Car Insurance - Am I Covered in Canada?

Although it’s literally next door, Canada offers a wide range of sights and attractions that the United States simply cannot match. As any experienced tourist would agree, Canada is a great place to visit. Of course, visiting another country is never a walk in the park. Most travelers know you’ll need a passport just to cross the boarder, but not everyone is so sure when it comes to car insurance. Do you need to buy car insurance when you get there? Does your current policy cover you in Canada?

The Low Down on Car Insurance in Canada

If you’re thinking about taking a trip to Canada and plan on driving a vehicle at any time you are there, you should definitely contact your car insurance provider to see if you’re covered. These days, most insurance companies do provide coverage for drivers in Canada, but you’ll also need to make sure your amount of coverage is sufficient for Canadian laws. Assuming you are covered, you should ask your insurer for a non-resident inter-province motor vehicle liability insurance card. This card is proof that your insurer will provide at least the minimum coverage anywhere you drive in Canada. You may even be required to show the card as you cross the US boarder. Fortunately, your driver’s license will also be valid in Canada, as long as you are a resident of the United States and only visiting. Here are some other tips you might want to know about if you plan on visiting Canada:

Tips for Driving in Canada

• When crossing the US boarder into Canada, you will be required to provide proof of identification and a passport. In most cases, passports are fairly easy to obtain, but don’t wait till the last minute to get yours.
• If your vehicle does incur any type of damage while in Canada, try to avoid making repairs until you get home, unless they are absolutely necessary. It’s simply easier to go through the car insurance claims process in your own country than in another. A slightly cracked window or dent can always wait till you get back.
• Keep in mind that vehicle speed limits are often lower in Canada than those of the United States. Speed limits are also posted in kilometers, as opposed to miles, which your vehicle should have a gauge for.
• Depending on where you drive, remember that road conditions may be less than favorable in Canada, especially during the winter. Be prepared to drive in snow and be on the lookout for roaming wildlife!
• Are you a member of the American Automobile Association or AAA? You’re in luck, as the Canadian Automobile Association will cover the members of their American counterparts.
• Finally, do a little research on Canadian driving laws before your visit. Canada does have some slightly different laws and they can be quite strict. If you have any other questions, contact your insurance provider or the nearest Canadian Consulate for more information.