In British Columbia, you purchase your required coverages through ICBC. However, you can shop around for your optional coverages if you choose through an insurance broker or directly with the insurer themselves (e.g. Canadian Direct Insurance). Make sure you are fully covered on both your basic insurance coverage and your optional auto insurance. For more information, consult a licensed, knowledgeable insurance professional through a direct insurer or a insurance broker. Compare apples to apples – coverage to coverage when checking prices.
Your rate with ICBC and private insurers depends on many factors. Any combination of the following can affect the rate you are offered and/or are eligible for:
Don’t be shy! If there’s something that doesn’t make sense to you, ask the question. Become an informed consumer – your broker or insurer is there to serve you.
What do you expect from your insurance company?
Have you had any changes that will affect the factors that your vehicle policy was based on initially? Review this list and keep these things in mind as triggers to review your vehicle policy.