Mandatory auto insurance in Fort Saskatchewan
Car insurance is a legal requirement in Alberta, which means Fort Saskatchewan motorists must hold valid, up-to-date auto insurance at all times. Furthermore, the provincial government of Alberta has stipulated that certain coverage must be included in car insurance policies. For example, drivers are required to carry a minimum of $200,000 in third-party liability coverage at all times.
Since car insurance is mandatory throughout the province, Alberta drivers who choose to drive without insurance are committing an illegal act and if caught, can face hefty fines and even jail time.
For the first offence in Alberta, uninsured motorists can be fined a minimum of $2,875 up to a maximum of $10,000. Failure to pay a fine can result in jail time ranging from 45 days to 6 months.
For a second offence, Fort Saskatchewan drivers may be fined a minimum of $5,000, up to a maximum of $20,000. Again, refusal or inability to pay the fine can result in jail time, this time lasting anywhere from 60 days to 6 months.
To avoid the risks that come with driving uninsured, we advise you to purchase car insurance policy as soon as possible. If you need help doing so, BrokerLink’s insurance advisors are available to explain the coverage options available to you and help you find a policy that complies with Alberta law.
In addition, to help Fort Saskatchewan drivers understand all there is to know about compulsory car insurance in Alberta, we’ve outlined the four types of coverage you are required to carry at all times. The four types of coverage are direct compensation, third-party liability coverage, uninsured automobile coverage, and accident benefits coverage. You can learn more about each below.
Third-party liability coverage
Liability coverage is an important element of any Alberta auto insurance policy. This type of coverage offers financial protection if you are injured or your car is damaged in a collision that you are at fault. Third-party liability coverage can help pay for medical expenses and vehicle repairs, as well as legal representation and court fees if necessary. As mentioned above, Alberta drivers are required to carry $200,000 in third-party liability coverage at all times.
Direct compensation
If you get into a collision that you are not at fault for, direct compensation can help. Whether you suffered an injury or your car was damaged, you can file a claim directly with your insurance provider to recover compensation and pay for the expenses associated with the accident.
Uninsured automobile coverage
Uninsured automobile coverage, as the name suggests, protects you and any passengers in your vehicle, should you get into an accident with an at-fault driver who is uninsured or underinsured.
Accident benefits coverage
If you, a passenger, or a pedestrian requires medical attention following an accident, no matter which party is liable for the said accident, accident benefits coverage can help.
What factors influence Fort Saskatchewan insurance premiums?
Insurers take several factors into account when calculating insurance premiums. From age and location to driving record and claims history, there are a variety of details that determine how much Fort Saskatchewan drivers pay for car insurance. To help Alberta motorists understand exactly how car insurance rates are calculated, we’ve put together this list of the most common factors affecting insurance premiums today:
- Location
- Age
- Driving experience
- Driving record
- Gender
- Type of vehicle you drive
- Claims history
- Annual mileage
- Prior insurance coverage
- Your deductible
- Local laws
- How you use your vehicle
- Marital status
Please note that insurance brokerages like BrokerLink are not insurance providers and therefore do not determine car insurance rates. That said, our knowledgeable insurance advisors are available to provide accurate, competitive quotes and help you find the right coverage for the most affordable price.
Saving money on car insurance just got easier
While car insurance offers unparalleled peace of mind to drivers, there’s no denying that it can be costly. Luckily, there are ways to pay less for car insurance. From enrolling in driving school to purchasing an eco-friendly vehicle, check out the following tips for how to save money on Fort Saskatchewan car insurance:
- Choose annual over monthly payments
- Purchase car insurance for more than one vehicle (savings of up to 20%)
- Bundle insurance policies (i.e. buy home insurance + car insurance or leisure vehicle insurance + car insurance etc.…) and purchase them from the same provider (savings of up to 15%)
- Purchase a hybrid or electric vehicle (savings of up to 5%)
- Increase your deductible
- Enrol in driving school (for young drivers)
- Partner with a knowledgeable broker
Tips for new drivers in Fort Saskatchewan
Driving for the first time can be a stressful experience. But rest assured that the more you practice, the more confident and comfortable you will become. To help new drivers in Fort Saskatchewan hone their skills, we’ve put together some of our top tips for young drivers:
Maximize space
Always give yourself extra space on the road. Space equals time, and the more time you have to react to a situation, the less likely you are to get into an accident. The general rule is to leave two car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you at all times. This distance should be even greater when travelling at high speeds, such as on a highway, or when driving in poor inclement weather conditions like snow, ice, or fog.
Slow down
Our second piece of advice is to slow down. Driving slowly means driving safely. Aim to drive the speed limit at all times. In certain situations, you may even wish to drive below the speed limit, such as when driving through construction or in poor weather conditions like snow, ice, or fog. Lastly, don’t hesitate to take your time when manoeuvring (changing lanes, parking, and turning), and when accelerating and braking.
Be aware of your surroundings
A driving habit all young drivers should adopt is being aware of their surroundings. To do this, you must keep track of all vehicles and hazards on the road. Check your rear-view and side mirrors every few seconds, scan the lanes in front of you, and keep an eye out for traffic signs, construction zones, and any other potential road hazards.
Attend driving school
Our top tip for young drivers in Alberta? Enrol in driving school. There is no substitute for receiving instruction from a professional. Many driving schools combine in-class and in-car lessons, allowing you to learn the rules of the road and develop your driving skills simultaneously. Plus, attending driving school may make you eligible for a discount on car insurance, which can be expensive for young drivers.
Get in touch
Want to learn more about Fort Saskatchewan car insurance? You’ve come to the right place!
As an experienced of the leading brokerages with locations throughout Alberta, BrokerLink knows the ins and outs of the insurance industry and is eager to help Fort Saskatchewan drivers find the right policies for them.
Our team of expert insurance advisors will be with you every step of the way. They can browse coverage options on your behalf, obtain and compare quotes, and unlock discounts, to ensure you are getting the best car insurance at the best price.
To begin your car insurance journey today, give us a call, contact us online, or visit us in person at one of our many locations throughout Alberta.
We also invite Fort Saskatchewan motorists to take advantage of our free auto insurance quotes. We offer complimentary, obligation-free quotes to all Alberta residents.
What are you waiting for? Kickstart your car insurance journey by partnering with BrokerLink today. We can’t wait to meet you!
Get an auto insurance quote [phone]
More ways to find a great car insurance rate in Alberta
