Snowmobile insurance in Ontario

Standard snowmobile insurance coverage in Ontario

Standard snowmobile insurance coverage in Ontario is the type of coverage that you are required to have if you drive your snowmobile on public roads. It is also the minimum coverage that is recommended, even if you solely ride your snowmobile on private property. The following list outlines the four types of standard snowmobile insurance coverage in Ontario:

Third party liability coverage

Liability car insurance works the same for snowmobiles as it does for cars. This type of coverage protects drivers should they get in an accident that is their fault. In other words, if you accidentally run into a car while driving your snowmobile, your third party liability coverage can help pay for any applicable repair fees if damage was done, medical expenses if someone was injured, or legal fees. Snowmobile riders in Ontario who drive their snowmobiles on public roads must carry a minimum of $200,000 in liability insurance.

Accident benefits coverage

Accident benefits coverage will cover the cost of medical attention for yourself or someone else involved in the accident if you get into a snowmobile accident that results in bodily injury. For instance, accident benefits can cover medical expenses not covered by health insurance, like prescription medication.

Direct compensation - property damage coverage

Direct compensation - property damage coverage will pay to repair your snowmobile if it is damaged in an accident that you did not cause.

Uninsured automobile coverage

Uninsured automobile coverage is one last type of standard snowmobile insurance coverage in Ontario. It protects any snowmobile rider who gets into an accident with a driver who is uninsured, underinsured, or unidentified, in the case of a hit and run.

Comprehensive snowmobile coverage in Ontario

If a standard snowmobile insurance policy just doesn’t do it for you, consider purchasing a comprehensive policy, i.e. one that contains extra protection in the form of add-ons or riders. The following types of snowmobile coverage may be optional in the province but they certainly offer greater protection for you and your snowmobile:

Collision coverage

Collision car coverage will reimburse you if you get into an accident while riding your snowmobile and your snowmobile is damaged as a result. With this type of coverage, your insurer will help pay for the cost of repairs, less your deductible and up to your policy limit. Collision coverage can be claimed whether you caused the accident or not and whether the accident was with another car, object, or even an animal.

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive car coverage is another type of optional snowmobile coverage that might be worth adding to your policy. This is the type of coverage you want to add if you want to be protected against theft. In fact, comprehensive coverage protects your snowmobile against a wide range of risks that aren’t collision-related, like damage from fire, windstorms, water, falling objects, or vandalism. As the policyholder, you will be able to select the specific perils that you want coverage for.

Accident forgiveness coverage

One more type of optional snowmobile insurance coverage popular among snowmobile riders is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness is additional coverage that can be added to your snowmobile insurance policy as an endorsement, to protect your driving record and to help prevent your insurance premium from increasing if you have an at-fault accident claim. Note: coverage and eligibility varies by province.

Factors that may influence your Ontario snowmobile insurance premium

As an insurance brokerage, we do not set premiums. Instead, these are set by insurance companies. That said, as insurance experts, we know a little bit about how insurance companies calculate rates. Today, we want to share with you which factors insurers use to evaluate risk and determine premiums. The following is a list of factors that your insurance company is likely to consider when deciding how much you will pay for an Ontario snowmobile insurance policy:

• Your driving record
• The cost of your snowmobile
• Your age
• Your gender
• The type, model, features, horsepower, and top speed of the snowmobile
• Past claims
• Average mileage
• Driving experience
• Insurance history
• The deductible amounts you choose
• The coverage types and limits you choose
• Regulatory bodies
• How you use your snowmobile (personal vs. commercial, daily vs. weekends only vs. occasional use)

As you can see, there is a wide range of factors that an insurance company will consider. Thus, no two policyholders will pay the same amount for snowmobile insurance in Ontario. As such, if you want a better idea of how much snowmobile coverage will cost you, the best course is to contact BrokerLink and request a free quote. We are happy to provide all Ontario customers with competitive snowmobile insurance quotes, free of charge.

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How to spend less on Ontario snowmobile insurance

If you’re looking to save money on Ontario snowmobile insurance, BrokerLink can help. We know how to keep insurance rates as low as possible. So no matter what budget you’re working with, read through the following list of broker-approved tips to discover several ways that you can save money on snowmobile insurance in Ontario:

Park your snowmobile in a secure location

Parking your snowmobile in a secure location can minimize the odds of theft or damage, which in turn, can lower your Ontario snowmobile insurance premium. An example of a secure location to park your vehicle is in a shed or garage that is covered and locked.

Install an anti-theft device on your snowmobile

Installing an anti-theft device on your snowmobile is another way to qualify for a snowmobile insurance discount. By taking this extra safety precaution, you are reducing the chances that your snowmobile will be stolen, which means that you are less likely to file an insurance claim. As such, your insurer may reward you with a cheaper rate.

Research snowmobiles before buying one

If you have yet to purchase a snowmobile, we recommend taking ample time to do your research. Why? The type of snowmobile you buy matters when it comes to your insurance rates. Typically, snowmobiles that are more expensive and have higher speed capabilities are costlier to insure. Conversely, less expensive snowmobiles with lower top speeds will cost less money to insure. Thus, if insurance costs are a major consideration, you may wish to choose a budget-friendly option.

Compare policies before purchasing coverage

Do not blindly purchase the first snowmobile policy you come across. Instead, take the time to see what's out there by shopping around. Ask multiple insurance companies about the snowmobile coverage they offer, compare this coverage, and then make an informed decision. If this process sounds too overwhelming, enlist the help of a broker. A BrokerLink insurance advisor can shop around and compare quotes for you so that you don’t have to.

Get help from a BrokerLink snowmobile insurance specialist

The Ontario BrokerLink team has years of experience helping customers find insurance for all kinds of recreational vehicles, including boats, ATVs, and snowmobiles. Thus, whether you want help buying a new policy, renewing an existing policy, or simply want to request a free quote, all you have to do is contact BrokerLink. Your dedicated BrokerLink insurance advisor can also unlock insurance discounts on your behalf and give you expert advice on other ways to save money on snowmobile insurance.

Bundle snowmobile insurance with other insurance policies

Bundling insurance policies is an ideal way to save money on multiple insurance products if you are in the market for more than one policy. For example, how bundling works is that, by purchasing two or more insurance products from the same company, they will give you a significant discount on each product. In most cases, you don’t need to purchase two of the same policies and instead could purchase two distinct policies. Thus, you might be able to purchase Ontario snowmobile coverage, alongside a personal car insurance policy or home insurance policy. Contact BrokerLink to find out which Ontario insurance companies offer insurance bundles, as well as which companies allow you to bundle snowmobile insurance.

Safe snowmobile driving tips

Anytime you ride a snowmobile, make sure you adopt safe and responsible driving habits. This means obeying posted speed limits, wearing protective gear, and taking extra caution when riding in inclement weather or at night. Check out the following list of safe driving tips before embarking on your next snowmobile adventure:

• Protect your snowmobile with the right Ontario snowmobile insurance coverage. Many experts recommend additional coverage, like collision, comprehensive, or accident forgiveness coverage, when driving recreational vehicles like snowmobiles and ATVs.
• Wear gear that will not only keep you warm but will protect your body, like a helmet, goggles or glasses, a snowmobile suit, gloves or mitts, and closed-toed boots.
• Carefully review your snowmobile manufacturer’s recommendations on maximum loads and passengers and do not go beyond them.
• Always check the weather before setting out in your snowmobile. If the forecast shows a potential snow or ice storm, stay inside or find an alternative mode of transportation.
• Drive below the speed limit and with extra caution when driving on public roads, in the dark, or at high speeds.
• Do not consume alcohol or drugs before riding your snowmobile.
• Make sure that you have a valid driver's licence and any other required permits on you when riding your snowmobile on public roads or land.
• Pay close attention to road hazards, like thawing ice or wildlife, when riding.
• Store an emergency kit in your snowmobile.
• Take extra care when driving on ice. In fact, you should aim to avoid riding across frozen lakes, rivers, or other bodies of water unless you can ensure that the ice is safely frozen. For tips for driving on icy roads and surfaces, contact BrokerLink.
• Regularly maintain your snowmobile by having it checked out by a professional. This will prevent a breakdown mid-ride.
• Go snowmobiling with others. Not only is it more fun to snowmobile with friends or family, but riding in groups can increase safety.
• If you snowmobile alone, make sure to inform your friends or family before you leave, providing them with details like where you are going, when you intend to be back, and how they can reach out in case of emergency.

We’re in your community

BrokerLink is here to help Ontario residents find coverage for whatever they need insured, whether that be a home, snowmobile, car, business, ATV, pet, or something else entirely. One of our dedicated insurance advisors will take the time to get to know you and your needs before matching you with a great insurance policy. Find out more about what BrokerLink does for the Ontario community by reaching out to us today.

Contact us

At Ontario BrokerLink, we’re here to help you with any insurance needs you may have. Whether it’s insuring your home, car, business, recreational items, or pets, let us help you find the best coverage possible.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any of our Ontario locations. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

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FAQs snowmobile insurance Ontario

Where can I buy snowmobile insurance in Ontario?

You can purchase snowmobile insurance from any insurance professional, whether that be an insurance agent from an insurance company or an insurance broker. Either way, you can walk away with coverage that protects you and your snowmobile. Snowmobile insurance can typically be purchased by calling an insurer, visiting their website, or going to your nearest insurance office in person.

If I buy snowmobile insurance coverage in Ontario, can I ride my snowmobile on any public road?

No. Although purchasing snowmobile insurance is a legal requirement if you want to drive on public roads in Ontario, having insurance does not mean that you are permitted to drive your snowmobile on any public road you wish. Snowmobiles are only permitted on certain public roads, so you will need to research which ones these are before setting out.

Will an insurance company look at my driving record before I buy snowmobile insurance in Ontario?

Yes, your insurance agent will ask for a copy of your driving record or driver’s abstract when you buy snowmobile insurance in Ontario. Why? Your driving record is a key indication of risk, and it is the insurance company’s job to determine how risky of a driver you are. If your record is clean, you will likely enjoy a cheaper premium than if your record has several accidents, tickets, or other driving infractions.

Does driving a snowmobile come with risk?

Yes, driving a snowmobile can be risky. This is especially the case if you are driving at high speeds and in inclement weather conditions. Though snowmobiles are designed to travel over snow and ice, riding in treacherous winter conditions can still be dangerous. Losing control of the snowmobile is always a risk, as is running into wildlife while driving off-road. That said, if you adopt safe snowmobile driving habits, like driving the speed limit and remaining vigilant, you should not have anything to worry about.

How much does snowmobile insurance cost?

The cost of snowmobile insurance depends on plenty of factors, including your driving record, age, location, and insurance claims history. Thus, the only way to find out how much it will cost you is to contact an insurance professional near you and request a free quote.

Are snowmobiles covered by my home insurance policy?

It is possible that your snowmobile is covered in part by your Ontario home insurance policy, though it really depends on the coverage included with your policy, as well as the terms and conditions of it. Thus, to find out if your home insurance plan covers your snowmobile, you will need to contact your provider directly.

Is snowmobile insurance required in Ontario?

If you plan to drive your snowmobile on public property or roads, then yes, snowmobile insurance is required by law. You will need to purchase a plan that meets the minimum coverage requirements set by the province, which includes a minimum of $200,000 in liability insurance.

Do I need a valid driver’s licence to operate a snowmobile in Ontario?

You are required to have a valid driver’s licence if you ride your snowmobile on public property. In other words, if you ever plan to ride your snowmobile outside of your own private property, you will need a valid driver’s licence. In addition to a valid licence, you will also need a motorized snow vehicle operator's licence (MSVOL) or a snowmobile driver's licence from your province, state, or country of origin.

Can I drive a snowmobile with a G1 licence in Ontario?

Yes. In Ontario, you are legally allowed to drive a snowmobile with a G1 driver’s licence, so long as you are 16 years of age or older. In essence, you can operate a snowmobile in the province of Ontario with any class of driver’s licence.

What type of snowmobiles does snowmobile insurance apply to?

Snowmobile insurance can be purchased for all makes, models, and types of snowmobiles, including but not limited to crossover snowmobiles, utility snowmobiles, trail snowmobiles, and touring snowmobiles. In other words, no matter what kind of snowmobile you ride in Ontario, you can find insurance coverage to protect it.

Does snowmobile insurance in Ontario cover theft?

Snowmobile insurance in Ontario can cover theft, depending on the coverage you choose to include in your policy. If you want to be covered in the event that your snowmobile was stolen, you would need to add comprehensive coverage to your policy. This type of coverage can protect your vehicle against theft, as well as against other risks like vandalism, falling objects, fire, windstorms, water damage, and more. With comprehensive coverage, if your snowmobile was stolen, your insurance company would help pay for the cost of replacing it.

Are helmets required when riding a snowmobile?

Unless you are riding your snowmobile on your own private property, helmets are required. No matter how experienced or skilled you are or your age, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for your protection at all times.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.