Shopping for Calgary auto insurance can be an intimidating task. There are so many different companies, policies, and pricing factors that it can be tough to know what you can expect and whether you’re getting a reasonable deal. However, if you go about it deliberately and measure all your options, then you can be confident that you’re making the right choice. Here are six simple steps for purchasing Calgary auto insurance.
Step 1: How much coverage do you need?
Determine how much insurance coverage you need. Every province has different requirements; for Calgary auto insurance, everyone needs to have a minimum of $200,000 for third-party liability coverage, which includes a range of possible expenses. Going beyond the minimum, you may also want to consider extra coverage for things like theft, weather damage, or certain types of accidents that aren’t covered by default.
Most insurance companies will have the information about what’s required for Calgary auto insurance, but it certainly helps to have the information at hand when you start the insurance-buying process.
Step 2: How much should you expect to pay?
If you’ve received tickets or have been in accidents, insurance companies will probably ask you to pay a higher rate. They may also ask you to pay more based on your age, where you live, the model of your car, and the frequency of your auto use. Negative points on your driving record expire with time, so you may want to ask insurance companies about their policies regarding these data points. It could be that your rate will go down if you just wait a month or two before soliciting a quote.
Step 3: Get quotes.
Start with websites that can provide quotes from multiple Calgary auto insurance companies at once. These results may not be as accurate as quotes directly from the providers, but doing this will at least give you a sense of what you can expect. If you have more time to spare, you can also go directly through companies’ websites. If there are any Calgary auto insurance companies you’re interested in but which don’t offer online quotes, call them. Keep a spreadsheet containing all the quotes you get.
Step 4: Keep an eye out for discounts.
As you’re doing your research—especially for the companies that you call—try to find information about discounts or other ways to save money on your insurance. For example, you may be able to save by getting a combined plan for you and your spouse, or you might get a discount for certain safety features included with your car.
Step 5: Make your choice.
Now that you have all the facts and figures at hand, it’s time to choose your company. If you’re still not completely sure, ask several friends which companies they use, or call a trusted mechanic or auto body shop and ask which Calgary auto insurance companies they think are best. For a more authoritative consultation, talk to a licensed professional about how to evaluate the costs and benefits of auto insurance policies.
Step 6: Review the policy in full.
Before signing your insurance policy, read every word of the contract. It may not be the most interesting reading, but it will ensure that you aren’t surprised later on by policy features. Plus, the information will be useful to know should you ever have an accident.
