Car Insurance in Hamilton, Ontario

How Are Car Insurance Rates in Hamilton Determined?

Car insurance policies vary. Your rate might be different from your friend’s rate. This is because there are many different factors insurance companies consider when determining your rate. At BrokerLink, we go through our clients' individual information in order to make sure that they receive all of the possible savings offered.

The following factors are a few of the most common that insurance companies consider when determining rates in Hamilton:

Your age

Younger drivers tend to have higher premium rates than older drivers. This is because they fall into a demographic that statistically has more accidents. As you age, your insurance rate will most likely go down.

Your driving record

Did you know that having a good driving record can actually save you money? This is because insurance providers see you as a low risk client. On the other hand, having a bad driving record can actually make your premiums go up significantly.

Where you live

The city you live in can affect the price of your premium. Even the neighbourhood and postal code can have an impact on your insurance.

The make and model of your vehicle

Some types of cars tend to be more costly to insure than others. There are many reasons for this, including the fact that some cars are more prone to theft, and some have more expensive and/or less common parts.

The level of coverage you choose

The level of coverage you choose to have on your vehicle will impact the price of your premium. Simply put, the more coverage you want, the more you will pay. However, in the long run, paying a little more for insurance can save you money if you get in an accident.

Mandatory Car Insurance in Hamilton, Ontario

Mandatory coverage is the minimum coverage that is required by law in order to drive a vehicle. This law is designed to protect you, your family and everyone else on the roads around you. This law applies whether you lease, finance or own your car. The following types of coverage are mandatory in Hamilton:

Liability

Liability insurance is an essential part of any car insurance policy. It helps to pay for other drivers’ property and bodily injuries if you’re found at fault in an accident. This coverage may also help to cover any legal fees you might incur as a result of an accident.

Accident benefits coverage

Unfortunately, costs associated with an accident don’t end right after the accident occurs. You, or the other people involved such as passengers or pedestrians, might require medical or rehabilitative attention following the accident. Accident benefits coverage will cover these costs.

Direct compensation

This coverage compensates you when you or your car is damaged in an accident where you are not at fault. It is called direct compensation because you deal directly with your insurance provider to acquire any compensation following a claim.

Uninsured automobile coverage

Not everyone is a responsible driver. Even though insurance is mandatory in Canada, some people choose to get behind the wheel without it. Uninsured automobile coverage protects you and any of your passengers if you are involved in an accident with a driver who is at-fault and is either uninsured or doesn’t have enough coverage.

Optional Car Insurance Coverage in Hamilton

The following types of coverage are not required by the law for any drivers located in Hamilton. However, many people choose to add these coverage options to their polices. Having this additional protection can provide you with more peace of mind. While there are quite a few different coverage options available, we have listed a few of the most popular down below:

Comprehensive

A car accident is not the only risk that you and your vehicle may face. You may find that your car becomes damaged due to things like fires, theft, vandalism, bad weather or even water damage. Comprehensive coverage can protect you in the event of any of those things.

Collision

Collision coverage will protect you if your car is damaged in a hit and run accident. It will also help pay for damages to your vehicle if it is involved in a collision with another driver or object.

Accident forgiveness

Everyone deserves a second chance. If you are involved in your first at-fault accident, having this coverage on your policy will help you to maintain your good driving record for as long as you stay with the same company. Accident forgiveness ensures that your premium rate won’t go up as a result of your first at-fault claim.

Waiver of depreciation

If you are in the market for a brand new vehicle, this coverage is definitely something that you should consider having on your policy. Waiver of depreciation coverage covers you for the value of your vehicle without depreciation. In the event of a theft or total loss claim, you’ll be reimbursed for the full value of the car, effective from the date when you drove it off the lot.

Get car insurance in Hamilton

We know we’ve given you a lot of information. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t despair! We’re here to help. Simply give us a call and we’ll walk you through the whole process. We’ll give you several quotes to choose from and we’ll make sure to apply any discounts you might qualify for. Don’t do it alone! Call BrokerLink today to find a great insurance plan that protects you.