What is temporary car insurance?
Temporary car insurance, also known as short-term car insurance, is a type of car insurance coverage that provides coverage for a limited period of time, typically ranging from one day to several months. It is designed for people who need insurance coverage for a short period of time, such as when they are borrowing or renting a car, or for those who may only need insurance for a specific event or trip.
Temporary car insurance policies generally provide the same types of coverage as a standard car insurance policy, including liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage. However, the coverage period is limited, and the policy will typically only cover the vehicle and driver listed on the policy.
What Does Temporary Insurance Cover?
Temporary car insurance in Canada generally covers the same types of coverage as a standard car insurance policy, including:
- Liability coverage: This covers damages or injury that you cause to others while driving your car.
- Collision coverage: This covers damages to your car if you are involved in a collision, regardless of who is at fault.
- Comprehensive coverage: This covers damages to your car due to events like theft, fire, or natural disasters.
The exact coverage options available under a temporary car insurance policy may vary by insurance provider and by province, so it’s important to review the policy details carefully to ensure that you have the coverage you need.
Common reasons are for temporary car insurance in Canada
Here are some common reasons for obtaining temporary car insurance in Canada:
- Borrowing or renting a car: If you are borrowing or renting a car for a short period of time, temporary car insurance can provide coverage for the duration of your rental or borrowing period.
- Short-term car ownership: If you have recently purchased a car but will not be driving it regularly, temporary car insurance can provide coverage while you wait for your standard car insurance policy to take effect.
- Covering a guest driver: If you have a guest or family member visiting who will be driving your car, temporary car insurance can provide coverage for the duration of their visit.
- Covering a new driver: If you have a new driver in your household who is learning to drive, temporary car insurance can provide coverage while they gain experience behind the wheel.
- Seasonal or infrequent use: If you only use your car seasonally or infrequently, temporary car insurance can provide coverage for the times when you are actually driving the car.
Temporary car insurance options in Canada
In Canada, temporary car insurance options vary by province. Here is a detailed look at temporary car insurance options in some of the provinces:
British Columbia: In BC, you can obtain temporary car insurance for a rental vehicle, or for a vehicle you are borrowing or loaning. This type of insurance is typically offered for a period of up to 28 days.
Alberta: In Alberta, temporary car insurance can be obtained for a rental vehicle or for a vehicle you are borrowing or loaning. This type of insurance is typically offered for a period of up to 28 days.
Ontario: In Ontario, you can obtain temporary car insurance for a rental vehicle, or for a vehicle you are borrowing or loaning. This type of insurance is typically offered for a period of up to 28 days.
Quebec: In Quebec, you can obtain temporary car insurance for a rental vehicle or for a vehicle you are borrowing or loaning. This type of insurance is typically offered for a period of up to 28 days.
Saskatchewan: In Saskatchewan, you can obtain temporary car insurance for a rental vehicle or for a vehicle you are borrowing or loaning. This type of insurance is typically offered for a period of up to 21 days.
It’s important to keep in mind that these are just general guidelines and the specific details of temporary car insurance options in each province can vary based on the insurance provider and the type of coverage being offered.
If you are in need of temporary car insurance, it’s a good idea to speak with an insurance provider directly to determine what options are available to you and what coverage is required.
Short-Term Insurance For Six Months
Yes, it is possible to obtain short-term car insurance in Canada for a period of six months. Many insurance providers in Canada offer flexible options for car insurance coverage, including the option to obtain coverage for a limited period of time.
The specific options available to you will depend on the insurance provider you choose, as well as the province you reside in. Some insurance providers may offer coverage for a minimum of one month, with the option to extend the coverage for longer periods of time, while others may offer coverage for a minimum of six months.
It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of short-term car insurance may be higher compared to a standard car insurance policy that covers a full year, due to the limited duration of the coverage.
How Much Is Temporary Car Insurance?
Please note that these are just general estimates, and the actual cost of temporary car insurance will depend on various factors such as age, driving record, type of car, coverage levels, and the insurance company you choose. Additionally, temporary car insurance is typically more expensive than traditional annual insurance policies, so it’s important to shop around and compare quotes to get the best deal.
Ontario:
- Toronto: A 30-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $50-$100 per day or $300-$500 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Ottawa: A 25-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $40-$80 per day or $250-$400 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Hamilton: A 35-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $45-$90 per day or $275-$450 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- London: A 28-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $35-$70 per day or $225-$350 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Windsor: A 33-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $40-$80 per day or $250-$400 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
Alberta:
- Calgary: A 30-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $40-$80 per day or $250-$400 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Edmonton: A 25-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $35-$70 per day or $225-$350 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Red Deer: A 35-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $40-$80 per day or $250-$400 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Lethbridge: A 28-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $35-$70 per day or $225-$350 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Medicine Hat: A 33-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $40-$80 per day or $250-$400 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
Quebec:
- Montreal: A 30-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $35-$70 per day or $225-$350 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Quebec City: A 25-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $30-$60 per day or $200-$300 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Gatineau: A 35-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $30-$60 per day or $200-$300 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Sherbrooke: A 28-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $30-$60 per day or $200-$300 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Trois-Rivieres: A 33-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $30-$60 per day or $200-$300 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
Nova Scotia:
- Halifax: A 30-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $30-$60 per day or $200-$300 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Sydney: A 25-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $25-$50 per day or $175-$250 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Dartmouth: A 35-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $30-$60 per day or $200-$300 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Truro: A 28-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $25-$50 per day or $175-$250 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
- Yarmouth: A 33-year-old driver with a clean record could expect to pay around $25-$50 per day or $175-$250 per week for temporary car insurance, depending on the coverage levels.
Again, these are just general estimates and the actual cost of temporary car insurance will depend on a variety of factors. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the best deal that meets your needs.
Where Can You Get Temporary Insurance In Canada?
There are several places where you can obtain temporary car insurance in Canada, including:
- Direct insurance providers: Many major insurance providers in Canada, such as Allstate, Intact, and Belairdirect, offer temporary car insurance options directly to consumers. These providers often offer online quote tools that allow you to compare coverage options and premium costs.
- Insurance brokers: Insurance brokers specialize in helping consumers find the right insurance coverage for their needs. Many insurance brokers in Canada offer temporary car insurance options, and can help you compare coverage options from multiple insurance providers to find the best policy for your needs.
- Car rental companies: If you are renting a car, the car rental company may offer temporary insurance coverage as part of the rental package. This type of coverage is often more limited than a standard car insurance policy, so it’s important to review the coverage details carefully to ensure that you have the protection you need.
- Online insurance providers: There are also a number of online insurance providers in Canada that offer temporary car insurance coverage. These providers often use technology to streamline the quoting process, allowing you to obtain a quote and purchase coverage quickly and easily.
Here is an overview of the availability of temporary car insurance by province in Canada:
- Ontario: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods ranging from one week to six months are commonly available in Ontario.
- British Columbia: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to three months are typically available in British Columbia.
- Quebec: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in Quebec.
- Alberta: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months are typically available in Alberta.
- Manitoba: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in Manitoba.
- Saskatchewan: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in Saskatchewan.
- Nova Scotia: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in Nova Scotia.
- New Brunswick: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in New Brunswick.
- Prince Edward Island: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in Prince Edward Island.
- Newfoundland and Labrador: Temporary car insurance options with coverage periods of one week to six months may be available in Newfoundland and Labrador.
It’s important to note that the specific options available to you will depend on the insurance provider you choose and the specific regulations in your province, so it’s best to consult with a local insurance provider or broker to determine the options available to you.
Temporary Car Insurance Canada FAQs
- What is temporary car insurance? Temporary car insurance is a type of auto insurance policy that provides short-term coverage for a vehicle. It is usually purchased for a period of a few days to a few months, and is commonly used when borrowing or renting a car, or when driving a car for a short period of time.
- How is temporary car insurance different from regular car insurance? Temporary car insurance is typically more expensive than regular car insurance, as it provides coverage for a shorter period of time. It also usually has more flexible coverage options, allowing you to choose the amount and type of coverage you need for the specific period of time you’ll be driving.
- Who can purchase temporary car insurance? In Canada, anyone with a valid driver’s license and a need for short-term coverage can purchase temporary car insurance. However, insurance companies may have specific requirements regarding age, driving experience, and other factors.
- What does temporary car insurance cover? Temporary car insurance typically provides coverage for the same things as regular car insurance, such as liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. However, the amount and type of coverage can vary depending on the specific policy and insurance company.
- How much does temporary car insurance cost in Canada? The cost of temporary car insurance in Canada varies depending on a variety of factors, such as the driver’s age, driving record, type of car, coverage levels, and the insurance company. It is generally more expensive than regular car insurance, as it provides coverage for a shorter period of time.
- How do I purchase temporary car insurance in Canada? To purchase temporary car insurance in Canada, you can contact an insurance broker or an insurance company directly. You will need to provide information about yourself, the vehicle you’ll be driving, and the period of time you need coverage for. The insurance company will then provide you with a quote for the policy.
- Can I cancel temporary car insurance if I no longer need it? Yes, you can cancel temporary car insurance if you no longer need it. However, there may be cancellation fees or penalties, depending on the insurance company and the specific policy. It’s important to read the policy terms and conditions carefully before purchasing temporary car insurance.
- Can I purchase temporary car insurance online in Canada? Yes, many insurance companies in Canada offer the option to purchase temporary car insurance online. You can visit the company’s website, fill out an application form, and receive a quote for the policy. However, it’s always a good idea to research the company and read reviews before making a purchase online.
- How long does it take to get temporary car insurance in Canada? The process of getting temporary car insurance in Canada can vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy. In some cases, you may be able to get coverage immediately after purchasing the policy. In other cases, there may be a waiting period of a few days before coverage begins.
- Can I use temporary car insurance to cross the border into the United States? Yes, temporary car insurance policies in Canada can typically be used to drive in the United States, as long as the policy includes coverage for international travel. However, it’s always a good idea to check the policy terms and conditions, as well as the laws and requirements for driving in the United States.
- How does temporary car insurance affect my driving record? Temporary car insurance, like regular car insurance, is designed to protect you in the event of an accident or other incident while driving. However, if you are involved in an accident or receive a ticket while driving with temporary car insurance, it can still affect your driving record and may result in higher insurance premiums in the future.
- Is temporary car insurance the same as rental car insurance? No, temporary car insurance is not the same as rental car insurance. Rental car insurance is a type of coverage offered by rental car companies to protect against damage or theft of the rental vehicle, while temporary car insurance provides coverage for a vehicle that you own or borrow for a short period of time. However, you may be able to purchase temporary car insurance to cover a rental car, depending on the insurance company and the specific policy.
- Is temporary car insurance required by law in Canada? In most cases, yes, car insurance is required by law in Canada. Each province has its own laws and regulations regarding auto insurance, but all provinces require a minimum amount of liability insurance to be carried by drivers. Temporary car insurance can be used to meet this requirement, but it’s important to make sure that the policy meets the minimum coverage levels required by law.
- How long can I purchase temporary car insurance for? The length of time for which you can purchase temporary car insurance in Canada can vary depending on the insurance company and the specific policy. Some policies may only provide coverage for a few days, while others may offer coverage for up to several months. It’s important to carefully review the policy terms and conditions to make sure that you have the coverage you need for the specific period of time you’ll be driving.
- Can I purchase temporary car insurance for a commercial vehicle? In Canada, temporary car insurance is typically only available for personal use vehicles. If you need coverage for a commercial vehicle, you may need to purchase a commercial auto insurance policy, which is designed to provide coverage for vehicles used for business purposes.
- Can I get temporary car insurance if I have a poor driving record? It may be more difficult to get temporary car insurance if you have a poor driving record, as insurance companies may see you as a higher risk. However, some insurance companies may still offer coverage, although the premiums may be higher than for drivers with a clean record. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the best deal.
- Can I add temporary car insurance to an existing auto insurance policy? In some cases, it may be possible to add temporary car insurance to an existing auto insurance policy. This can be a good option if you already have an auto insurance policy but need additional coverage for a short period of time. However, it’s important to check with your insurance company to see if this is possible and to find out what the additional premium will be.
- Can I purchase temporary car insurance for a car that is not registered in my name? It may be possible to purchase temporary car insurance for a car that is not registered in your name, but this can be more difficult than purchasing insurance for a car that you own. The insurance company may require proof of ownership or permission from the registered owner of the vehicle.
- What happens if I get into an accident while driving with temporary car insurance? If you get into an accident while driving with temporary car insurance, you should follow the same steps as you would with a regular auto insurance policy. This includes exchanging information with the other driver, taking pictures of the damage, and reporting the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance company will then handle the claim and provide coverage for any damages or injuries.
- Is temporary car insurance more expensive than regular car insurance? Yes, temporary car insurance is typically more expensive than regular car insurance, as it provides coverage for a shorter period of time. The cost of temporary car insurance will depend on a variety of factors, including the driver’s age, driving record, type of car, coverage levels, and the insurance company. It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the best deal.
About the Author: Valerie D. Hahn
