coverage possible. We can also help with renewing car insurance, ATV insurance, home insurance, and more.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any of our Ontario locations. 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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ATV insurance Ontario FAQs

Do I need to buy ATV insurance in Ontario?

All ATV drivers in Ontario could benefit from ATV insurance, but not all are required to purchase it. You're only legally required to purchase ATV coverage if you drive your ATV on public roads or public property. In these circumstances, your ATV insurance policy must meet the province’s minimum coverage requirements, which is the same for car insurance, i.e. third party liability insurance, accident benefits insurance, direct compensation - property damage insurance, and uninsured automobile insurance.

Does Ontario ATV insurance protect against theft?

Your Ontario ATV insurance policy will only protect you against theft if it features comprehensive coverage, and if theft is a named peril under the comprehensive coverage portion of your policy. Since comprehensive coverage is optional, not all ATV insurance policies include it. However, this is the only way to be covered in the event that your ATV is stolen. Otherwise, you would be on the hook for replacing the stolen ATV on your own.

Where can I buy insurance for my ATV in Ontario?

You can buy insurance for your Ontario ATV at insurance companies or through an insurance broker. Both will help you find coverage that meets your needs. Both can also give you a complimentary ATV insurance quote to give you a better idea of how much your policy will cost.

Can ATVs be driven on all public roads in Ontario?

No. Even if you purchase ATV insurance, ATVs are not permitted on all public roads in Ontario. You will need to do some independent research to find out which roads ATVs are allowed on. You can contact the Ontario Ministry of Transportation for a detailed breakdown. Please note that some ATVs may be permitted on the shoulders of roads but not on the roads themselves. Further, when crossing public roads, always make sure to cross at the designated trail crossings.

Does my Ontario driving record impact my ATV insurance premium?

Yes. An insurance company will look at your driving record when calculating your ATV insurance premium. The cleaner it is, the cheaper your rate will be. However, if it is full of driving infractions, like accidents and traffic tickets, you can expect to pay more for your insurance policy. That said, your driving record is just one of several factors that influence premiums, like age, gender, location, and more.

Do I need to have a driver’s licence to drive an ATV and buy insurance in Ontario?

Yes, you are legally required to have a valid driver’s licence if you want to drive an ATV in Ontario. Specifically, you must have no less than a G2 or M2 licence. Note that even with a valid licence, ATVs are not permitted on all Ontario roads, so you will need to research which public roads allow ATVs beforehand. Since a driver’s licence is mandatory if you want to drive an ATV in Ontario, it is also required to purchase ATV insurance. Be prepared to provide a copy of your licence when purchasing insurance.

What types of ATVs can ATV insurance cover?

ATV insurance can cover a wide range of off-road vehicles. These include utility, sport, and youth ATVs. However, coverage can also protect quads, UTVs, 4-wheelers, 6-wheelers, 8-wheelers, and side by sides, among others. To find out if your ATV is eligible for coverage, reach out to an insurance professional in your area.