First Snow Winter Readiness For Your Car

Snowfall warnings: Is Your Car (and Insurance) Winter-Ready?

Is your car ready for the first snow? Driving in winter weatherdemands more from both cars and drivers. Reduced reaction times, icy roads, and freezing temperatures can turn a simple drive into a dangerous journey, especially during extreme weather. This guide helps you with first snow winter readiness for your car. Learn how to check your tires, battery, and fluids, and prepare an emergency kit for safe winter driving.

Key Takeaways

  • Install winter tires to ensure better grip and handling on icy roads, significantly improving safety during winter driving.
  • Regularly check vehicle battery health and essential fluids like coolant and windshield washer fluid to prevent breakdowns and maintain visibility.
  • Prepare a winter car emergency kit with essentials such as a shovel, first aid supplies, and warm clothing to ensure safety during unexpected winter events.

Inspect and Change to Winter Tires

A close-up image of winter tires with snow in the background, highlighting their tread patterns for better grip during winter driving.

While Alberta law doesn’t mandate winter tires in cities, they can significantly reduce stopping distances by 25–60% on ice. Winter tires, with unique rubber compounds and tire’s tread patterns, offer better grip and handling on snowy and icy roads. Unlike all-season tires, snow tires, and studded tires, they stay flexible in colder temperatures, providing superior traction and control.

Regularly checking tire pressure is crucial since cold weather can cause it to drop, affecting your vehicle’s handling and stability. Make this a habit, particularly as temperatures decrease. Additionally, ensure that the tread depth on your winter tires is at least 4 mm to provide adequate traction on snow-covered roads. Check your tire pressure regularly for optimal performance.

Inspect your winter tires for visible damage and proper inflation before the first snowfall. This simple step can prevent accidents and keep your vehicle safe in wintry conditions. Remember, preparing your car with winter tires is not just about compliance; it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on the road.

Check Your Battery Health

Cold weather can significantly reduce your car battery’s power when temperatures drop, making it harder to start your vehicle. A typical car battery can lose around 20% of its capacity at 0°C and nearly 50% at -18°C. Therefore, checking your battery health before winter is crucial to avoid any unexpected breakdowns.

Signs of a weak battery include slow engine cranking, dim headlights at idle, and clicking sounds during startup. If your battery struggles to hold a charge, it might need to be replaced. Professional battery testing can assess cold cranking amps and overall battery health, preventing winter breakdowns.

Replacing a weak battery before winter can save you from costly emergency services in freezing temperatures. To prevent any starting issues, ensure the following:

  • Your battery is fully charged.
  • Your battery is in good health.
  • A fully charged battery should read at least 12.6 volts. Routine checks can prevent the inconvenience of being stranded in freezing temperatures.

Top Up Essential Fluids

In winter, topping up essential fluids is critical to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Using a winter-grade windshield washer fluid is essential to maintain visibility, as it helps prevent freezing and clears road salt from the windshield. This simple step can make a huge difference in your ability to see clearly during snowstorms.

An oil change before winter ensures your engine runs smoothly and prevents the oil from thickening due to low temperatures. Additionally, regularly checking brake fluid is crucial, as discoloured or low levels can indicate a need for a top-up or potential flush. Ensuring these fluid levels are adequate can prevent freezing and ensure your vehicle functions properly during winter.

Don’t forget to check your coolant levels to prevent your engine from freezing. Regularly topping up these essential fluids can save you from unexpected issues and keep your car in top shape throughout the winter months.

Examine Wiper Blades and Lights

Wiper blades are your best friends when it comes to maintaining visibility in rain or snow. Ensuring your windshield wipers are in good condition is crucial for safe winter driving. Key points to consider:

  • Worn wiper blades can significantly impair your ability to see clearly during adverse weather.
  • Check your wiper blades regularly.
  • Replace them if necessary.

Properly functioning vehicle lights are equally important for visibility and safety. Check that your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are all working correctly. Make sure your headlights are correctly aimed to maximize visibility and avoid blinding other vehicle drivers.

Good visibility is key to safe driving in winter conditions, so take the time to prepare your car in this regard.

Prepare a Winter Car Emergency Kit

An array of winter car emergency kit items laid out on a snowy surface, showcasing essential tools for safe winter driving.

Winter travel can be unpredictable, and having a well-stocked winter car emergency kit can be a lifesaver if you get stranded. Your kit should include:

  • A snow shovel
  • Snow brush
  • Ice scraper
  • Windshield wiper fluid to help you manage snow and ice buildup
  • Jumper cables
  • A tow rope
  • A spare set of wiper blades

These items are essential for ensuring your vehicle remains operational in emergencies.

Pack the following items to stay warm and prepared for your winter checklist:

  • A blanket
  • Winter gloves
  • A hat
  • Boots
  • Extra socks
  • Hand and foot warmers for immediate warmth if stuck in cold weather
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • Water bottles
  • A candle with matches
  • A whistle
  • A wind-up flashlight

These items are crucial for survival if you have to wait for help.

A small tool kit with screwdrivers and pliers can be useful for minor repairs, while traction aids like sand or kitty litter can help improve tire grip in slippery conditions. Don’t forget:

  • A first aid kit
  • A lock de-icer to ensure you can access your vehicle in freezing conditions
  • Having sufficient fuel in your tank prevents being stranded during emergencies and keeps your vehicle operational.

Ensure Heating and Cooling Systems are Functional

Your car’s heating and cooling system is crucial for comfort and safety during winter. Coolant must be checked for its proper concentration to avoid freezing and to ensure effective heating in cold weather. Having adequate antifreeze in the radiator prevents the engine from freezing and ensures proper heating performance.

Regular maintenance checks of hoses, connections, and power steering fluid levels can prevent leaks and ensure your heating system is working efficiently. Ensuring these systems are functional can prevent discomfort and dangerous situations during winter travel.

Keep Your Gas Tank Full

Keeping your gas tank at least half full is essential for preventing complications during winter weather. A full tank can prevent condensation and avoid freezing fuel lines, ensuring your car starts and runs smoothly. Always having fuel in your tank can help you be ready for unexpected delays caused by wintry weather.

Keeping your tank full or nearly full ensures your vehicle remains operational in harsh conditions. This simple step can prevent frustrating and potentially dangerous situations, making it a crucial part of your winter car preparation.

Plan Your Route and Drive Safely

A car driving cautiously on a snowy road, demonstrating safe winter driving practices and vehicle readiness for icy conditions.

Planning your route and driving safely are paramount during winter. Here are some important tips:

  • Check weather and traffic reports before heading out to ensure a smooth journey.
  • On long trips, plan enough time to stop and rest.
  • Especially stop and rest if you encounter poor visibility or slippery roads.

To drive safely in winter conditions:

  • Inform others of your travel plans.
  • Adjust your speed based on road and weather conditions.
  • Avoid using cruise control during extreme winter weather to maintain better control of the vehicle.
  • Understand the challenges of driving in winter weather, such as reduced visibility and black ice, to help you drive more safely.

Keep your mobile phone charged and have a charging cable handy in case of emergencies. By planning your route and driving cautiously, you can minimize risks and ensure a safer journey for yourself and other drivers on the road.

Clean and Protect Your Car

A car being cleaned and protected from winter elements, showcasing tools and products for maintenance in winter weather.

Cleaning and protecting your car during winter is essential to prevent rust and corrosion. Focus on the undercarriage and wheel wells when washing your car to remove harmful road salt. Using anti-corrosion soap additives can enhance protection against rust.

Waxing your car after cleaning provides a protective layer that repels winter elements. Avoid using hot water when washing your car to prevent glass damage and wax melting. Using compressed air can help dry your vehicle post-wash, ensuring no water remains in seals.

Regular maintenance and cleaning can keep your car in good shape throughout the winter, ensuring it remains safe and reliable. Protecting your car from winter elements can prevent long-term damage and maintain its value.

Review Your Insurance Coverage

As winter approaches, it’s a good time to review your insurance coverage. Consider the following:

  • Some insurers offer discounts for winter tires.
  • Telematics programs may reward safe winter driving.
  • Review roadside assistance coverage.

Bundling your home and auto insurance can result in significant savings and ensure you have comprehensive coverage for all your needs. Take advantage of these options to protect yourself and your vehicle this winter.

Summary

Preparing your car for winter involves several important steps, from changing to winter tires and checking your battery health to topping up essential fluids and assembling a winter emergency kit. Each of these measures can significantly enhance your safety and peace of mind during winter driving.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your vehicle is ready to face the challenges of winter. Stay safe, drive carefully, and enjoy the beauty of the winter season with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are winter tires better than all-season tires for winter driving?

Winter tires are superior to all-season tires for driving in cold weather, because they are specifically engineered with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns that enhance grip on snowy and icy surfaces, ensuring greater safety.

How often should I check my car battery during winter?

You should check your car battery before winter and then regularly during the season, particularly if you observe any signs of weakness like slow engine cranking or dim headlights. Regular checks can help prevent unexpected failures.

What should I include in a winter car emergency kit?

For a comprehensive winter survival kit, include a compact shovel, snow brush, ice scraper, windshield wiper fluid, jumper cables, tow rope, a warm blanket, winter clothing accessories, non-perishable snacks, and a wind-up flashlight. These essentials will help ensure your safety and comfort during winter emergencies.

Why is it important to keep my gas tank at least half full in winter?

It’s crucial to keep your gas tank at least half full in winter to prevent condensation and freezing fuel lines, ensuring reliable vehicle performance in cold weather. This simple step can save you from potential starting issues during harsh conditions.

How can I protect my car from rust and corrosion during winter?

To protect your car from rust and corrosion during winter, regularly clean it, particularly the undercarriage and wheel wells, and use anti-corrosion soap additives. Additionally, applying wax can provide an extra layer of protection against harsh elements.

Navigating Missed Car Payments: Insurers Report Increase in Canadians Failing to Make Car Payments

Insurance providers are indicating a growing trend of Canadians failing to meet their car insurance payment obligations, which could potentially result in significantly higher premiums or challenges in obtaining insurance in the future because of missed car payments, according to Surex.

The prominent digital insurance brokerage, Surex, is raising awareness to inform drivers about the consequences of having a missed payment on their record, as stated in a recent press release.

Matt Dillon, the executive vice president of national operations at Surex, mentions that recent discussions with the brokerage’s insurance partners—some of the largest insurers in Canada—reveal an uptick in the number of customers who have missed car payments. While the brokerage does not have precise figures on this increase, it appears to correlate with a rise in the unemployment rate as the economy shows signs of weakening.

When a driver fails to make a payment, insurance companies will reach out to inform them that a payment must be made by a specific deadline, according to Surex. If the driver does not respond, the policy will be terminated.

“As a driver, having your policy canceled due to non-payment is something you definitely want to avoid,” Dillon emphasizes. “If this appears on your record, obtaining insurance will become significantly more costly, as you will be categorized as a risk by insurers.”

How much could a missed payment on your record increase your premiums? Surex has provided several examples based on test quotes for drivers in Ontario:

  • A 42-year-old male driver with a 2005 Honda Accord currently pays $3,399 annually for insurance. If a non-payment is recorded, that amount jumps to $3,780, reflecting an 11.21% increase.
  • A 39-year-old male driver with a 2017 Honda CRV pays $4,011 each year for insurance. With a non-payment on their record, their premium escalates to $4,708, marking a 17.3% rise.
  • A 49-year-old female driver with a 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander pays $2,132 per year for insurance. If a non-payment is noted, that figure increases by 10.3% to $2,351.

According to Surex, most drivers with a non-payment on their record can expect to see double-digit increases in their insurance costs. The brokerage also informs Canadian Underwriter that a missed payment can influence payment options and pricing for as long as three years.

Dillon stresses the importance of contacting your insurer if you anticipate difficulties in making a payment, and advises working out a solution with them as soon as possible.

“The consequences of missing a payment can be immediate,” Dillon warns. “This indicates to insurance companies that you may struggle with payments in the future, and insurance pricing is fundamentally based on risk assessment.”

Overland Flood Insurance: Protect Your Home from Spring Flooding

Need to protect your home from flood damage due to heavy rain or snowmelt? Overland flood insurance can help. Learn why it’s important, what it covers and how to get it.

Key Points

  • Overland flood insurance covers damage from external flooding events, not internal water damage like standard home insurance.
  • Homeowners in flood prone areas, especially those with no drainage, should get overland flood insurance to avoid huge repair costs from flooding.
  • Homeowners need to understand the exclusions in overland flood insurance and need to combine it with sewer backup coverage for full water damage protection.

What is Overland Flood Insurance?

Overland flood insurance is a type of coverage that protects homeowners from the damage caused by water that floods a property from above ground. This can happen from heavy rain, excess snowmelt or poor drainage systems. Unlike standard home insurance that covers water damage from internal sources like burst pipes, overland flood insurance covers external flooding events that can cause severe property loss.

Many insurers now offer overland flood endorsements so homeowners can add this coverage to their existing policies. With the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters like flooding, this extra layer of protection is more important than ever.

Coverage

Overland flood insurance primarily covers damage from freshwater sources that overflow due to heavy rain or rapid snowmelt. This type of coverage is crucial for homeowners in flood prone areas like Alberta where spring floods can be a big problem. Without this coverage, homeowners could face huge repair costs and potential loss of their home.

Overland flood insurance protects your property from damage caused by natural flooding events. This includes water entering through doors, windows or cracks in the foundation causing extensive damage to your home’s structure and contents.

Many insurers offer this coverage and you should contact your insurance company to see if your area is covered and what’s included in your policy.

Exclusions

While overland flood insurance is important, you need to understand its exclusions. One major exclusion is coverage for flooding caused by saltwater or coastal events. This means if you live near an ocean or sea, overland flood insurance will not cover damage from storm surges or tsunamis.Understanding these exclusions is key for homeowners to be fully protected against all types of flooding risks. For example, overland flood insurance covers damage from heavy rain and snowmelt but not from a toilet overflow or other internal sources.

Knowing what’s covered and what’s not will help you prepare for emergencies and avoid surprises when you need to make a claim.

Why You Need Overland Flood Insurance

Not having overland flood insurance can cost you big time. Water damage accounts for 50% of all home insurance claims in Canada. When homes are flooded, they can become uninhabitable leaving homeowners with huge repair bills and the task of rebuilding their lives.

With the increasing number of extreme weather events, overland flood insurance is no longer an option but a necessity. It gives you peace of mind knowing your home and family are protected from the devastating effects of flooding. The financial security it provides can make a world of difference in the aftermath of a flood so you can recover and rebuild with minimal disruption.

High-Risk Areas

Areas with poor drainage systems are more prone to overland flooding. These high-risk areas get heavy rainfall and poor drainage so it’s more likely to flood. For homeowners in these areas, overland flood insurance is a must to protect their property from water damage.

Emergency preparedness is key in these high-risk areas. Homeowners should work with emergency personnel and follow Public Safety Canada’s guidelines to ensure they have the necessary personal protective equipment and measures in place to mitigate flood risks. Knowing the hazards in your area and taking proactive steps can reduce the impact of flooding on your home and family.

Case Study: Alberta Spring Flooding

The spring flooding in Alberta is a reminder of the importance of overland flood insurance. Heavy rain and rapid snowmelt causes problems for residents with water entering homes and causing extensive damage. Protecting homes in Alberta from spring flooding is crucial to mitigate these impacts.

Having overland flood insurance can help mitigate the financial impact of flooding events. Homeowners should review their insurance policies to make sure they are covered for overland flooding. This proactive approach will give you the financial and emotional relief you need during and after a flood.

How to Get Overland Flood Insurance

Getting overland flood insurance involves a few steps:

  1. Talk to an insurance broker who can guide you on how to purchase overland water coverage.2. Overland flood insurance is usually offered as an endorsement and not included in standard home insurance policies.
  2. Check if your insurer offers this coverage in flood zones.
  3. Even if you’re not near lakes or rivers, overland water damage can occur in many places. When adding overland flood coverage, make sure you already have sewer backup coverage as this is often a requirement. The guide from the source can help you ensure you have coverage for all types of water damage so you can have peace of mind and financial protection.

Policy Review

Reviewing your home insurance policy is key when considering overland flood coverage. Comprehensive or all-risk policies may cover water damage but read your policy carefully and consult with an insurance broker to confirm. Understanding the definitions and terms used in your policy such as ‘flood’ will help avoid confusion and ensure you have the coverage you need.

When comparing policies focus on the specifics of the coverage including what’s covered and what’s not. This will help you make an informed decision and provide the needed protection for your property against overland flooding and other water-related risks.

Cost

The cost of overland water coverage varies depending on the risk of flooding in your area and existing basement waterproofing. Homeowners can expect to pay between $10-$30 per month for this coverage. If your home is in an area deemed too high risk for flooding, you may not be eligible for overland water coverage.

To add overland water coverage, you must already have sewer backup coverage. This combination provides comprehensive protection against various types of water damage so you’re financially protected in case of a flood.

Preventive Measures to Reduce Overland Flood Risk

Taking preventive measures can reduce overland flood risk. Slope the ground away from your home’s foundation to minimize basement flooding and install a sump pump connected to the storm sewer to manage water around your foundation.

These steps and other home modifications and landscaping tips can help protect your property from water damage and potentially lower your insurance premiums.

Home Modifications

Installing backwater valves can protect your basement from sewage backup during surcharges. These valves prevent sewage from flowing back into your home reducing the risk of water damage. Making these home improvements may also lower your insurance premiums as insurers often give discounts for measures that reduce flood risk.Comprehensive home insurance policies that includes flood coverage can provide extra protection so your home and family are protected from various water related damages. Investing in these modifications not only protects your property but also gives financial benefits in the form of lower insurance costs.

Yard and Landscaping Tips

Proper yard and landscaping is essential to prevent water accumulation around your home’s foundation. Make sure the ground is sloped away from the house to prevent water from pooling near the foundation. Maintaining weeping tiles is also important as they help manage water flow and prevent buildup around the foundation.

These simple yet effective tips can reduce overland flooding risk, protect your home from water damage and make it safer and more stable.

Overland Water vs Sewer Backup Coverage

Understanding the difference between overland water and sewer backup coverage is key to full protection. Overland water coverage protects properties from external sources of water damage such as rainfall or river overflow while sewer backup coverage addresses incidents caused by clogged sewer lines or heavy rainfall overwhelming the service line.

Sewer Backup Causes

Sewer backups can occur due to various reasons such as tree roots growing into sewer lines causing significant blockages. Fats, oils and greases can solidify and accumulate contributing to clogs that cause sewer backups to happen. When sewer lines sag, water becomes trapped and solids settle, causing blockages.

Preventive measures like installing backwater valves and sump pumps can reduce the risk of both overland flooding and sewer backups so your home is protected from various water related damages.

Combining Coverages

Combining overland water and sewer backup coverage provides extra protection against various types of water related damage. Make sure your policy covers both risks as this comprehensive coverage protects homeowners from flooding and sewer backup incidents.

Many insurers offer combined coverage options and it’s important to review your home insurance policy to ensure you’re covered. This gives you peace of mind knowing you’re protected against multiple water damage risks.

Conclusion

Flood insurance is an essential part of home protection especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall and poor drainage. Knowing what it covers and its exclusions means homeowners are prepared for flooding events. The financial and emotional relief provided by this insurance cannot be overstated, it’s a safety net in the face of natural disasters.By reviewing policies, considering costs and taking preventive measures, homeowners can increase their protection against overland flooding and water related damages. Combining overland water and sewer backup coverage gives you full protection so your home and family is protected from unexpected water damage. Contact us to discuss your overland flood insurance options.

FAQs

What does overland flood insurance cover?

Overland flood insurance covers damage from freshwater overflow, including heavy rainfall or melting snow. It covers external flooding events that can impact your property.

What are the exclusions in overland flood insurance?

Overland flood insurance excludes damage from saltwater or coastal events such as storm surges and tsunamis. So make sure you understand these limitations when considering flood coverage.

Why do I need overland flood insurance in high risk areas?

Overland flood insurance is necessary in high risk areas because it protects homeowners from major water damage from flooding which is common in areas with poor drainage and heavy rainfall. This coverage gives you financial security against the devastating effects of overland floods.

How much does overland flood insurance cost?

Overland flood insurance costs between $10 to $30 per month depending on the flood risk of your area and any waterproofing measures in place. Make sure to factor these in when budgeting for your insurance needs.

Can I combine overland water and sewer backup coverage?

Yes, combining overland water and sewer backup coverage gives you full protection against different types of water damage so you’re protected from flooding and sewer backup incidents.

Ghost Brokers in Alberta

ghost broker alberta

Ghost Brokers Alberta

Consumers in Alberta are being cautioned about unlicensed insurance agents, also known as “ghost brokers,” while purchasing car insurance. 

According to Chris Merriman, Alberta’s superintendent of insurance, there has been a rise in reports of ghost brokers falsely claiming to offer car insurance.

Two types of schemes

The notice warned about “ghost brokers,” who are unlicensed agents that fraudulently claim to assist car owners in finding cheaper auto insurance, often through social media or phone calls.

The ghost broker agents engage in deception by either posing as customers and providing false information to insurance companies or by distributing counterfeit policies and pink cards. 

Ghost brokers often prey on newcomers to Canada and individuals unfamiliar with the province’s car insurance system, as stated in the notice.

According to Merriman, victims often discover their lack of legitimate insurance only after experiencing a loss, which can leave them without coverage and in a vulnerable position.

Ghost Broker Investigations

They owned their cars for years. Police are now indicating the vehicles are stolen property.

In Alberta, the superintendent regulates the insurance business industry and isn’t the only individual sounding the fraudulent agents bells.

Aviva Canada issued a news release on Sept. 11, warning Canadians about a ghost broker called AllcoveredbyAviva or Allcoveredbrokers in Alberta.

In the release, Jamie Lee, the company’s head of financial crime and fraud, stated that Canadians were deceived into transferring money for insurance premiums and were falsely led to believe they had purchased auto insurance coverage with Aviva. She stated, “Individuals have been given fake pink slips.”

According to the news release, the ghost broker promoted themselves on social media platforms and falsely claimed to be associated with Aviva. 

Alberta Insurance Council

Karim Mouait, president of Cornerstone Insurance Brokers and president-elect of the Alberta insurance brokers association, felt a chill creep up his spine as he listened to the whispered accounts of people falling victim to auto insurance counterfeit pink cards.

According to him, inflation has placed significant financial strain on households, prompting people to seek ways to save money on car insurance.

He stated, “This is an ideal excuse for fraudsters to exploit individuals in the auto insurance industry”

Andy Dykstra, associate VP of enterprise fraud at Co-operators, emphasized the recent rise of the auto insurance problem, which is not exclusive to Alberta. 

“Keeping track of their actions is challenging, as a ghost broker excels in innovation and constantly seeks vulnerabilities,” he stated. 

According to him, insurance companies can detect and prevent it, but they are not foolproof.

Consumers should be aware of these ghost broker red flags.

Superintendent of Insurance

According to the superintendent of insurance notice, consumers can safeguard themselves against a ghost broker by researching licensed agents and insurance companies next time they seek automobile insurance.

According to Mouait and Dykstra, consumers should be wary of upfront fees, cash payment requests, extremely low rates, and cheaper insurance incentives. 

According to Dykstra, if the automobile insurance deal appears too good to be true, it’s a cause for concern.

Collision Reporting in Alberta

Collision reporting in Alberta: We take many safety precautions in our daily commutes, from using seatbelts to ensuring a safe distance between vehicles. We also maintain our vehicles to prevent breakdowns, but never the less, the unexpected can always happen.

If you find yourself involved in a collision, then follow these steps to reporting the collision in Alberta:

  • If there is a fatality or serious injury, immediately call 911 for medical attention. Keep those injured warm and do not move them unless they are in the way of danger. 
  • If there is suspected criminal activity such as drunk driving do not leave the scene and call 911

Exchange information with other drivers:

  • Make note of the streets or locations where the collision occurred
  • Document the license plate number of the other vehicle along with the make and model of the car
  • Document the other driver’s personal information, such as name, address and driver’s license number
  • It’s also a good idea to sketch a map of where the scene occurred

It’s recommended to minimize conversations with other drivers and instead discuss the accident details with the insurance company and police. 

Take pictures that include the vehicle damage, the surrounding areas and photos of the total accident scene, including driver’s licenses, insurance documents and license plate numbers.

Report the accident (even minor ones) to the police even if they aren’t on the scene.

Depending on the damage to your vehicle, you may require a tow to the nearest Collision Reporting Centre. If your vehicle isn’t operational or you are unsure of the total cost of the damage, have your vehicle towed by a towing company of your choice. Find one of the reporting centres phone numbers listed below.

Collision Reporting Centre Locations in Edmonton

Edmonton NorthEdmonton South
1570 116 Ave NWEdmonton, AB T5M 3S5780-452-1531
Monday to Saturday: 8:00am – 8:00pmSunday: 10:00am – 6:00pmClosed Statutory Holidays		5805 87A St NWEdmonton, AB T6E 5Z1587-758-9427
Monday to Saturday: 8:00am – 8:00pmSunday: 10:00am – 6:00pmClosed Statutory Holidays

It is important to note that they have adjusted the threshold for the requirement to report from $2000 to $5000.

Should the damage exceed $5000 or more, you are required to report it.

Once you report the information, your insurance company will receive the forwarded information. 

Aviva Claims: 1-866-692-8482

Intact Claims: 1-866-464-2424

Pembridge Claims: 1-800-661-1577

You will need to contact your insurer and they will advise you on the important next steps you will need to take. You may be able to upload photos and submit your claim online.

Never leave the scene of the accident. If the other driver leaves, attempt to record their license plate number so the police can locate them by taking a photo or video. 

Please note, you MUST report the incident in the jurisdiction where the collision took place. 

If the road conditions or weather conditions aren’t favourable, and your vehicle doesn’t require a tow, you can report the collision as soon as possible. 

If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us for further information!

Phone: (587) 520-7080

The Good & The Bad of Summer Weather in Alberta

Summer in Alberta is nothing short of amazing. We get to reconnect with the great outdoors, enjoy BBQ’s, festivities and each other. Summer can also bring amazing weather in the form of heat waves, hail storms, floods, forest fires and tornado’s.

Weather has changed dramatically through the years and it’s severity has increased due to climate change. Here are some great ideas to protect yourself and your property from the negative effects of Severe Weather.

Prepare:

  1. Create an emergency preparedness plan for your household and ensure you have an
    emergency kit. Items to include in the kit include water, canned food, flashlight and
    batteries, first aid, and cash. For more details, visit the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
    Ensure the items in your kit are not expired and in working order yearly.
  2. Make sure that barbecues and other outdoor furniture and appliances are either secure
    and covered or stored indoors.
  3. If possible, park your vehicle in a covered area such as a garage or a carport.
  4. Stay away from all windows, doors, and skylights during a storm.
  5. If you’re out during a storm, keep an eye out for flooded areas and don’t drive through
    them – find a safe place to pull over off to the side of the road.

Prevention:

  1. Investing in hail-resistant materials to replace their roof or siding. These materials, such as Class 4 Rated Hail Resistant Asphalt Shingles for their roof or Cement Fiber Board for their siding perform better in a storm.
  2. Check you sump pump regularly to make sure that it is working.
  3. Make sure all downspouts are clear of debris and pointed away from your home.
  4. Unless ordered to evacuate. Stay Home and find safe areas in your home, when local emergency alerts have been activated for extreme weather.
  5. Follow all fire safety bans in your area.

Alberta’s New Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD)

Why is Alberta moving to DCPD?

DCPD is a fairer and more efficient approach to insurance claims and vehicle repairs, and is already used in most provinces in Canada. Under DCPD, damages to your vehicle will be repaired faster and without the delays and complications that can arise when dealing with another driver’s insurer.

DCPD reduces costs associated with subrogation – the process insurers use to determine who pays for a claim following a collision. Along with other reforms, it will help stabilize premiums for the long term.

Consumers who have questions about DCPD and what it means for them should contact their insurance representative or IBC’s Consumer Information Line at 1-844-2ask-IBC or email AskIBCWest@ibc.ca. 

Direct Compensation For Property Damage (DCPD) Insurance (ibc.ca)

Distracted Driving Hurts your Insurance

Distracted driving can attribute to up to a 25% or more increase in your insurance.

  • Distracted driving convictions are considered by majority of Insurance Companies as a Major Violation.
  • Insurance companies may NOT offer you Physical Damage coverage if you have a distracted driving Conviction.
  • Average cost for distracted driving tickets in Alberta is approximately $300.00 and 3 demerit points.
  • As per the City of Edmonton Police site.  While driving (including drive thru’s) It is illegal to: use a hand-held phone while talking, texting or emailing.  Operate electronic devices like video players or laptops.  Manually program GPS units or portable audio players.

For more information on what is considered Distracted driving offences visit: https://www.edmontonpolice.ca/TrafficVehicles/TrafficSafety/DistractedDriving

Insurance 2021 News

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How Insuramix is dealing with Covid 19:

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The WHO (World Health Organization) has assessed COVID-19 as a Pandemic.  We are committed to providing Insurance services during our regular business hours by Phone or Email.

Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

We are currently seeing clients in person by appointment only.

Masking is required.  If you cannot adhere to our masking policy, we would be happy to assist you by phone or email.

PHONE: 587-520-7080 or EMAIL: info@insuramix.ca

Prevention of this pandemic is best managed if we limit the in person contact with social distancing. Your business is very important to us, so please do call us or email us with any of your Insurance needs or inquiries.

Changes to Alberta Disaster Recovery Program 2021

Albertans living in high-risk areas may experience a natural disaster of one kind or another. The Government of Alberta continues to provide DRP assistance to all qualifying applicants; however, homeowners living in high-risk areas are encouraged to consider relocating or mitigating risks to their properties. Flood maps are available at https://floods.alberta.ca/.

Purchasing insurance It is important for Albertans to become educated about their disaster risks and ensure they are adequately insured. There are more insurance options on the market now than ever before.

  For more information Online: http://alberta.ca/drp

Overland Water Coverage

Overland Water Protection is designed to protect against damage caused when ground water enters a property from the sudden accumulation of water such as damage caused by fresh water flood such as the overflow of a rivers or lakes, and the sudden accumulation of water due to heavy rainfall or spring run off.

Calgary Floods in 2013 have changed how Insurance Carriers respond to Sewer Back up losses.  The introduction of Overland Water Coverage bridges the gaps of Water related losses when purchased with Sewer Back up Coverage.

Overland Water Protection is NEW SINCE 2017 coverage.   Unfortunately not all properties are eligible.  Mobile Homes and select Seasonal Properties unfortunately do not qualify at this time.  Certain locations in Alberta do not qualify if they are;

1.  Considered extremely high risk for flood

2.  Have reverse driveways

3.  Dwellings within 100 meters of a river or other flowing body of water do not qualify.

Cost of Coverage determines on the limits, deductibles and locations of the property.  Overland Water Coverage can be tailored to fit your budget by selecting higher deductibles or limiting amount of coverage payable.

Legislation Changes to Condo Corporations – Jan 2020

Regulations came into effect on January 1, 2020.  https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/d1cfec95-c9ec-4b0f-bba9-8be0a513931b/resource/4dd63982-4d5a-4c58-a7f5-7330a5db9c0e/download/sa-recovery-insurance-deductible-2020-03.pdf

Additional coverage is now available to you to protect you against the Condo Corporations “Charge Back”!

Most Condo policies cover you under their Policy wordings for $25,000 worth of coverage.  However, with the new legislation this may not be sufficient. 

Photo by Jess Loiterton on Pexels.com

Should you wish to increase your limits most Insurance Providers are offering higher limits at additional annual premiums and coverage available can vary with each insurance provider.

Most Condo Corporations have amended their wordings; therefore, we recommend that you review your Condo Corporations wordings.  Below is an example of the wordings that some Condo Corporations have used to advise their Condo Unit Owners.

Example: Effective January 1, 2020, Corporations will be able to “charge back” the deductible portion of a loss if the loss originates from a Unit. There is no requirement to prove negligence on behalf of the Unit Owner/Occupant to do so. The maximum amount of the charge back is the limit of the Corporation’s deductible or $50,000 – whichever is the least.