Auto Insurance Has
Changed
Your car insurance coverage changes effective
your first renewal on or after September 1st,
2010.
Over the coming months, you
are going to be hearing about the fact that your automobile insurance is changing. Every 5
years, there is a mandated review of the auto insurance coverage.
The outcome of this review will result in changes to the coverage
that you currently have. At this time, Ontario has the highest
level of standard coverage in Canada. These are coverages that you
pay for, in your automobile insurance premium.
Due to rapidly escalating
claims and assessment costs (Did you know that currently for every
$1 spent on treatment to make you better after a car accident,
$0.60 is spent on assessments?!), in order for insurance companies
to be able to continue to provide the product to residents of
Ontario, premiums were projected to continue rising sharply. The
hope is that these changes will slow down that rise in premium
costs, and enable us to continue to provide affordable car
insurance in Ontario. After the changes take effect, Ontario will
still have the highest level of standard coverage in Canada
(although it will be more similar to levels in other provinces),
with "Buy-Back" options provided.
We will be providing our
clients with more information in the coming months, but for now, it
is important to know that your coverage will be changing
on your first renewal on or after September
1st, 2010, and execution of claims
process will change for claims occurring on or after September
1st, 2010. You will be getting a letter from your
insurance company to this effect, towards the end of June. Keep
your eye on our website (auto reform guide)and blog
for more information.
Menu:
Choosing the Right
Insurance...it's easier than you think!
Choice is important to all consumers. We know you have
many options when it comes to buying insurance. However, if
you want independant, unbiased, uninfluenced, personalized advice,
there is only one choice. And that choice is an independant
insurance broker.
Independant insurance brokers work for you - not for a call
centre, and insurance company or a bank. As your independant
insurance broker, we are your consultant and advocate - ans we're
with you every step of the way. As your life and insurance
needs change, whether it's marriage, a new home, young drivers or
the toys that come with retirement, we can tailor an insurance
product that fits you perfectly.
Don't settle for one-size fits all solutions. By properly
assessing your insurance needs, we can help you purchase customized
insurance products that match your needs. Because we
represent many insurers, we search the marketplace for the best
insurance coverage for you. Unlike direct agents who can only
sell the product of the Insurer or bank they work for, we offer
more choices, unbiased advice and insurance that fits. This
is our advantage for you.
And remember, when you deal with an independant insurance
broker, you get a licensed and highly trained insurance
professional working for you. From the application process to
the never anticipated claim, we're here to guide you, offer advice
and advocate on your behalf. You're never alone and never
just a number. We're insurance experts and we're on your
side.
It's no wonder we say...Your Best Insurance, is an Insurance
Broker.
Tips for Driving in the USA
If you plan on driving in the United States, whether in a rental
car or your own, there are certain steps you can take to make sure
you're trip os safe and enjoyable.
First, make sure you have a valid Passport or WHTI-compliant
identification like an enhanced driver's license [EDL] or NEXUS
card. Since June 2009, Canadians travelling to the US by land
or sea are required to present an approved document that shows
identity and citizenship.
Be aware that you must declare any meats, fruits, vegetables,
plants, seeds and animals you have in your vehicle or are carrying,
including checked baggage and carry-on luggage.
Also make sure to carry your valid Driver's Licence and proof of
insurance. An up-to-date pink insurance liability slip
includes important telephone numbers and proves you have
insurance.
If you are considering renting a vehicle, it is a good idea to
extend coverage from your own Ontario automobile policy to the
rental vehicle. By adding an OPCF 27 to your auto policy, you
won't have to worry about buying extra insurance when you rent a
car anywhere in the United States or Canada.
Like Ontario's hands-free law, many states ban the use of cell
phones while driving. The states of Illinois, Massachusetts,
Michigan, New Mexico, Ohio and Pennsylvania even allow cities or
regions to implement their own bans. Be safe and smart and
avoid electronic destractions while behind the wheel.
It's impossible to know when, where or if you'll get into an
accident, but if you do, call us for advice and we'll help guide
you through the claims process.