In Alberta, driving without valid insurance can land you with a serious fine. If you are caught on a first offense, you can receive a minimum $2,875 fine and up to $10,000. If you fail to pay this fine, you could wind up in jail for 45 days to 6 months. A second offense fine (being caught within 5 years of the original offense) will have you facing a minimum fine of $5,000, that could rack up to $20,000 very easily. Bottom line? Don't drive without insurance.
But just because it's mandatory, doesn't mean it's easy. There's so many options out there when it comes to insurance and it can be extremely overwhelming to find the right fit for your situation. BrokerLink helps you compare quotes so that you aren't left in the dark. An insurance broker in your corner is an invaluable resource in the insurance process. They get to know you and use their insurance expertise to tailor your decisions.
Beyond the legality, Airdrie drivers should have insurance because it protects their vehicle and themselves from potential financial ruin. The province has established mandatory coverage rules to protect drivers, pedestrians, and passengers alike. On top of this existing coverage, there is optional coverage drivers can also purchase. Here are just a few of the benefits to purchasing auto insurance in Airdrie:
You will have protection if you are injured in a crash
If you are involved in a collision, you may face more than just your standard repair and replacement costs. If you, a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian is hurt, they could see costs due to loss of income and rehabilitation that are not covered by your standard Alberta Healthcare. In Airdrie, car insurance is designed to include accident benefits coverage, but this coverage can be enhanced if you choose. The standard minimum is $200,000, but it is advised you increase it to at least $1,000,000 to cover all costs you may be faced with.
Your vehicle would have protection if you were involved in an accident
If your auto insurance coverage contains collision, you will have coverage for the cost of repairs and replacements up until your policy's limits. Accidents are more common than you might think; and be that accident your responsibility or a total blindside, there will be damages regardless. Collision insurance can help pay for the damages done to your car.
You might have coverage if there's a break-in
Vehicle theft rates are on the rise, and they're a serious issue. Car criminals are becoming ever more sophisticated in their thieving efforts. If your car were to be broken into and stolen entirely or even just vandalized, your insurance may cover the cost of repairs or replacement. Comprehensive insurance includes this protection, which is an optional add-on to your existing car insurance policy in Airdrie.
Your car may have protection if it is damaged by something besides another car
With the right coverage, your vehicle could have protection against the cost of repairs and replacements if it was damaged by natural events other than another vehicle. This might include bad weather, animals, tree branches, and the like. While damages from natural events is really no one's fault, it can be extremely costly to repair. Comprehensive coverage includes protection for falling objects, damages from nature, and even wildlife.
