1. System Type:

In Quebec, the car insurance system is unique compared to the rest of Canada. The system is a mix of no-fault insurance for bodily injuries and a tort system for property damages. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Bodily Injury:
   • The province operates a no-fault insurance system when it comes to bodily injuries sustained in automobile accidents.
   • This means if you’re injured in an accident in Quebec, regardless of who is at fault, you would claim benefits from the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) instead of through a private insurer.
   • The no-fault system also means that Quebecers cannot sue for bodily injuries resulting from an auto accident.
   • The SAAQ provides compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost income, and other related costs.
2. Property Damage:
   • For property damages, such as damages to your vehicle or other personal property, the traditional fault-based (tort) system is in place.
   • Under this system, you can make a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy.
   • This means that private insurance plays a role here, and Quebec drivers must have third-party liability coverage of at least $50,000. This coverage protects drivers if they are at fault in an accident and cause damage to another person’s property or injure someone outside of Quebec.
3. Additional Coverages:
   • While the third-party liability coverage is mandatory, many drivers opt for additional private insurance coverages like collision (covers damages to your car when you’re at fault) or comprehensive (covers non-collision-related incidents, like theft).
4. Premiums:
   • Premiums for the mandatory portion related to bodily injuries are included in the vehicle registration fees paid to the SAAQ.
   • Premiums for property damage and any other additional coverage are determined by private insurance companies based on factors such as the make and model of the car, the driver’s history, and where the driver lives.

Overall, Quebec’s system aims to quickly compensate and support those injured in car accidents without the need for lengthy legal battles over fault, at least for bodily injuries. However, for property damage, determining fault and liability is still a necessary part of the process.

2. Coverage for Bodily Injury:

In Quebec, coverage for bodily injuries stemming from an automobile accident is handled by the provincial government through the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). This public insurance plan is unique and is designed to cover all Quebec residents, whether they are drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or cyclists.

Here’s a summary of the coverage provided by the SAAQ for bodily injuries:

1. Medical and Rehabilitation Costs:
   • The SAAQ covers the costs of medical care, medications, and rehabilitation required as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident.
2. Income Replacement:
   • If you are unable to work due to injuries from the accident, the SAAQ provides income replacement. The amount you receive depends on your income prior to the accident and other specific conditions.
3. Physical and Occupational Rehabilitation:
   • The SAAQ provides rehabilitation services to help the injured person regain their physical capacities and reintegrate into the workforce.
4. Death Benefits:
   • In the unfortunate event of a fatality, the SAAQ provides compensation to the deceased’s dependents. This can include a lump-sum payment to the spouse and dependent children, as well as coverage of funeral expenses.
5. Indemnities for Non-Economic Damages:
   • This compensation covers non-material damages, such as physical and psychological suffering. The amount varies based on the severity of the injuries.
6. Assistance for Spouses and Children:
   • If the injured person requires assistance in performing everyday activities, compensation can be provided to the person assisting them.
7. Other Benefits:
   • Depending on the circumstances, the SAAQ might offer other forms of compensation or support, such as adapting a vehicle for someone who has become disabled as a result of the accident.

The no-fault system in Quebec ensures that individuals receive timely compensation for their injuries without the need to determine fault or go through litigation. It’s worth noting that this system also means Quebecers cannot sue for bodily injuries sustained in an auto accident within the province. However, for accidents that occur outside Quebec, the ability to sue might be possible based on the rules of the jurisdiction where the accident took place.

3. Coverage for Property Damage:

In Quebec, while bodily injuries resulting from an automobile accident are covered by the provincial government through the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), property damage is dealt with differently. For property damage, the traditional fault-based (tort) system is in place, and it’s covered by private insurers. Here’s a breakdown of the coverages related to property damage:

1. Civil Liability (Third-Party Liability):
   • This is the mandatory coverage in Quebec for property damage.
   • It protects drivers if they are at fault in an accident and cause damage to another person’s property or if they injure someone outside Quebec.
   • The minimum required coverage is $50,000, but many drivers choose to increase this limit for better protection.
2. Collision (or Upset) Coverage:
   • This is optional coverage that protects your vehicle if it’s damaged as a result of a collision with another vehicle or object (like a tree or guardrail).
   • This covers damages to your car when you’re at fault, or if the other party is unidentified (like in a hit-and-run).
3. Comprehensive Coverage:
   • This is another optional coverage that protects your vehicle from non-collision-related risks.
   • It covers things like theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters (like hail or floods), and impacts with animals.
4. Specified Perils:
   • This optional coverage protects against specific risks that you choose, like theft or fire. It’s a more limited version of comprehensive coverage.
5. All Perils:
   • Combining both Collision and Comprehensive coverages, All Perils is the broadest type of coverage and includes all risks, except those specifically excluded in the policy.
6. Endorsement 43 (Replacement Insurance):
   • It’s an optional coverage that ensures, in case of total loss or theft of your vehicle, you’ll get a new vehicle of the same make and model, or a financial compensation determined at the time of your contract.
   • This is typically taken in lieu of the standard Endorsement 5 which provides for the replacement of the car based on its actual cash value.
7. Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD):
   • In some accidents where you are not at fault, you can claim from your own insurer for damages to your vehicle under the Direct Compensation Property Damage section of your policy.

4. No-Fault System:

In Quebec, the car insurance framework features a unique “no-fault” system, particularly when it pertains to bodily injuries. This system ensures that individuals receive compensation for bodily injuries from automobile accidents without needing to determine who is at fault. Here’s a closer look at the no-fault system in Quebec:

1. Bodily Injury Compensation:
   • If someone is injured in an automobile accident in Quebec, they claim compensation for bodily injuries from the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) regardless of who caused the accident.
   • This system is designed to provide quick compensation and support without the need for long legal battles or investigations into fault.
2. No Lawsuits for Bodily Injury:
   • One of the most significant implications of the no-fault system is that Quebec residents cannot sue for bodily injuries resulting from a car accident that occurred in the province. The aim is to streamline the compensation process and to avoid the costs and time associated with legal proceedings.
3. Coverage by SAAQ:
   • The SAAQ provides various types of compensation to accident victims, including covering medical and rehabilitation expenses, providing income replacement for those unable to work due to their injuries, and offering other benefits depending on the severity and nature of the injuries.
4. Property Damage is Excluded:
   • The no-fault system in Quebec applies exclusively to bodily injuries. Property damage, on the other hand, operates under a fault-based system.
   • This means if your car or other personal property is damaged in an accident, you or the at-fault party’s private insurance company will handle the claim based on the rules of fault.
5. Advantages of the No-Fault System:
   • Quick Compensation: Victims don’t need to wait for fault determination or court decisions to receive compensation.
   • Reduced Legal Battles: The system reduces the number of lawsuits related to car accidents.
   • Predictability: Victims have a clear understanding of the benefits they’re entitled to.
6. Potential Disadvantages:
   • Limited Compensation: Compensation amounts are predetermined based on the SAAQ’s scale, which might not cover all the actual expenses or losses faced by a victim.
   • No Legal Recourse: Victims can’t sue for additional compensation, even if they believe they deserve more than what the SAAQ provides.

In summary, Quebec’s no-fault system simplifies the compensation process for bodily injuries from car accidents. However, it’s essential to remember that this system doesn’t apply to property damage, which is handled by private insurance companies based on fault determination.

5. Premiums:

Here’s an overview of average annual car insurance rates for some of the top cities in Quebec:

1. Montreal: ~$800 – $1,200
2. Quebec City: ~$700 – $1,100
3. Laval: ~$750 – $1,150
4. Gatineau: ~$700 – $1,050
5. Longueuil: ~$750 – $1,100
6. Sherbrooke: ~$650 – $1,000
7. Saguenay: ~$650 – $950
8. Lévis: ~$650 – $1,000
9. Trois-Rivières: ~$650 – $950
10. Terrebonne: ~$700 – $1,050
11. Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu: ~$650 – $950
12. Repentigny: ~$675 – $975
13. Brossard: ~$725 – $1,025
14. Drummondville: ~$625 – $925
15. Saint-Jérôme: ~$675 – $975
16. Granby: ~$650 – $900
17. Blainville: ~$700 – $1,000
18. Saint-Hyacinthe: ~$625 – $900
19. Dollard-des-Ormeaux: ~$750 – $1,050
20. Rimouski: ~$600 – $875
21. Châteauguay: ~$700 – $1,000
22. Victoriaville: ~$600 – $875
23. Saint-Eustache: ~$675 – $950
24. Rouyn-Noranda: ~$600 – $850
25. Boucherville: ~$725 – $1,025
26. Salaberry-de-Valleyfield: ~$650 – $900
27. Côte Saint-Luc: ~$775 – $1,075
28. Val-d’Or: ~$600 – $850
29. Pointe-Claire: ~$750 – $1,050
30. Alma: ~$600 – $850

Factors Affecting Car Insurance Premiums:

1. Driving History:
   • A clean driving record with no accidents or traffic violations can result in lower premiums. Conversely, drivers with histories of accidents or serious traffic infractions can expect to pay more.
2. Vehicle Type:
   • The make, model, and age of a vehicle play a role in determining premiums. Generally, newer, luxury, or sports cars cost more to insure than older or more common models.
3. Usage of the Vehicle:
   • If you use your vehicle for commuting long distances daily, you might pay more than someone who only drives occasionally.
4. Location:
   • Living in urban areas with higher traffic density can result in higher premiums compared to rural areas. Moreover, areas with high theft rates might also have higher premiums.
5. Driver’s Age and Experience:
   • Young drivers, especially those under 25, usually pay more due to their lack of driving experience. However, rates typically decrease as drivers age and gain more experience.
6. Coverage Choices:
   • Opting for higher coverage limits or lower deductibles can increase your premium. Additionally, adding optional coverages like collision and comprehensive can also affect the rate.
7. Deductible Amount:
   • A higher deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket in the event of a claim) typically results in a lower premium, while a lower deductible might mean a higher premium.
8. Discounts:
   • Many insurance companies offer discounts for various reasons, such as multi-vehicle policies, bundling home and auto insurance, or installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle.
9. Payment Plan:
   • Some insurers might offer a discount if you pay your premium annually instead of monthly.
10. Membership & Affiliations:
    • Being a member of certain associations or groups might get you a discount with some insurers.

Additional Tips for Quebec Residents:

• Shop Around: Always compare rates from different insurers. Sometimes, switching providers can result in significant savings.
• Ask About Discounts: Always inquire about available discounts when renewing or purchasing a policy.
• Review Annually: Your circumstances and available insurance options can change, so review your policy and shop around regularly.
• Increase Your Deductible: If you’re willing to pay a higher deductible in case of a claim, you can often reduce your premium.
• Driver Training: New drivers might benefit from recognized driver training programs, which can lead to lower rates.
• Winter Tires: Some insurers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with winter tires during the colder months.

6. Deductibles:

In car insurance, a deductible is the amount of money a policyholder must pay out-of-pocket towards a claim before the insurance coverage kicks in. Deductibles are a standard feature in many insurance policies, not just for cars, and they can impact the overall cost of your insurance premium.

In Quebec, as with many places, deductibles apply primarily to collision and comprehensive coverages. Here’s a deeper look at deductibles in the context of Quebec’s car insurance:

1. Purpose of Deductibles:
   • Deductibles are in place to discourage small claims and to share the risk between the insurance company and the policyholder.
   • By having a deductible, policyholders have a financial stake in the prevention of claims, and it also reduces administrative costs for smaller claims for the insurer.
2. Amount:
   • The amount of the deductible can vary. Common amounts in Quebec might range from $250 to $1,000 or more.
   • When choosing a deductible, it’s essential to balance the annual savings you might get from a higher deductible with the amount you’re comfortable paying out-of-pocket in the event of a claim.
3. Impact on Premiums:
   • Generally, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium, and vice versa. By choosing a higher deductible, you’re assuming more of the financial responsibility in the event of a claim, which in turn lowers your insurance premium.
4. Collision Coverage Deductible:
   • This applies when you claim for damages to your vehicle due to a collision with another vehicle or object, or if your car rolls over.
   • If you’re at fault or if the fault is shared, you’ll pay the deductible, and your insurer will cover the rest up to your policy’s limit. If you’re not at fault, in most cases in Quebec, the Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) applies, and you won’t have to pay the deductible.
5. Comprehensive Coverage Deductible:
   • This covers non-collision damages like theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. The deductible applies each time you make a claim under this coverage.
6. Choosing the Right Deductible:
   • Your choice should be based on what you can afford to pay out-of-pocket and how much risk you’re willing to assume.
   • If you’re in a position to cover a $1,000 expense without financial strain, you might choose a higher deductible to benefit from lower premiums. However, if an unexpected $1,000 expense would be a burden, you might opt for a lower deductible and slightly higher premiums.
7. Making a Claim:
   • When you make a claim, you’ll pay the deductible amount directly to the repair shop or service provider, and the insurance company will pay the remainder of the approved amount.

7. Mandatory Coverages:

In Quebec, automobile insurance coverage is divided between a government-run insurance plan for bodily injuries and private insurance for property damage. The mandatory coverages in Quebec ensure that drivers are financially protected in the event of an accident. Here are the mandatory coverages for car insurance in Quebec:

1. Civil Liability (Third-Party Liability) Coverage:
   • This coverage is required by all drivers in Quebec and is provided through private insurers.
   • It protects drivers if they are at fault in an accident that causes property damage or bodily injury to someone outside of Quebec.
   • While the minimum required coverage is $50,000, most people opt for $1 million or more to ensure they’re adequately protected, especially if they frequently travel outside of Quebec.
2. Bodily Injury:
   • In Quebec, all residents are automatically covered for bodily injuries sustained in a car accident, regardless of whether they were at fault.
   • This coverage is provided through the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) and is funded through driver’s license and vehicle registration fees, rather than insurance premiums.
   • The coverage includes medical and rehabilitation costs, income replacement, and other related benefits.
   • Because of this no-fault system for bodily injuries, Quebecers cannot sue for bodily injuries sustained in an auto accident within the province.

While these are the mandatory coverages, many drivers in Quebec also opt for optional coverages through private insurers to further protect themselves and their vehicles. Some of these optional coverages include:

• Collision or Upset Coverage: Covers damages to your vehicle caused by a collision with another vehicle or object or by a rollover.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damages to your vehicle caused by events other than collisions, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters.
• Specified Perils Coverage: Covers damages caused by perils specifically defined in the policy, such as theft or fire, but not all the perils covered by comprehensive insurance.
• All Perils Coverage: Combines collision or upset and comprehensive coverages.

8. Optional Coverages:

In Quebec, while certain insurance coverages are mandatory, there are also several optional coverages available through private insurers. These additional coverages allow drivers to customize their insurance policies based on their personal needs and preferences. Here are some of the optional coverages available in Quebec:

1. Collision or Upset Coverage:
   • Covers damages to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle, object, or if your car rolls over.
   • Useful for newer cars or high-value vehicles where potential repair or replacement costs might be significant.
2. Comprehensive Coverage:
   • Protects against damages to your vehicle from non-collision-related incidents.
   • This includes risks like theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters (e.g., hail, flood), and impacts with animals.
   • Typically recommended for newer vehicles or those with significant value.
3. All Perils:
   • Combines both Collision and Comprehensive coverages, offering broad protection against various risks.
4. Specified Perils:
   • Similar to Comprehensive coverage, but only for specific risks listed in the policy.
   • Generally, it covers fewer risks than comprehensive but might be a more affordable option.
5. Endorsement 43 (Replacement Insurance):
   • In the event of a total loss or theft, this optional coverage ensures that you will get a new vehicle of the same make and model or a financial compensation determined at the time of your contract.
   • This can be particularly beneficial for newer vehicles, ensuring that the owner receives a new car rather than the depreciated value.
6. Coverage for Rented or Borrowed Vehicles (Endorsement 27):
   • Provides coverage if you rent a vehicle in Canada or the United States or if you borrow someone else’s vehicle.
7. Waiver of Deductible (Endorsement 21B):
   • With this endorsement, you won’t have to pay your deductible in certain situations, such as if your car is hit while parked and the responsible party cannot be identified.
8. Loss of Use (Endorsement 20):
   • This provides coverage for a rental vehicle or transportation costs (like taxis or public transit) while your vehicle is being repaired due to an insured loss.
9. Full Glass Coverage:
   • Provides coverage for repair or replacement of the windshield without a deductible.
10. Family Protection Endorsement (Q.E.F. 44R):

• Extends your liability coverage to protect you and your family members if injured by an uninsured or underinsured motorist.

These are just some of the optional coverages available in Quebec. When selecting coverages, it’s essential to consider your vehicle’s value, how you use it, and the potential costs and inconveniences of an accident or loss. Consulting with an insurance broker or agent can help you better understand and choose the right coverages for your situation.

9. Claims:

In the event of an incident that may warrant an insurance claim, it’s crucial to know how to proceed, especially in Quebec with its unique insurance structure. Here’s a general overview of the process and key considerations when making car insurance claims in Quebec:

1. Bodily Injuries:

• If there are bodily injuries resulting from an auto accident in Quebec, claims are made through the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ).
• The no-fault system ensures that every Quebec resident is automatically covered for bodily injuries, no matter whether they’re at fault or not.

2. Property Damage:

• Claims for property damage are made through your private insurer.
• If you’re at fault, or if there’s a shared fault, your insurer will compensate you based on your policy’s coverage.
• If another driver is entirely at fault, their insurer will compensate you under the Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) provision.

Steps to Follow After an Accident or Incident:

1. Ensure Safety: First and foremost, ensure that everyone is safe. If there are injuries, seek medical attention immediately.
2. Report the Incident: For significant accidents, especially those with injuries, it’s necessary to report to the police.
3. Document Everything:
   • Gather details of the other involved parties: names, contact details, insurance information, driver’s license numbers, and vehicle details.
   • Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, license plates, and any other relevant details.
   • Collect witness information if available.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company:
   • Report the incident to your private insurer as soon as possible, even if you’re not at fault. They’ll guide you on the next steps.
   • Provide them with all gathered information and cooperate fully.
5. Claims Adjuster:
   • Your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to evaluate the damages.
   • They might ask for an authorized repair shop to provide a damage estimate or might inspect the vehicle themselves.
6. Repairs:
   • If the claim is approved, the insurer will inform you on how to proceed with the repairs.
   • Some insurance companies have preferred repair shops, but you generally have the right to choose where to get the repairs done.

Tips:

• Know Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy’s details, including coverages, exclusions, and the amount of your deductible.
• Quick Reporting: Report any incident to your insurer promptly. Delays can complicate the claim process.
• Maintain Good Records: Store all documents, photos, and other evidence. Keep a log of conversations and steps taken during the claim process.
• Seek Guidance: If unsure about any step, don’t hesitate to ask your insurance agent or broker.

10. Driver’s Licensing:

In Quebec, the process of obtaining and maintaining a driver’s license is overseen by the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). The SAAQ has established a structured system to ensure drivers are well-prepared and safe on the roads. Here’s an overview of the driver’s licensing process in Quebec:

1. Class 5 Learner’s License:

• Eligibility: You must be at least 16 years old (or 15 years and 10 months if enrolled in a driving education program).
• Procedure:
  • Pass a knowledge test.
  • Pass a vision test.
  • Obtain parental consent if under 18.
  • Enroll in a driving course at a driving school recognized by the AQTr (Association québécoise des transports).
• Restrictions:
  • Must be accompanied by a person with a valid driver’s license for at least 2 years.
  • Not allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
  • Zero alcohol tolerance.

2. Probationary License:

• Eligibility: You must hold the learner’s license for at least 12 months.
• Procedure:
  • Successfully complete the driving course (both theoretical and practical components).
  • Pass the SAAQ road test.
• Restrictions:
  • Zero alcohol tolerance.
  • Not permitted to act as an accompanying rider to a learner.

3. Class 5 Driver’s License (Full License):

• Eligibility: You must hold the probationary license for 24 months without any license suspensions.
• Procedure: Automatically upgraded from the probationary license after 24 months, provided there’s no license suspension.
• Restrictions: Standard legal obligations apply, such as following speed limits, obeying traffic signals, and not driving under the influence.

4. License Renewal:

• Driver’s licenses in Quebec are typically valid for a specific period, after which they must be renewed.
• The SAAQ sends out a renewal notice before the expiration date with details on fees and the renewal process.

5. Demerit Points:

• Quebec uses a demerit point system to track traffic violations.
• Accumulating too many demerit points can lead to license suspension.

6. Insurance and License:

• While the SAAQ covers bodily injuries, drivers are required to have civil liability insurance of at least $50,000 to cover property damage.
• Proof of insurance must be kept in the vehicle at all times and presented upon request by a police officer.

7. Other Classes:

• Besides the Class 5 license for passenger vehicles, Quebec offers different classes for motorcycles, heavy vehicles, buses, and taxis.