Alberta Car Insurance

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Driving in Alberta is a one of a kind experience. In one province you can see mountains, forests, lakes and plains. In addition to the beautiful nature Alberta has to offer, you can also live the city life in Calgary or Edmonton. When driving in Alberta, it’s important to have the right car insurance. Car insurance in Alberta is mandatory. Not only is insurance a legal requirement – it also protects yourself, your loved ones and other drivers.

Whether you're navigating Calgary's Deerfoot Trail during rush hour, crossing the High Level Bridge in Edmonton, or exploring the Icefields Parkway on a road trip, Alberta's diverse roads require strong, tailored car insurance coverage. BrokerLink can help with that.

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

Benefits of Alberta car insurance

Car insurance is mandatory in Alberta for a reason. It offers protection to drivers, passengers, and other cars on the road. With valid auto insurance, you can be protected in a wide range of circumstances. Some of the benefits that come with purchasing Alberta car insurance can be found below.

You are protected in case of bodily injury

If you are injured in a car accident, auto insurance will come in handy. Even the most basic car insurance plans cover bodily injury in Alberta. So if you or someone else involved in the accident requires medical attention following the collision, your own insurance company will help you cover the costs of care. Specifically, your insurance provider may help pay for medical expenses not covered by your Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), such as prescription medications, rehabilitation, or physical therapy.

You are protected in the event of an accident

No matter how safely you drive or where you live in Alberta, car accidents can happen. In fact, accidents spike during the winter in Alberta, where heavy snow and icy roads lead to increased collision rates throughout the province. Having car insurance helps mitigate these seasonal risks. With Alberta auto insurance, you’ll be protected from the financial ramifications of an accident. For example, most car insurance plans will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle if it is damaged in an accident.

You are protected against theft

Depending on the auto insurance plan you choose, your Alberta vehicle may be covered for theft, which is a major problem in Canada. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), auto theft claims costs in Alberta rose by 55% between 2021 and 2023, with Edmonton experiencing the highest increase at 65%. But even though theft rates are starting to drop nationally, the CBC reports Alberta still has the highest rate of stolen vehicles per capita in the country, making comprehensive coverage essential for Alberta drivers.

Comprehensive coverage is an optional insurance coverage available to Alberta residents. This type of coverage protects drivers from all kinds of circumstances apart from collisions. Under this portion of your policy, you can be protected against damage caused by vandalism, fire, floods, and falling objects, as well as theft. This coverage is also especially valuable during Alberta’s hail season, as Calgary often ranks among Canada’s top cities for hailstorm damage, with major events costing insurers millions. In fact, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, the 2024 Calgary hailstorm resulted in nearly $2.8 billion in insured damage, making it the second-costliest insured event in Canada’s history.

You are in compliance with the law

Lastly, Alberta drivers can benefit from purchasing car insurance because it puts them in compliance with the law. As mentioned above, car insurance is compulsory in Alberta, and driving without it can result in expensive fines and jail time. Avoid these pitfalls by purchasing auto insurance that meets the minimum requirements set by the Government of Alberta.

Driving without insurance in Alberta

Since car insurance is mandatory everywhere in Alberta, driving without insurance is illegal. If caught driving without a valid policy, you could face several consequences, including fines, jail time, and a suspended license. More specifically, uninsured motorists can be fined between $2,875 and $10,000 for a first offence in Alberta. Failure to pay this fine can result in jail time ranging from 45 days to 6 months.

For a second offence, the minimum fine for driving without insurance goes up to $5,000, and the maximum fine is $20,000. Again, failure to pay this fine can result in jail time lasting anywhere between 60 days and 6 months.

Calgary Police and Alberta RCMP routinely conduct vehicle insurance checks, especially near major commuter routes like Anthony Henday Drive and Macleod Trail. In fact, a stop check performed by Evansburg RCMP found several motorists driving without proper insurance or vehicle registration over the course of a weekend in October 2023. Therefore, driving without insurance in Alberta is not worth the risk. If you are currently driving without insurance or if your existing policy is set to expire soon, purchase a policy as soon as possible. BrokerLink can help you find a policy that not only meets your needs and budget but also complies with Alberta law.

Types of auto insurance coverage in Alberta

In Alberta, all drivers need car insurance. If you’re caught driving without it, you can face serious penalties, including steep fines and a suspended license. There are different types of car insurance you can purchase in Alberta, each offering varying levels of protection. While some coverages are essential for driving, there are also additional coverages available that can provide extra protection. You might think that the cheapest car insurance possible will save you money, but if an accident occurs, you’ll be happy you opted for more coverage, as the costs associated with an accident can add up quickly. Below are the coverages you can consider.

Mandatory

Optional

This coverage will protect you if you are responsible for an accident. Some things that third party liability might cover include repair costs for any vehicles or property that might have been damaged, medical costs that result from the accident, legal fees and damages that any injured parties might be entitled to.

This coverage applies regardless of who is at fault. It will cover medical expenses that result from a car accident. The vast majority of drivers in Alberta opt for at least $1,000,000 in coverage.

Also known as no-fault insurance, direct compensation coverage will help pay for damages if you get into an accident that was not your fault. This can include injuries and damages to your vehicle. However, you will only receive coverage when you are at fault if you have collision and comprehensive coverage.

This coverage will take effect if you are involved in an accident with another vehicle or object. Collision coverage will protect your own vehicle whether you are at fault or not.

This is a step above collision coverage. It will protect you against specific damages in addition to collisions with other vehicles or objects. Examples of specified perils include fire and vandalism. This type of coverages varies, so make sure you talk to your broker about what your specific policy includes.

This type of coverage is one of the most extensive types of coverage offered in Alberta. It will cover things outside of a collision such as theft, vandalism and fire.

When you get into your first at-fault accident, accident forgiveness coverage prevents your insurance company from raising your rates after going through the claims process. It will allow you to maintain a clean driving record as you stay with the same insurance company. This is another popular type of optional coverage.

If you're buying a new car, adding this coverage to your policy is worth considering. It ensures you're covered for the full value of your vehicle without factoring in depreciation. That means if your car is stolen or totalled, you'll be reimbursed for the cost of a brand-new vehicle—not just what it's worth after wear and tear.

If you ever get into an accident and your car needs repairs, loss of use coverage has your back. While your car is in the shop, this coverage helps pay for other ways to get around—whether that's hopping on public transit, using ride shares, or renting a car. It can be a real lifesaver, especially if your car ends up being out of commission for days or even weeks.

This coverage applies regardless of who is at fault. It will cover medical expenses that result from a car accident. The vast majority of drivers in Alberta opt for at least $1,000,000 in coverage.

This coverage will take effect if you are involved in an accident with another vehicle or object. Collision coverage will protect your own vehicle whether you are at fault or not.

This type of coverage is one of the most extensive types of coverage offered in Alberta. It will cover things outside of a collision such as theft, vandalism and fire.

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Save money on Alberta car insurance with BrokerLink’s top tips and tricks

Car insurance can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. When you partner with BrokerLink, we will ensure you find a policy that doesn’t break the bank. We work tirelessly to unlock discounts on your behalf, ensuring you find the best car insurance coverage at the most affordable price. Plus, as car insurance experts, our insurance advisors are always happy to provide their best-kept secrets for saving money on auto insurance. Below is a list of BrokerLink’s top tips and tricks for finding cheap car insurance in Alberta.

Discounts

Enroll in driving school

Enrolling in an approved driving school in Alberta can save you money on your car insurance. Insurance companies know that formal driving schools produce skilled, safe drivers who are more likely to follow the rules of the road. For these reasons, they offer discounts to young drivers who can prove they graduated from an approved driving program. Since new drivers often pay the highest premiums, receiving formal instruction from a professional may be worth it from both an education and a financial perspective.

Purchase a hybrid or electric vehicle

Buying an eco-friendly vehicle may save you money on your Alberta car insurance policy. To incentivize drivers to reduce their carbon footprint, some Canadian car insurance providers offer discounts to those who drive hybrid or electric vehicles. By purchasing an electric vehicle, you could save money at both the gas pump and on car insurance.

Install winter tires on your vehicle

Alberta winters are world-renowned. Known for freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, driving in the winter is infinitely more dangerous than driving in the summer in Alberta. For this reason, insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who install winter tires on their cars. Snow tires are known for having superior capabilities like traction in winter weather. Therefore, when you equip your vehicle with them, you significantly reduce the odds of getting into an accident. Alberta insurance companies recognize this and may reward you with savings of up to 5% on your auto insurance policy.

Bundle different insurance policies

Bundling insurance policies together is another way to get cheap Alberta car insurance. The more insurance you buy from a single provider, the more likely they are to give you a discount. So if you’re also looking for homeowners insurance, commercial insurance, or insurance for leisure items like a cottage, boat, or ATV, consider finding a provider that sells multiple kinds of insurance and buying all your policies from them. Doing so can save you up to 15% per policy.

Savings Options

Increase your deductible

The higher your deductible, the lower your premium. This is true for any type of insurance. Therefore, if you’re looking to pay less for Alberta 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 save money on your Alberta car insurance policy. That said, increasing your deductible has both pros and cons. If you are considering raising your policy deductible, speak with a BrokerLink insurance advisor to learn more about the possible impacts of this decision.

Choose annual over monthly payments

One quick way to save money on Alberta car insurance is by paying for your policy annually rather than monthly. Monthly or quarterly insurance payments almost always cost more down the road as insurance companies tack on administrative fees for each payment.

Insure multiple vehicles together

If someone else in your household owns a vehicle, such as your spouse or adult child, insuring them together can save you money. Insuring multiple vehicles with the same insurance provider may result in a discount of between 15% and 20% per policy.

What factors determine Alberta car insurance rates?

Alberta drivers might be surprised to learn how many factors are used to determine Alberta car insurance rates. Insurance companies throughout Canada consider a wide range of details when calculating insurance premiums. Some of these factors are within a driver’s control, like their claims history or the vehicle they drive, while others are not, such as their age or gender. Alberta drivers might find it useful to understand which details matter when it comes to Alberta car insurance rates. Below is a list of some of the most important factors impacting the cost of auto insurance in Alberta.

Driving history

The first and most important factor used to determine one’s insurance premium is driving history. Driving history is a combination of a person’s driving experience and driving record. Having ample driving experience is usually a positive attribute. It is a lack of driving experience that raises the car insurance premiums for young drivers.

Driving experience will only work to your advantage if it is coupled with a clean driving record. If you drive the speed limit and obey the rules of the road, you are likely to have a clean driving record, and the insurance company may reward you accordingly.

However, if you frequently speed, drive recklessly, or drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your driving record may be poor. Drivers with records that are filled with infractions, speeding tickets, collisions, and DUIs typically pay more for car insurance. Therefore, the best thing you can do to reduce how much you pay for Alberta car insurance is to drive safely and responsibly.

Age

From an insurance company’s perspective, there is a direct correlation between age and risk level, which is why age is such an important factor in determining auto insurance rates. Insurance companies believe that the younger a driver is, the less driving experience they have, and the greater risk they pose on the road. This is why new drivers in Alberta often pay the most for auto insurance. Another age group impacted is the elderly, with seniors often paying higher rates for car insurance in the province.

Location

Location is another factor that can impact your Alberta car insurance premium. That is why, when calculating your auto insurance rate, an insurance provider will ask for your address. Where you drive your vehicle indicates your risk level.

Drivers who live in populous metropolitan areas, such as Calgary or Edmonton, are more likely to get into accidents because there is more traffic on the road. In fact, 2024 marked the highest number of fatal road collisions in Calgary in over a decade, with 29 fatal traffic collisions, according to the CBC.

On the other hand, drivers who live in rural parts of the province with less traffic are considered less likely to get into an accident and may receive a reduced insurance rate because of it.

Finally, if you live or work in a part of Alberta prone to climate-related incidents, your insurance premium may also be affected. For example, if you spend a lot of time along Hailstorm Alley, which the IBC says unofficially runs from High River up to central Alberta, insurance companies may factor in that you're more likely to file a comprehensive claim for hail damage.

Vehicle make, model, and year

The details of the vehicle you drive can also influence how much your Alberta car insurance policy costs. When determining your premium, an insurance provider will ask for the make, model, and year of your vehicle. Generally speaking, newer, more expensive cars cost more to insure. This is because if such cars are damaged in an accident or stolen, they would cost more to replace or repair.

As we mentioned earlier, auto theft is a major concern in Alberta. According to the Équité Association’s 2024 Auto Theft Trend Report, 28% of all vehicles stolen in the province were from 2017 or newer. This is a shift from previous years, when older vehicles, particularly trucks, were the main targets. Now, auto thieves in Alberta are turning their focus toward newer, higher-value vehicles.

That said, if your newer or more expensive vehicle has built-in anti-theft systems or extra safety features, it may help lower your premium. But in most cases, older or more affordable vehicles tend to be cheaper to insure than luxury or high-performance models.

How frequently you drive your vehicle

How much time you spend on the road is another factor that can influence Alberta car insurance costs. If you're regularly commuting long distances on major highways like Highway 2 between Calgary and Edmonton, Highway 63 to Fort McMurray, or Highway 1 out toward Banff and Canmore, your risk of being in an accident increases, especially if you're spending some of that time driving at night. That higher risk can lead to a higher premium.

On the other hand, if you’re more of a weekend driver or just use your car for short errands around town, your chances of getting into an accident are lower, and your insurance rate could be, too. If you're putting fewer kilometres on your vehicle than the average driver, let your broker know. In many cases, low-mileage drivers may qualify for discounted rates.

Marital status

Last but not least, a driver’s marital status can impact their Alberta car insurance rate. Data suggests that married people are more responsible and financially stable, which insurance companies may take into consideration when calculating insurance costs.

Please note that car insurance companies are responsible for determining insurance rates. Insurance brokerages have no say in your insurance premium. However, brokerages like BrokerLink can ensure you’re receiving the best coverage at the most competitive rate. We can also make you aware of discounts you didn’t know you were eligible for and shop around on your behalf. To get started with an insurance broker in Alberta, contact BrokerLink today.

Tips for young drivers in Alberta, Canada

Learning to drive is no easy task. After all, driving is a skill and all skills require time and patience to master. If you’re a new driver in Alberta, check out the tips below.

Slow down

Our top piece of advice is to slow down. The slower you drive, the less likely you are to get into a collision. Always drive the speed limit and never rush when accelerating, braking, turning, parking, or changing lanes. There are even certain situations where we advise driving below the speed limit. These include when driving in poor weather like fog, rain, or snow, at night when visibility is reduced, or through a construction zone, or in an area with lots of pedestrians.

Be aware of your surroundings

Part of driving smart is about being aware of your surroundings. This means maintaining awareness of all cars, pedestrians, and potential road hazards. When you are aware, you decrease your chances of getting into an accident. One way to maintain awareness of your surroundings is to frequently check your rear-view and side mirrors. In addition, when looking ahead of you, don’t hyperfocus on the car in front of you. Rather, scan all lanes.

Enrol in driving school

Enrolling in an Alberta driving school can be a valuable tool for new drivers. Approved driving programs can teach you the rules of the road while providing practical in-car lessons. Plus, driving school allows you to learn from a seasoned professional and to practice driving with someone other than your family members. Finally, completing a recognized driving course might make you eligible for a discount on your Alberta car insurance policy.

Leave ample space

Similar to driving slowly, leaving ample space between you and other vehicles on the road will decrease your odds of getting into an accident. When navigating busy highways, like those around Calgary or Edmonton, always leave extra space between your vehicle and those around you. Experts typically recommend a distance of two car lengths, though this distance should be doubled when travelling at high speeds or in inclement weather. Leaving space not only gives you more room to manoeuvre your vehicle out of the way of danger but it also gives you more time to stop suddenly without hitting another vehicle or a pedestrian. For example, if you are rear-ended at an intersection, this extra space will prevent you from bumping the car in front of you, causing even greater damage.

Minimize distractions

Our fifth and final tip for new drivers in Alberta is to minimize distractions on the road. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of collisions in Canada. Ensure your own safety by keeping possible distractions to a minimum. Examples of common distractions are texting, programming your GPS, eating, drinking, and smoking. In essence, anything that takes your attention away from the road is a distraction that should be avoided at all costs. So finish your drink or snack, set your GPS, tune the radio to a station you like, and put your phone somewhere you can’t access it before putting the vehicle in drive.

Why work with an Alberta insurance broker?

Partnering with a reputable insurance broker is one of the smartest decisions you can make as a driver in Alberta. When you partner with a broker, you’ll have a car insurance expert at your fingertips, working day and night to find an Alberta car insurance policy that meets your needs. Plus, you can save time and money by enlisting the help of a broker. Keep reading to learn more about what an Alberta insurance broker can offer you.

Brokers work independently

Did you know that Alberta insurance brokers work independently of insurance companies? That’s right, BrokerLink does not work for an insurance company, which allows us to focus on our customers’ needs. Our expert insurance advisors put the customer above all else, taking the time to understand their needs, lifestyle, and budget. Since we work independently, you can always count on us to offer unbiased, objective advice on the best policy for you and your family.

Brokers do the work for you

Yet another reason to work with an Alberta insurance broker is that they do the work for you. From the moment you contact BrokerLink, you will be assigned a dedicated insurance advisor who will work tirelessly to obtain quotes, compare coverage options, and unlock discounts on your behalf. Meanwhile, you can sit back, relax, and spend your free time exactly how you want to be spending it. We will get in touch with multiple policy options for you to choose from in no time.

BrokerLink brokers are car insurance experts

BrokerLink has been in business since 1991, which means we have over 30 years of experience matching Alberta drivers with quality car insurance policies. We are eager to share our resources and expertise with our customers.

How to get car insurance in Alberta

Finding the right car insurance coverage for you couldn’t be easier - thanks to BrokerLink! Follow the steps below to find a competitive and affordable Alberta auto insurance policy.

1. Contact an insurance broker

The first step to finding the best coverage at a competitive rate is calling an insurance broker. When you contact BrokerLink, we will take the time to get to know you and learn about your unique circumstances.

2. We shop around for you

Shopping around is key to finding the right insurance policy, but it can be tedious. Luckily, when you contact a BrokerLink broker, we will shop around on your behalf. We will contact Canada’s top insurance providers to determine which one has the best car insurance rate for you.

3. You get a great rate

All BrokerLink insurance advisors are licensed insurance experts. This means we know where to find the best deals. We will give you a few policy options to choose from and you can pick which one’s right for you.

Contact BrokerLink for a free Alberta auto insurance quote

Still have questions about Alberta car insurance? Do you want to learn more about how much car insurance costs in Alberta? BrokerLink is here. Contact us by phone, email, or in person at one of our many locations throughout Alberta, and one of our insurance advisors will be pleased to assist you.

You can also request a free car insurance quote using our online calculator. After providing some basic information about yourself, your vehicle, and the type of coverage you require, you will receive an accurate and competitive quote. It’s that simple! So what are you waiting for? Begin your Alberta auto insurance journey by contacting BrokerLink today.

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FAQs

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What is the minimum car insurance required by Alberta’s laws?

By law, Alberta drivers are required to have third party liability and accident benefits coverage. Most drivers have at least $1,000,000 in coverage, and many opt for more.

In Alberta, what does a basic car insurance policy cover?

If you go with the average coverage a broker would recommend, you will be covered for damage to your vehicle, damage you might cause to another vehicle, costs associated with any injuries that take place and the cost of any liability action taken against you. However, every policy is different. Be sure to talk to your broker and review your insurance documents to see what is included in your policy.

What areas in Alberta have the highest car insurance rates?

Cities like Calgary and Edmonton tend to have the highest premiums in Alberta due to higher traffic volumes, more collisions, and increased vehicle theft. When it comes to calculating your car insurance rates, your postal code matters, and living in a dense or high-claim area can drive your rate up.

Does living in Calgary or Edmonton increase my auto insurance premium?

Generally, yes. Urban areas like Calgary and Edmonton see more collisions, thefts, and insurance claims, which can push premiums higher. Living downtown or in certain postal codes within these cities may also affect your rate.

Is winter tire use mandatory in Alberta for car insurance discounts?

No, it’s not mandatory in Alberta, but they are strongly recommended. Also, some insurance companies offer discounts on your premiums if you use winter tires every year. If you use winter tires annually, be sure to let your insurance company or broker know.

Does Alberta car insurance cover wildlife collisions?

Yes, as long as you have comprehensive coverage. Wildlife collisions in Alberta are common on highways, especially in rural areas. Comprehensive coverage can help with repair costs if you hit a deer, moose, or other animal.

Can I get additional coverage on top of my basic Alberta car insurance policy?

Yes, you can get additional coverage. Some additional coverages to consider include collision, specified perils and comprehensive.

Is car insurance mandatory in Alberta?

Yes, car insurance is mandatory in the entire province of Alberta. Auto insurance is provincially regulated, and the Government of Alberta has made it compulsory. This means that no matter where you live in the province, from Calgary to Edmonton to Red Deer, you will need a valid car insurance policy to get behind the wheel. In fact, to register your vehicle in the province, you’ll need to show proof of an up-to-date car insurance policy.

Please note that a valid car insurance policy is one that meets the minimum requirements set by the province. For example, in Alberta, all drivers must carry a minimum of $200,000 in third liability coverage at all times. Policies must also include accident benefits coverage, uninsured automobile coverage, and direct compensation coverage.

How does Alberta’s hail season affect my comprehensive car insurance?

Hail can cause serious damage to your vehicle. If you have comprehensive coverage, you're protected for hail-related claims. Alberta’s frequent summer hailstorms, especially in areas like Calgary and Airdrie, make adding this coverage a smart choice for Alberta drivers.

Can I get insurance coverage for wildfires or flood damage in Alberta?

Yes, but it depends on the type of coverage you have. According to the government of Alberta, comprehensive coverage usually covers wildfire and flood damage to your vehicle in Alberta. Check your policy or contact your insurance broker to find out if you have this coverage. With Alberta’s severe weather and natural disaster risk, it’s certainly worth having that protection.

Are premiums higher in rural Alberta than in urban areas?

Not usually. In fact, rural areas often have lower premiums because there's less traffic and fewer claims. However, rates can vary depending on local risks, such as wildlife collisions or access to emergency services.