Insurers take various factors into account to set your auto insurance premium, such as the type of vehicle you own, the people who drive it and the coverage you’ve chosen.
1. The vehicle itself (vehicule type, make, model, year, value, equipment, etc.)
A car that is more expensive to repair or replace is more expensive to insure. Also, the increasing presence of in-vehicle technology directly impacts repair costs, and that influences the cost of insurance.
2. How you use your vehicle
Does your child occasionally drive your car? Will you use your vehicle to go to work? How many kilometers do you drive per year? Discuss your needs with your insurer in order to make an informed choice and let them know how you actually use your vehicle.
It’s not a good idea to leave out information to save money. In the event of a claim, you may be compensated only partially—or not at all.
3. Your place of residence and where you use your vehicle
The city where you live and that where you drive affect the cost of your car insurance. In big cities where there are many vehicles on the road and heavy traffic, the risk of accidents is higher.
Depending on the make and model of your car, the risk of theft or vandalism is also greater in certain areas.
4. Driver profiles
The age and gender of drivers and their driving experience determine the likelihood of being involved in an accident. This is inevitably reflected on the premium.
5. Coverage and deductibles chosen
The only mandatory coverage is civil liability insurance. You can then choose among various coverage options, such as those that cover damage to your vehicle or provide you with waiver of depreciation following a claim. You will also have to choose your deductible amount, or the amount you agree to pay in the event of a claim.
6. Your accident history
Accidents in which you have been involved in the past and claims that you have made are taken into account when determining your premium.
This information is found in the Fichier central des sinistres automobiles (automobile claims database). You can make a request to consult your file on the Groupement des assureurs automobiles website.
7. Your SAAQ driving record
It contains information about your driving experience and your demerit points.
8. Your credit report
If you give your consent, your insurer may use the information in your credit report to determine your premium. Having a good credit report usually results in a better premium with most insurers.
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