Compare Montreal Car Insurance Quotes
Everything you need to know about how car insurance in Montreal works. Find out how to customize your policy and uncover the savings.
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How car insurance in Montreal, Quebec works
Matt Hands, VP, Insurance
Montreal is a great city full of exciting culture, great food, music, and sports. While it may seem like you’re in the Grand Prix taking tight turns around construction zones, you won’t be driving fast. The Champlain Bridge is one of Canada’s busiest bridges and slows to a crawl during rush hour commutes.
Montreal makes up 15% of claims submitted by Quebec drivers and as a result, pays some of the highest auto premiums in Quebec. But the average annual car insurance premium in Quebec is still the lowest in Canada coming in under $700, most Montreal drivers, however, will pay over $800.
Since 1978, Quebec car insurance has been a hybrid system. The two components of the mandated system are public (section A) and private (section B). The public or government-run coverage protects against bodily injury, whereas private insurers cover any property damage
Section A - public insurance
The public policy is administered by the Société de l'Assurance Automobile du Québec (SAAQ). SAAQ ensures all Montreal drivers, regardless of who's at-fault, are covered for injury or death resulting from a vehicle collision.
No-fault insurance is part of this basic plan. Any Montrealers in a vehicle accident in Quebec are covered by the plan, regardless of whether or not they are responsible for the accident. No Montreal driver can sue against the person responsible for the traffic accident.
However, if you plan on driving outside the province of Quebec, call your insurance provider to adjust coverage accordingly. SAAQ will do their best to bring you back to Quebec to recover should something happen while you're away.
The public coverage receives contributions from licensing and vehicle registration payments.
Section B - private insurance (required coverage)
Private insurance companies in Montreal are responsible for the following property damage coverages. Their full definitions are further down the page.
- Third-party liability
- Uninsured Motorist Protection
- Direct Compensation Property Damage
Optional car insurance in Montreal
You have the option to add to your Montreal auto insurance coverage to enhance your policy. The following are some common add-ons.
- Collision
- Comprehensive
- All perils
- Specified perils
Montreal insurance endorsements
You can also modify your existing coverage using Quebec Endorsement Forms (QEF). Here are some popular options.
- QEF 5c - extends coverage for a leased vehicle, no longer than 30 days.
- QEF 16 - Suspension of coverage during vehicle storage
- QEF 17 - reinstatement of coverage after vehicle storage
- QEF 44 - Allows you to carry your existing coverage into other specified countries
You can find a list of all the forms at the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) , an organisation responsible for financial regulation in the Canadian province of Québec
How much does car insurance cost in Montreal?
The average cost of car insurance in Montreal is $800, just slightly more than the provincial average of $700. While it's the cheapest insurance in Canada, could you be paying less? Let's find out.
compare quotes nowMandatory coverage for auto insurance in
Mandatory insurance is mostly about protecting you from damage you may cause to others and their property. Protecting you car is in optional coverages.
Third-party liability
Accident benefits
Uninsured motorist
Frequently asked questions about car insurance in Montreal
How do I get the cheapest car insurance in Montreal?
To get the cheapest insurance, you can get the minimum third-party liability, drop any optional coverage like collision and comprehensive, and lose any endorsements. The problem, though, is that you're increasing your risk. Should you be involved in an accident, it could cost you a lot more than had you just gone with a standard insurance policy. You'll be paying out-of-pocket for any damage to other people's property including your own.
What are the best car insurance companies in Montreal?
The best car insurance companies in Montreal aren't always TD, CAA, or Intact. While they're a popular choice, it doesn't mean they'll be the best insurance company for you. While a recommendation is nice when you're looking for great customer service, car insurance companies change their prices all the time, so it's worth it to compare car insurance quotes online to see who will give you the best rate.
Do I need winter tires in Montreal?
Yes, from December 15th to March 15th inclusive, all vehicles must have winter tires installed. Failure to do so and you could see fines of up to $300.
Is it illegal to turn right on red in Montreal?
The province of Quebec allows for right turns on red except if there’s a sign indicating you cannot. However, it is illegal to turn right on red anywhere on the island of Montreal.
How does Montreal car rental insurance work?
Rental car insurance is much more complicated than it needs to be. Here's what you need to know. If you have insurance, you can add SEF27 to your Montreal auto insurance policy, allowing you to use your existing insurance with the rental car. It covers you for third-party liability, so if you damage someone else's property, you have coverage. If you have collision insurance on your policy, you have coverage if you damage the rental car. If someone steals something from your car, personal effects coverage is covered by your Montreal home insurance.
If you don't have car insurance, you may have collision insurance with your credit card. Call your credit card provider to see what level of coverage you have and how it works before assuming full coverage.
Optional car insurance coverage in
You can personalize your coverage with these common additions that protect your car.
Collision insurance
Comprehensive insurance
Emergency roadside assistance
Specified perils
All perils
Are you getting the best price for auto insurance?
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How to get cheap car insurance in
Shop and compare
Research which company provides cheap car insurance in , and also the best value for you and your vehicle. Rates may change up to four times a year, but lucky for you comparing car insurance quotes with us is free.
Stay with your current insurer
Some car insurance companies will give loyalty discounts to drivers who remain active with them for years. Especially if they add family members or multiple vehicles to their policy.
Bundle your policies
If you use the same insurance company for both your home and auto insurance needs, your insurer will often thank you with a dip in premiums.
Get a multi car discount
If you have multiple drivers and vehicles in the same household, by putting them all on one policy can save you money.
Increase your deductible
Your deductible is the portion you pay when settling a claim before your insurer will pay the rest. If you’re willing to double your deductible, it could save you money.
Ask about discounts
If you’re a member of a large corporation, union, or a school alumnus, it could help you get cheaper car insurance.
Pay premiums annually, instead of monthly
Paying monthly adds administrative costs to your insurer, so if you’re able to pay in full annually you can lower your premiums.
Maintain a good driving record
If you’re a safe driver, obey the rules of the road and drive according to road conditions you can reduce your chances of an accident. Car crashes stay on your insurance record for up to ten years and can result in higher premiums.
Install winter tires
You can save up to 3-5% simply by adding winter tires to your car.
Matt Hands, VP of Insurance
With 6+ years of experience at Ratehub.ca, Matt’s focus has been on growing its newest business unit, Insurance. He is a thought leader and a valuable resource to respected publications across Canada. read full bio
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