Contents Show
Things to Know Before Getting Ottawa Car Insurance
If you are looking to get car insurance in Ottawa, here are some important things to keep in mind:
- High insurance rates: Like many cities in Ontario, Ottawa has some of the highest car insurance rates in the country. This is due in part to a high number of accidents and a high population density.
- Insurance discounts: Many insurance providers offer discounts for things like safe driving, multiple policies, and low mileage. Be sure to ask about any available discounts that you may be eligible for to help lower your insurance premiums.
- Winter driving: Ottawa can experience severe winter weather conditions, including snow and ice. Be sure to adjust your driving to suit the weather conditions and prepare your vehicle for winter driving, such as using winter tires and ensuring your brakes and other systems are in good working order.
- Parking regulations: Ottawa has strict parking regulations, particularly in the downtown core. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the city’s parking rules to avoid fines or towing.
- Traffic congestion: Like many cities, Ottawa can experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour. Be prepared for longer commute times and plan your routes accordingly to avoid high-traffic areas if possible.
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Ottawa, and Ontario as a whole. It’s important to avoid distracted driving behaviors, such as using your phone or eating while driving, to help reduce the risk of accidents.
- Insurance fraud: Ontario has a high rate of insurance fraud, which can contribute to higher insurance rates. Be sure to only work with reputable insurance providers and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
What is the Average Car Insurance Rate in Ottawa
According to recent data, the average annual car insurance premium in Ottawa is around $1,324.
Here’s a table showing the average car insurance costs range for different driver profiles in Ottawa:
| Driver Profile | Monthly Cost (Liability only) | Monthly Cost (Liability + Collision) | Monthly Cost (Full coverage) |
|---|---|---|---|
| G1 Driver | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| G2 Driver | $200 – $400 | $280 – $560 | $360 – $720 |
| Full G | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Teenage Driver | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Young Driver | $240 – $480 | $330 – $660 | $420 – $840 |
| High-risk Driver | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Occasional driver | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Pleasure driver | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Commuting driver | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Good driver | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Bad driver | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| New Driver | $200 – $400 | $280 – $560 | $360 – $720 |
| Secondary Driver | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| 17 Years Old | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Seniors | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Over 55 Years Old | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Students | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| International Driver | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Newcomers | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Men Driver | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Women Driver | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Married Couples | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Usage-Based | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Uber/Lyft | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Personal use | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
Here’s a table showing the estimated monthly car insurance costs range for different types of cars in Ottawa:
| Car Type | Monthly Cost (Liability only) | Monthly Cost (Liability + Collision) | Monthly Cost (Full coverage) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sedan | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Convertible | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Hatchback | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Wagon | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| Coupe | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| SUV | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Truck | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Minivans | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Van | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Electric Car | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Hybrid Car | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| Multi Car | $120 – $240 | $165 – $325 | $210 – $420 |
| Exotic Car | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Luxury Car | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Classic Car | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Vintage car | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| Sports Car | $240 – $480 | $330 – $660 | $420 – $840 |
| Leased cars | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
| 2 Door | $95 – $190 | $130 – $255 | $165 – $330 |
Here’s a table showing the average car insurance costs range in Ottawa for a driver profile of age 35, married, based on the driving history:
| Driving History | Monthly Cost (Liability only) | Monthly Cost (Liability + Collision) | Monthly Cost (Full coverage) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 one at-fault accident | $130 – $260 | $185 – $370 | $240 – $480 |
| 2 one at-fault accident | $225 – $450 | $315 – $630 | $405 – $810 |
| 1 non-fault accident | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| DUI conviction | $400 – $800 | $560 – $1120 | $720 – $1440 |
| 1 Speeding Ticket | $70 – $140 | $95 – $185 | $120 – $240 |
| 2 Speeding Tickets | $130 – $260 | $185 – $370 | $240 – $480 |
How Does Ottawa’s Average Car Insurance Cost Compare to Other Cities in Ontario?
Here is a list of average car insurance rates in Ontario cities, including Ottawa:
- Toronto: $2,100 – $2,600
- Brampton: $2,000 – $2,500
- Mississauga: $1,800 – $2,200
- Vaughan: $1,600 – $2,000
- Markham: $1,500 – $1,900
- Hamilton: $1,400 – $1,800
- Ottawa: $1,200 – $1,600
- London: $1,100 – $1,500
- Kitchener: $1,000 – $1,400
- Windsor: $900 – $1,300
Which Car Has the Cheapest Car Insurance in Ottawa?
In general, some cars that may have lower insurance rates in Ottawa include:
- Honda Civic – $1,387
- Toyota Corolla – $1,376
- Hyundai Elantra – $1,343
- Mazda3 – $1,329
- Ford Focus – $1,342
How to Get the Cheapest Car Insurance in Ottawa?
Here are some additional tips for getting the cheapest car insurance in Ottawa that are specific to the city:
- Choose a low-risk area: Where you live in Ottawa can impact your insurance rates. Consider choosing a neighborhood or area that is considered low-risk for accidents or theft.
- Use public transportation: If you live in the downtown area of Ottawa, you may be able to save money on car insurance by using public transportation instead of driving. Some insurance providers offer discounts for drivers who use public transportation.
- Use winter tires: Ottawa experiences severe winter weather, and using winter tires can help keep you safe on the roads. Some insurance providers offer discounts for drivers who use winter tires.
- Avoid high-risk behaviors: In addition to safe driving practices, insurance providers may also consider other factors when setting your rates, such as your credit score and the type of job you have. Avoid high-risk behaviors, such as drinking and driving, and maintain a good credit score to help lower your insurance premiums.
- Consider telematics: Some insurance providers offer usage-based insurance that allows you to pay for insurance based on how much you drive and how safely you drive. Consider using telematics to help lower your insurance premiums if you are a safe and low-mileage driver.
Ottawa Car Insurance Facts
Here are some car insurance facts that are specific to Ottawa:
- Average car insurance rates: As of 2021, the average annual car insurance premium in Ottawa is around $1,200 to $1,500.
- High-risk area: Ottawa is considered a high-risk area for car insurance due to its high population density and high number of car accidents.
- Winter driving: Ottawa experiences severe winter weather, including snow and ice. Be sure to adjust your driving to suit the weather conditions and prepare your vehicle for winter driving, such as using winter tires and ensuring your brakes and other systems are in good working order.
- Driving in the downtown core: Driving in the downtown area of Ottawa can be challenging, with heavy traffic and strict parking regulations. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the city’s parking rules and consider using public transportation or walking to avoid the hassle of driving in the downtown core.
- Insurance fraud: Ontario has a high rate of insurance fraud, which can contribute to higher insurance rates. Be sure to only work with reputable insurance providers and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
- Discounts: Many insurance providers offer discounts for things like safe driving, multiple policies, and low mileage. Be sure to ask about any available discounts that you may be eligible for to help lower your insurance premiums.
- Distracted driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents in Ottawa, and Ontario as a whole. It’s important to avoid distracted driving behaviors, such as using your phone or eating while driving, to help reduce the risk of accidents.
List of Best Car Insurance Companies in Ottawa
Here are some of the best car insurance companies in Ottawa, along with a brief description of each and reviews from across the internet:
- Allstate Insurance Canada: Allstate is a well-known insurance company that offers a variety of coverage options, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their excellent customer service and competitive rates.
- Belairdirect: Belairdirect is a Canadian insurance company that specializes in car insurance. They offer a range of coverage options, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and fast claims processing.
- TD Insurance: TD Insurance is a Canadian insurance company that offers a range of coverage options, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
- State Farm: State Farm is a well-known insurance company that offers a variety of coverage options, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
- Intact Insurance: Intact Insurance is a Canadian insurance company that offers a range of coverage options, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent claims service.
- Co-operators Insurance: Co-operators Insurance is a Canadian insurance company that offers a range of coverage options, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
- Desjardins Insurance: Desjardins Insurance is a Canadian insurance company that offers a range of coverage options, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and fast claims processing.
List of Best Car Insurance Brokers in Ottawa
Here are some of the best independent car insurance brokers in Ottawa, along with a brief description of each and reviews from across the internet:
- Ogilvy Insurance: Ogilvy Insurance is an independent insurance broker that has been serving the Ottawa area for over 90 years. They offer a range of insurance products, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their excellent customer service and personalized approach.
- Palladium Insurance: Palladium Insurance is an independent insurance broker that offers a range of insurance products, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
- InsureMy: InsureMy is an independent insurance broker that offers a range of insurance products, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their easy-to-use website and personalized approach.
- Rhodes & Williams Insurance Brokers: Rhodes & Williams is an independent insurance broker that offers a range of insurance products, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
- Dalton Timmis Insurance: Dalton Timmis is an independent insurance broker that offers a range of insurance products, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
- Secure Insurance Solutions: Secure Insurance Solutions is an independent insurance broker that offers a range of insurance products, including car insurance. They have received high ratings from customers for their competitive rates and excellent customer service.
Tips for Drivers in Ottawa
Here are some tips for drivers in Ottawa that are specific to the city:
- Winter driving: Ottawa experiences harsh winter weather, including snow and ice. It’s important to prepare your vehicle for winter driving by using winter tires and ensuring your brakes and other systems are in good working order. You should also adjust your driving to suit the weather conditions, such as slowing down and increasing your following distance.
- Be cautious on rural roads: Ottawa has many rural roads that can be narrow and winding. Be sure to drive cautiously and stay alert for wildlife, as collisions with animals are not uncommon.
- Avoid downtown traffic: Driving in the downtown area of Ottawa can be challenging due to heavy traffic and strict parking regulations. Consider using public transportation or walking to avoid the hassle of driving in the downtown core.
- Stay alert for cyclists and pedestrians: Ottawa has many bike paths and pedestrian areas, so it’s important to stay alert for cyclists and pedestrians while driving. Be sure to give them plenty of space and yield to them when necessary.
- Beware of construction zones: Ottawa has many construction zones, particularly during the summer months. Be sure to obey all signs and slow down in these areas to ensure the safety of yourself and the workers.
- Know the laws: Be sure to familiarize yourself with Ontario’s driving laws, such as the mandatory use of seat belts and the ban on handheld devices while driving.
What are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Ottawa?
According to Ottawa Police data, the following intersections have been identified as the most dangerous in Ottawa in terms of the number of collisions:
- Hunt Club Road and Riverside Drive
- Bank Street and Heron Road
- Bank Street and Walkley Road
- Baseline Road and Woodroffe Avenue
- Carling Avenue and Merivale Road
- Hunt Club Road and Prince of Wales Drive
- Bank Street and Hunt Club Road
- Hunt Club Road and Uplands Drive
- Hunt Club Road and Bank Street
- Greenbank Road and Hunt Club Road
Total Reportable Collisions in Ottawa, 2013 – 2021
Here are the total reportable collisions in Ottawa from 2013 to 2021, based on data provided by the Ottawa Police:
- 2013: 11,423
- 2014: 11,641
- 2015: 11,875
- 2016: 11,523
- 2017: 11,830
- 2018: 11,708
- 2019: 11,327
- 2020: 9,692
- 2021: data not yet available
About the Author: Valerie D. Hahn
Valerie is an insurance editor, journalist, and business professional at RateLab. She has more than 15 years of experience in personal financial products. She strives to educate readers and ensure that they are properly protected.
