Walking out to your car only to find it keyed, spray-painted, or damaged can be incredibly frustrating. If you're wondering whether your car insurance will help cover the repair costs, here's the straightforward answer: Vandalism damage is covered in Ontario, but only if you have comprehensive coverage as part of your auto insurance policy.
Let's start with something many Ontario drivers don't realize, your basic mandatory car insurance doesn't automatically protect you against vandalism. Surprising, right? This is why understanding your coverage is so crucial.
Think of comprehensive coverage as your car's shield against non-accident related damage. It's an optional add-on to your basic insurance policy, but it's one that can save you thousands of dollars if your vehicle becomes a target of vandalism.
You might be wondering what insurance companies consider vandalism. Well, it's more than just spray paint and keyed cars. Insurance providers typically recognize vandalism as any intentional damage to your vehicle i.e when someone deliberately damages your car by:
Here's where many Ontario drivers get confused. Our province requires all drivers to have basic auto insurance, which includes:
But notice what's missing? Vandalism protection. That's where comprehensive coverage comes in. Think of it as an extra layer of protection that goes beyond the basics.
Picture this: You walk out to your car one morning and find it's been vandalized. What should you do? Here's your step-by-step action plan:
"Will my insurance rates go up if I file a vandalism claim?" This is one of the most common questions we hear, and here's the good news: Vandalism claims are typically considered "not-at-fault" incidents. However, there's a catch, multiple claims within a short period might affect your premiums or renewals.
While insurance is crucial, preventing vandalism in the first place is even better. Here are some practical ways to protect your car:
Think smart about parking:
Wondering if comprehensive coverage is worth it for your situation? If you answer yes to any of these questions, comprehensive coverage might be right for you:
Vandalism can happen to anyone, anywhere. While comprehensive coverage isn't mandatory, it provides valuable peace of mind knowing you're protected against deliberate damage to your vehicle. Hence, it is importan to understand your options and making an informed decision based on your specific circumstances.
Insurance policies and coverage details can vary between providers, making it essential to consult with a licensed insurance professional to ensure you understand the fine print and have the right coverage tailored to your needs
At Begin Insurance, we’re dedicated to making insurance simple and accessible. If you’re looking for more information about car insurance coverage in Ontario, our expert team of brokers is here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect policy. Contact us today for personalized assistance, or click below to see how much you can save with a quick quote!
About the author Sean Graham:
Sean Graham has been an insurance broker in Ontario for over 20 years. He is considered a pioneer in the digital insurance space and has been featured on CTV’s Canada AM, CBC, City TV, AM 640, Newstalk 1010 and Toronto Star. In 2014 he was named one of Canada’s Top 10 brokers under 40. Sean believes strongly in putting the consumer at the center of everything the business does. He is also an advocate for fostering the next generation of insurance talent through education and mentorship.
Posted Apr 27, 2019