If you aren’t aware of this news already, all Barrie, Orillia, and the rest of Ontario drivers who have winter tires will receive a discount on car insurance when the 2015 Ontario budget was passed successfully. However, with this change, it’s important to know that it will also result in higher deductibles and less rehab coverage after an accident for some drivers. The Will Marshall team is here to keep you informed and updated!
Where Does this Stem from?
The decision is part of the government’s 2013 commitment to cutting auto insurance costs by 15 percent by this year. While we’re not quite there yet, average car insurance rates are currently down by roughly seven percent.
Winter Tire Discount
All Ontario insurers must provide something by January 1, 2016, but according to provincial finance minister Charles Sousa’s office, says about 45 percent of them currently already do this. The discount will vary as there is no set amount that must be met, but typically it will fall between 3 and 5 per cent. Compliance will be monitored by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario, the provincial regulator to ensure this discount is being implemented. It’s important to keep in mind that the discount is also made per car, meaning if one of your vehicles has snow tires and the other doesn’t, the discount will be cut in half.
The Importance of Winter Tires
If you currently don’t have winter tires on your vehicle, we highly recommend them. Winter tires increase safety and limit the likelihood of collisions by improving traction, braking, and handling in frost, snow, slush and in cold, icy road conditions. Did you know that winter tires that are in quality condition can shorten braking distances by up to 25 percent?
Consider the following when purchasing your winter tires:
• Seek out tires marked with a logo of a peaked mountain with a snowflake
• Install winter tires in sets of four
• Do not mix tires with alternative tread patterns and/or size
• Replace tires that are worn down to the tread-wear indicators
• Check the air pressure of the tires at least once a month
For more information on our car insurance rates, including winter tire discounts, please get in touch with Will Marshall. Call us today for free car insurance quotes in Barrie, Orillia or Simcoe County, at 705-726-2551.