Non-Owner Car Insurance in Canada
I don’t own a car and have never been involved in any accidents, but I do frequently rent vehicles and buy insurance for each trip through the car-sharing services I use. Occasionally, I also borrow cars from friends and family.
Recently, several people have asked me about the implications of insurance coverage when I drive their cars. If I were to get into an accident and don’t have my own insurance, would this affect their premiums? Understandably, most people are hesitant to take on that risk, even if I only drive their vehicle a few times a year.
I’ve been researching non-owner car insurance but have found that in Nova Scotia and Ontario—two provinces where I spend a lot of time—it’s difficult to obtain a standalone policy. It appears that non-owner insurance must be added to an existing policy, but since I don’t live with anyone who has a car and don’t own one myself, I don’t have a policy to attach it to.
Can anyone guide me on how to secure non-owner insurance without an existing policy? I’m sure there are options for people like me who don’t own a vehicle. Is it possible to get a policy without owning a car?
I would like to ensure that if something were to happen, the liability and insurance premiums don’t fall on my friends and family. Thank you!
It sounds like you’re in a tricky situation, but you’re not alone—many people who don’t own cars still find themselves needing coverage for when they drive others’ vehicles. Here’s a breakdown of your options:
Consider an Insurance Broker: A broker can help you find the best options available in your province tailored to your specific needs. They may have insights into lesser-known policies that could work for you.
Rental Car Insurance: Since you already rent cars often, ensure you’re fully utilizing the insurance offered by the rental companies. This can provide liability coverage when driving a rented vehicle, although it may not cover accidents if you’re driving another person’s car.
Umbrella Policies: While these typically require you to have an existing auto insurance policy, some umbrella policies might be more flexible. They provide additional liability coverage over and above your base policy, which could alleviate concerns for your friends and family when you borrow their cars.
Talk to Friends and Family: Since you only borrow cars occasionally, consider discussing the situation with your friends and family. They might be willing to add you as a permitted driver under their existing policy. Most insurers allow for occasional drivers to be added to the policy without significantly affecting their premiums.
Understanding Liability: It’s essential for both you and the vehicle owner to understand that most insurance policies generally cover permissive users (those who drive with the owner’s permission). If you’re involved in an accident, the owner’s insurance will usually be the primary coverage, which means their premiums may be affected depending on the claim’s outcome. It’s a good idea to clarify this with their insurance provider.
In summary, while options may be limited, there are avenues to explore for non-owner car insurance, and communication with your friends and family about insurance options can also help address their concerns. Good luck, and drive safely!