In Calgary, driving isn’t always easy. Drivers must contend with rapidly changing weather and heavy traffic at rush hour. Regardless, you’ll always need auto insurance, whether you’re a commuter, weekend adventurer, or occasional driver.
Average Car Insurance Costs in Calgary and Alberta
Although Alberta has a private insurance market, insurance rates are still regulated by the provincial government. There are two agencies in Alberta that oversee auto insurance rates: the Auto Insurance Rate Board and the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance.
In 2004, Alberta implemented a premium net for auto insurers, establishing maximum premium levels for basic coverage. The grid takes into account where you live, the number of years you’ve had your license, the number of claims you’ve had in the last six years, and how many driving convictions you have on your record. But it’s still important to shop around because even with the premium network, auto insurance rates vary wildly within Alberta.
If you are 25 or younger in Alberta, you are considered young and will pay around $187/month for Alberta car insurance. However, as you get older, your premiums will decrease. For example, he will pay about $152/month between the ages of 31 and 35, about $122/month between the ages of 46 and 50, and about $100/month between the ages of 56 and 60.
Auto insurance rates in Alberta are determined by a variety of factors:
- your gender and age
- your driving experience
- Type of vehicle you drive
- Location and use of your vehicle
- Your driving record
- The amount of coverage you have selected
How to get the cheapest car insurance in Alberta
- Compare rates between multiple companies and don’t feel like you have to stick with the insurers your parents used. There are many insurance providers available, and they often use competitive pricing, which means that different providers may offer the same policies at very different prices. Talk to a broker (who compares Calgary auto insurance rates for you) or use online tools to see where you can get the best rate for the coverage that’s right for you. Also, reading car insurance reviews will help you avoid unexpected problems. Search for opinions online using blogs and forums.
- Sometimes you can get better rates by bypassing the broker or agent and dealing with a direct insurer, such as Belairdirect or TD Insurance.
- Use rate tools and calculators. For example, if your credit card includes rental car protection, you can save 20 percent by paying with it. You can use a credit card navigation tool to help you find compatible rental car insurance with value add-ons on your credit card. You can also use an insurance price comparison tool to compare insurance premiums.
- Bundle your Calgary auto insurance with other policies. For example, if you have multiple vehicles and a home to insure, you can bundle them with one insurance company for a bundle discount. Insurance companies reward their clients for giving them more business.
- If you bought your policy you were a smoker and you can show that you have since quit smoking and have not smoked again for at least a year, your insurance premiums will be reduced. Smokers often pay double the premiums!
- Invest in driving a hybrid vehicle. By buying a hybrid, you can save on more than just gas! Check with your insurance company to see if they offer discounts for hybrid vehicles.