Summer Roadtrips and Auto Insurance
Summer Roadtrips and Auto Insurance
Summer is the perfect time to plan getaways, road trips, or visits to friends and family across Canada and beyond. If you are considering exploring neighboring Canadian provinces or heading to a U.S. destination, understanding your auto insurance coverage is essential.
What You Need to Know Before Traveling.
There are some important preparations to consider:
1. Check Your Auto Insurance Coverage
Your Ontario Standard Auto Policy provides comprehensive protection for accidents that happen outside the province. This includes travel anywhere in Canada, the United States, and even while on a vessel between Canadian and American ports.
Your coverage will include:
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Liability coverage in case you are at fault for an accident.
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Accident Benefits to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and income replacement, regardless of fault.
It's important to note that if you're involved in an accident outside Ontario, your benefits will depend on the jurisdiction where the accident occurred.
2. Prepare for Local Road Regulations
Each province or state may have its own driving laws, and it's a good idea to learn the basics before arriving. Common differences could include speed limits, rules around handheld devices, and requirements for specific insurance documentation.
3. Roadside Assistance Considerations
If you have roadside assistance as part of your auto insurance or through membership programs like CAA, confirm that it extends to your planned destinations. Having backup support can be a lifesaver during long trips.
4. Emergency Contact List
Ensure you have all necessary contact numbers, such as your insurance provider's claims department, roadside assistance, and local emergency services in your travel destinations.
Understanding Coverage Outside Ontario.
Liability Coverage.
Should you be involved in an accident outside of Ontario, your liability coverage will adjust to meet local requirements. For example, if the liability minimum where you're driving is higher than Ontario's standard, your policy will automatically increase to match the higher limit. This ensures you're always covered adequately.
Accident Benefits Coverage.
Accident Benefits coverage remains an integral part of your policy, regardless of where you drive. However, you will receive benefits based on the jurisdiction where the accident happens. It's important to know that if another jurisdiction's benefits apply, you won't be eligible for the Ontario Accident Benefits supplement as well.
Inter-Province or Cross-Border Accidents.
If you're traveling between provinces or into the United States, your policy guarantees coverage for incidents during transit. Additionally, in cases involving multiple jurisdictions, insurance companies determine which party must pay benefits. While this arbitration may take time to resolve, your benefits will not be delayed.
Key Steps If You're in an Accident During Your Travels.
Knowing what to do after an accident is critical to safeguarding your health, safety, and claim eligibility. Here's a quick checklist:
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Ensure Safety First
Move to a safe area, check for injuries, and call emergency services as needed.
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Document the Scene
Collect details about the accident, including photos of damage, license plate numbers, contact information for involved parties, and any witness accounts.
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Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately
Notify your insurer as soon as possible to report the incident and start your claim. Even small accidents should be reported.
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Follow Local Requirements
Some provinces or states may have unique requirements for reporting accidents.
If you have questions about your auto insurance coverage or need legal assistance following an accident, our experienced team of motor vehicle accident lawyers are available to help, so contact us today for a free consultation.
