Car Insurance in Ottawa

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Ottawa is home to a wide range of drivers, from government workers commuting downtown on the 417, to students at Carleton University or the University of Ottawa, to families living in Barrhaven or Kanata.

In fact, according to Statistics Canada's 2021 Census, Ottawa is home to more than 1 million people, with more than 80% of residents above driving age. With that many people potentially on the road, it's no wonder that Ottawa saw an average of 54 recorded collisions a day in 2024, according to the Ottawa Police Service. With that kind of risk, it's essential to have the right auto insurance coverage for your protection. Are you looking to buy affordable car insurance in Ottawa? Ask an insurance broker in Ottawa today! One of our friendly and licensed insurance brokers can help you find any type of coverage you’re looking for. Find out more about our Ottawa auto insurance services below.

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What is Ottawa car insurance?

Ottawa isn’t just the nation’s capital; it’s a city where driving is shaped by government commutes, student traffic, and cross-provincial trips into Gatineau. Car insurance here reflects that unique mix. Every driver is required to carry basic auto insurance, but the exact coverage you need depends on how you use your vehicle.

Maybe you’re a civil servant driving through downtown congestion every morning, a Carleton or uOttawa student learning to drive in winter for the first time, or a family who takes regular weekend trips up to the Gatineau Hills. Each situation comes with its own risks, from sudden snow squalls off the Ottawa River to bilingual road signs and different driving rules across the provincial border.

Car insurance in Ottawa offers a policy package that's designed to take these realities into account. It combines the mandatory protections every Ontario driver needs with optional add-ons that give you more confidence in a city where urban congestion, cross-provincial travel, and unpredictable weather are part of everyday life.

Why do you need car insurance in Ottawa?

In Ottawa, having auto insurance is mandatory, and the province has some of the harshest penalties for uninsured driving in the country. But beyond the legal side, coverage is what protects you when local roads throw something unexpected your way.

The fact is that Ottawa drivers have seen it all. One season it’s snow piling up faster than the plows can clear it, the next it’s freezing rain turning the streets into ice rinks or summer storms flooding intersections. Add in construction delays downtown, stop-and-go traffic on the Queensway, squeezing through narrow streets in the Glebe, or commuting out to Barrhaven, and you get a city where every trip has its own challenges.

Having the right car insurance in Ottawa is what helps keep those daily surprises from becoming financial headaches. Contact BrokerLink today, and we’ll help you find a cheap car insurance policy that meets Ontario’s requirements while also fitting the way you actually drive in and around Ottawa.

Types of auto insurance coverage in Ottawa, Ontario

In Ottawa, the FSRA requires all drivers to carry third-party liability, accident benefits, and uninsured motorist coverage. Without these, your auto insurance policy isn’t legally valid. On top of that, you can purchase several optional coverages for added peace of mind, such as collision or comprehensive.

Most car insurance policies in Ottawa include a mix of mandatory and optional coverage types. From busy downtown traffic to wintery roads in suburban neighbourhoods, Ottawa’s driving conditions can be unpredictable, so having the right mix of coverage matters. Here’s a breakdown of the mandatory coverages in Ottawa, plus some popular optional add-ons that could help protect you and your vehicle.

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This is one of the core components of every Ottawa auto insurance policy. If you cause a crash that results in injuries or damage to someone else’s property, third-party liability coverage can help pay for medical bills, repair costs, and even legal fees. In Ontario, drivers are legally required to carry at least $200,000 in liability coverage, though many opt for higher limits for more protection.

Accidents can happen to anyone. That’s why accident benefits coverage is mandatory in Ottawa. It helps cover medical expenses, rehab, and even income replacement after a collision, whether you were at fault or not. It also applies to passengers and pedestrians involved in the crash.

Uninsured automobile coverage protects you and your passengers if you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have insurance, doesn't have enough insurance, or if you are in a hit-and-run. It helps cover injury-related expenses and vehicle damage when the at-fault party isn’t able to pay.

If you’re in a collision that wasn’t your fault, DCPD (no-fault insurance) makes it easier to get repairs done. You’ll work with your own insurance company to handle the claim and get your car fixed quickly, instead of going through the other driver’s insurance company.

With Ottawa averaging over 220 cm of snowfall per year, increasing the risk of wintertime fender-benders, collision insurance can give Ottawa drivers the peace of mind they deserve. Collision coverage helps pay for repairs if your car is damaged after hitting another vehicle or object, or if your car flips over, no matter who caused the accident. It’s a popular add-on for Ottawa drivers who want extra peace of mind.

Comprehensive coverage covers damage not caused by a collision, such as fire, falling branches, hail, water damage, vandalism and theft. If your car’s parked outside or you live in an area where these risks are more common, it’s worth strongly considering.

One more type of optional car insurance coverage popular among Ottawa drivers 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.

A waiver of depreciation ensures that if your vehicle is written off or stolen, you’ll be reimbursed for the full value of the car, without factoring in depreciation. This is for Ottawa motorists who have just bought a new car.

If your vehicle ends up in the shop after an accident, loss of use coverage helps with transportation costs while you wait. Whether you take public transit, grab a rideshare, or rent a car, this extra coverage can help you maintain your day-to-day life.

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Ways to save money on Ottawa car insurance

Statistics Canada revealed in a recent study that insurance rates jumped in 2024 for all of Canada, reaching higher than pre-pandemic levels, with Ontario being one of two provinces with the highest rates currently. As of October 2024, the FSRA reported the average premium for Ontario to be just over $2,000, up 10.5% from the year before. Rising repair costs and increased vehicle thefts have contributed to these higher auto insurance premiums, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC).

Car insurance shouldn’t drain your wallet. At BrokerLink, we’re here to help you find coverage that fits your life and your budget. Our Ottawa insurance experts work with top insurance providers to track down competitive rates and smart savings opportunities. Below are some of our favourite ways to help Ottawa drivers save on car insurance:

Discounts

Bundle different insurance policies

If you have more than one type of insurance (e.g., home, tenant, or even a boat or ATV), bundling them under one provider can help unlock savings of up to 15% per policy.

Insure multiple vehicles together

If you have more than one vehicle in your household (e.g., spouse's car, motorcycle, classic car), you can combine them under the same policy, and you could save up to 15–20%. It’s a great way for families or couples to keep costs low.

Install winter tires on your vehicle

With Ottawa’s icy winters, winter tires aren’t just a good idea for safety. Many Ottawa insurance companies offer up to 5% discount for using winter tires between November and April. Just be sure to let them know you use them.

Buy an electric vehicle

Many car insurance companies across Ontario offer discounts to drivers of hybrid or electric vehicles. Purchasing a green vehicle could save you up to 10% on your car insurance premiums.

Enrol in driving school

If you’re a new or young driver in Ottawa, completing a government-approved driving course can lead to lower premiums. Since new drivers often pay the highest premiums, receiving formal instruction from a professional may be worth it for both educational and financial reasons.

Savings Options

Increase your deductible

If you're willing to take on a little more risk, bumping your car insurance deductible from $500 to $1,000 (or more) could help lower your premium, as it means insurance companies have to pay out less money in the event of a claim. Just make sure it’s an amount you can afford if you ever need to make a claim.

Choose annual over monthly payments

You can also save money on car insurance in Ottawa by paying annually for your policy rather than monthly. Paying monthly almost always costs more as insurance companies add administrative fees for each payment.

Review your coverage annually

Insurance rates change often, so it’s a good idea to review your coverage every year before your renewal date. If you notice that your rate has gone up, reach out to BrokerLink, and we can help you shop around to see if there’s a better deal out there.

Work with an Ottawa insurance broker

At BrokerLink, we work for you. That means we compare Ottawa car insurance quotes across multiple providers to find you the best rate for the coverage you need. Our Ottawa brokers know the local roads, weather risks, and driving habits, so they’ll tailor your policy to fit your lifestyle.

What insurance companies consider when determining Ottawa car insurance premiums

Car insurance premiums in Ottawa are influenced by various factors, including your driving history, vehicle type, and local risk factors. However, because insurance companies in Ottawa each have their own risk-calculation formula to determine what a customer’s premium will be, no two Ottawa insurance policies or even quotes are the same. Here's an overview of just some of the key factors that insurance providers consider for Ottawa drivers:

Your driving record

A clean driving record can lead to lower insurance premiums. In Ottawa, impaired driving incidents have been on the rise. According to Ottawa Police, in 2023, 885 individuals were charged with impaired driving-related offences, up from 724 in 2022. As of April 2024, 260 drivers had already been charged in the first four months of the year.

Maintaining a record free of such infractions can positively impact your insurance rates. Insurance companies often reward drivers for having driving records free of traffic convictions, collisions, or impaired-driving charges.

The type of vehicle you drive

The make, model, and year of your vehicle also affect insurance costs. Luxury or high-performance vehicles typically incur higher premiums due to higher repair costs and purchase prices.

Also, according to CTV News, in 2024, Ottawa reported an average of four vehicle thefts per day, totalling approximately 1,460 thefts for the year. High theft rates can lead to increased insurance costs for certain vehicle models.

So, if your vehicle appears on Équité Association’s list of the top 10 most stolen cars in Ontario, such as a Lexus RS or Toyota Highlander, or if you drive a high-end sports car or luxury vehicle, your insurance premiums will likely be higher to reflect the increased risk.

Where you live and work

In 2024, Ottawa Police recorded 19,777 collisions and revealed that the intersection of Hunt Club Road and Riverside Drive had the highest number of recorded collisions. Additionally, Ottawa experienced an average congestion level of 26% in 2024, up from 24% in 2023, indicating increased traffic density.

With nearly 20,000 collisions reported in 2024, insurance companies may see Ottawa as a higher-risk city, meaning higher premiums to help mitigate that risk. Plus, Ottawa’s rising congestion level means more time spent on the road and a greater chance of fender benders or major accidents.

But while urban environments like Ottawa typically mean higher rates than for those living in more rural parts of Ontario, it can also mean different rates for different neighbourhoods in Ottawa, as well. For instance, drivers in the downtown core or along major routes like Bank Street or the Queensway may face higher premiums due to heavier traffic and greater collision risk.

Meanwhile, those living in quieter suburban areas like Barrhaven, Orleans, or Kanata may benefit from lower rates thanks to less congestion, fewer accidents, and reduced risk of theft.

Your chosen coverage levels

Ontario mandates that all drivers carry a minimum of $200,000 in third-party liability coverage. This includes drivers in Ottawa. However, many drivers opt for higher coverage limits, like $1 or $2 million, for added protection in case of an at-fault collision.

On top of that, many Ottawa drivers also include additional protections like collision and comprehensive coverage on their policies, especially considering the potential costs associated with vehicle repairs and replacements. In fact, according to Statistics Canada, the cost of vehicle parts, repairs, and maintenance rose by 22.3% between December 2019 and December 2024 in Canada, and the price of new vehicles increased by 61.5%.

Want help finding affordable car insurance in Ottawa? Reach out to Ottawa BrokerLink. We’d love to help you start saving today!

Driving risks in Ottawa

Navigating Ottawa’s roads means dealing with a unique mix of urban challenges, such as rush‑hour traffic, frequent construction, weather extremes, and higher theft rates, all of which affect both your driving experience and your insurance needs. Here's what to keep in mind about driving in Ottawa:

Ottawa traffic factors

In 2024, Ottawa Police Services (OPS) recorded:

19,777 motor vehicle collisions
18 fatalities
Over 2,000 hit-and-run incidents in parking lots

The most common collision type was:

Rear-end collisions, particularly on Tuesdays at 9:00 a.m.

The worst intersection for collisions was:

Hunt Club Road and Riverside Drive (96 incidents)

According to Statistics Canada, the average one-way commute in Ottawa for 2024 was 26.1 minutes, up 13% since 2022. That’s a lot of time on the road, especially when you factor in traffic congestion on key routes like Highway 417, Riverside Drive, and Hunt Club Road, where collisions are more common. The fact of the matter is that the more time you spend in traffic, the greater your risk of an accident, which is something insurance companies definitely consider when setting your car insurance rate.

Construction is another constant for Ottawa drivers. Between the ongoing LRT expansion, resurfacing projects, and detours in high-growth neighbourhoods like Barrhaven, Orléans, and Vanier, drivers often face delays and sudden changes in traffic flow. These disruptions can lead to higher claim activity from fender benders and minor collisions, especially during peak commuting hours.

Then there’s Ottawa’s urban core, where you’ll encounter busy pedestrian zones, bike lanes, and the challenges of driving near high-traffic tourist areas like ByWard Market, Parliament Hill, and the Rideau Canal. These areas require extra caution and can present additional risk factors for both collisions and insurance claims.

Ottawa vehicle theft factors

Car theft is also a growing concern in the capital. According to Ottawa Police, 1,705 vehicles were reported stolen in 2024, with only 951 recovered. When there is a high level of vehicle theft insurance claims, insurance companies will often increase premiums for everyone in the area to help cover the loss. According to data from the Ottawa Police Service, the worst Ottawa areas for car thefts in 2024 were:

Gloucester-Southgate (164 vehicle thefts)
Bay Ward (111 vehicle thefts)
Rideau-Vanier (88 vehicle thefts)
River (87 vehicle thefts)

Ottawa weather factors

Ottawa’s weather can be unpredictable, and it often dents more than just your mood. According to initial estimates from Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc. (CatIQ), a severe ice storm in March 2025 that hit parts of Ontario and Quebec, including Ottawa, caused $342 million in insured damage, with many damaged vehicles as a result.

Plus, the Insurance Bureau of Canada reported that over the summer of 2023, severe storms and flash floods hit parts of Ontario, causing $340 million in insured losses. The Ottawa region, specifically, was hit hardest, with intense flash flooding, torrential downpours, and violent wind gusts. More than $80 million was used just for replacing or repairing storm-damaged vehicles.

Because our BrokerLink brokers live and work in the city, we understand these local driving risks and more, and we’ll work with you to find the right coverage. We’ll help tailor an affordable auto insurance policy that fits how, where, and when you drive in Ottawa. Contact us for a free Ottawa car insurance quote today.

It pays to shop around for auto insurance in Ottawa

When buying car insurance in Ottawa, one of the best practices to adopt is to shop around for coverage. The way to do this is by enlisting the help of an Ottawa car insurance broker. We have several locations in and around Ottawa for your convenience, including our branches on Cyrville Road, Greenbank Road, and Antares Drive.

When you partner with BrokerLink, one of our licensed insurance brokers will make finding you the perfect policy a top priority. They'll reach out to our contacts at several of Canada’s top insurance companies to inquire about their products and obtain insurance quotes on your behalf. After that, we will compare car insurance quotes to find the cheapest car insurance policy that still fits your needs and lifestyle.

You can always trust that your BrokerLink insurance advisor has your best interests at heart. We specialize in providing objective, unbiased insurance advice. And we're also here to walk you through the claims process should you ever find yourself in a rear-end collision at the corner of Hunt Club Road and Riverside Drive. At the end of the day, all we want is to find you a great policy at a price you can afford. Overall, when you take advantage of the expertise and resources of a professional insurance broker in Ottawa to help you shop around, you are much more likely to find quality, affordable coverage.

We’re in your community

BrokerLink has been a proud member of the Ottawa community since our founding in 1991. That means that for over 30 years, we have been helping Ottawa drivers find quality car insurance coverage. Whether you’re skating on the Rideau Canal, shopping in the ByWard Market, or driving over the Portage Bridge into Gatineau, we understand what it means to be a driver in the capital because we live and work here, too. Because we are a part of the Ottawa community, we know the local roads, traffic patterns, and weather risks in Ottawa neighbourhoods that affect your rates and your protection. Learn more by contacting BrokerLink today.

Ready to receive your free Ottawa car insurance quote from BrokerLink?

If you're ready to purchase car insurance in Ottawa or want to learn more, contact BrokerLink. Let us be your one-stop shop for all things insurance. From start to finish, our brokers handle the legwork to make sure you walk away satisfied. Use our free online quote tool to get a free quote today, give our brokers a call, or visit us in person at any of our locations in Ontario, and we’ll find you cheap Ottawa auto insurance coverage that works best for you.

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FAQs about car insurance in Ottawa

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

When do car insurance rates go down in Ottawa?

Rates usually start to ease once you’ve built up about 10 years of accident-free driving. But it’s not only about age or experience. In Ottawa, your premium also reflects factors like your driving record, claims history, and even where you live. For example, driving in Sandy Hill may come with different risks than living in Kanata.

If I get into an at-fault accident, will my Ottawa car insurance rates go up?

Typically, yes. If you’re at fault, your rates will likely go up the next time that your policy is renewed. The exception is if you have accident forgiveness on your policy. And if you weren’t responsible for the collision, your premium shouldn’t change.

Do I need an Ontario driver’s licence to buy auto insurance in Ottawa?

Yes. You’ll need a valid Ontario licence to buy Ottawa car insurance and to register your vehicle. If you’ve recently moved from Quebec or another province, updating your licence to an Ontario one should be one of your first steps.

What does Ottawa car insurance cost on average?

The average car insurance cost in Ottawa varies, as it depends on things like a person's driving history, their car, their age, and even their neighbourhood. To get a clearer idea of your rates, you can request a personalized quote from a local broker.

Do premiums vary between neighbourhoods, like Sandy Hill and Kanata?

Yes. Drivers in high-density areas like Centretown or Sandy Hill may pay more because of heavier traffic and theft risk, compared to suburban areas like Barrhaven or Kanata.

What are the most common claims in Ottawa?

Winter rear-end collisions are common, along with weather-related damage from hail or flooding. Vehicle theft is also a growing issue, particularly in neighbourhoods like Gloucester-Southgate, Bay Ward, and Barrhaven.

How does traffic congestion in downtown Ottawa impact my insurance premium?

Heavy traffic increases your chance of being in a collision. This increased risk can raise your premium to reflect it. Therefore, if you regularly drive or park in downtown Ottawa, insurance companies may consider that when setting your car insurance premium.

What Ottawa neighbourhoods are considered high-risk for vehicle theft?

Ottawa Police reported Gloucester-Southgate and Bay Ward as the worst wards for vehicle thefts in 2024, while the worst neighbourhood was New Barrhaven.

Is insurance required for parked cars in Ottawa?

Generally, no, but it's still highly recommended. Comprehensive coverage can help protect against the types of risks your car still faces even while it's off the road, including theft, fire, vandalism, and weather-related damage. However, if your vehicle is parked on a public roadway, it must be insured, as per Ontario law.

How do I renew my Ottawa car insurance policy?

Most Ottawa drivers renew car insurance online or over the phone, but you can also sit down with your broker in person. A local broker will make sure your policy still fits your needs and help you decide whether you need to make any changes.

If my phone is stolen from my car, does my Ottawa auto insurance cover it?

No. Auto insurance in Ottawa protects the car itself, but not your belongings inside. Comprehensive coverage may cover damage from the break-in and stolen parts like a catalytic converter or built-in stereo, but for items like laptops or phones, you’ll need to check your home or tenant insurance policy.

Can brokers in Ottawa help with more than basic coverage?

Absolutely. A broker can set you up with the mandatory coverages, like liability, accident benefits, uninsured automobile, and also walk you through your options for extras, like collision, comprehensive, accident forgiveness, or loss of use coverage.

How can I find cheap car insurance in Ottawa?

You can find cheaper car insurance by bundling multiple vehicles together or bundling your home and auto insurance. Other ways to save money include maintaining a clean driving record, using winter tires, completing a driver’s education course, choosing higher deductibles, asking about various discounts, and getting rid of coverage you no longer need.

Are Ottawa drivers covered if they commute into Gatineau?

Yes, as long as you’ve told your broker about your regular cross-border trips. Parking and commuting patterns in Quebec can influence your risks and premiums, so it’s important that you update your insurance company.

Are there discounts for federal government employees in Ottawa?

Yes. Many auto insurance companies offer group discounts for federal workers. If you’re a government employee, check with your broker to see if you qualify.

Are insurance premiums higher if I park on the street in central Ottawa?

Often, yes. Street parking downtown or in high-theft areas carries more risk than keeping your car in a private driveway or garage, which can lead to higher premiums.

Do Ottawa drivers pay more for insurance than rural drivers?

Generally, yes. Urban areas like Ottawa tend to have higher insurance premiums compared to rural regions. This is due to factors such as increased traffic congestion, higher accident rates, and greater risk of vehicle theft.

Can students in Ottawa get discounted auto insurance?

Yes. Students in Ottawa may be eligible for various car insurance discounts, such as good student discounts, away-at-school discounts, and possibly professional school association or alumni discounts.