Calgary Car Insurance

The cost of car insurance in Calgary

At Acera Insurance, we want to help make insurance both easy to understand and easy to buy. Below, we outline the key factors which determine how auto premiums in Calgary are calculated. We also share how you can get free quotes, save on your premiums, and find the best auto insurance coverage for your needs.

What is the average cost of car insurance in Calgary?

Car insurance in Calgary costs each driver differently depending on the factors that are listed above. You may expect to pay a certain amount based on your personal risk factor. Acera Insurance has gathered the data and supplied you the following figures to base an estimated average cost of car insurance in Calgary.

• Monthly – car insurance in Calgary may cost an average of $125.
  The monthly range for car insurance in Calgary is between $82 and $265, so you may expect to pay within this amount.

• Yearly – car insurance in Calgary may cost around $1,495.
  The yearly range for car insurance in Calgary is between $980 and $3,183, so you may expect to pay within this amount.

To get an exact quote, connect with one of our brokers or complete a quote request online. If you are worried that your car insurance in Calgary may be a little too hard on your budget, we are happy to discuss your options.

What factors influence auto insurance premiums in Calgary?

The answer depends on a number of factors, such as your insurance and claims history, your driving record, the value, age, make, and model of your vehicle, the area in which you live, and how you use and how much you drive your car. Each of these elements can influence how much you pay for auto insurance in Calgary, with aspects like past claims, traffic violations, or the likelihood of theft in your neighbourhood all contributing to the final premium you are quoted. Learn more about each factor below.

• Your insurance and claims history. Insurance providers assess how many claims you’ve made in the past and your history of maintaining continuous coverage, which can impact your premium rates either positively or negatively depending on your record.
• Your driving record. A clean driving record with few or no traffic violations or accidents can lead to lower premiums, while tickets or at-fault accidents typically result in higher rates.
• Your vehicle’s value, age, make, and model. More expensive or newer vehicles often cost more to insure. Certain models may have higher repair costs or be statistically more likely to be stolen, both of which can increase your insurance premium.
• Where you live. Living in areas with higher rates of accidents, theft, or vandalism, such as denser urban centres, can raise your insurance costs compared to more rural or suburban areas.
• How you use and how much you drive your vehicle. Vehicles driven daily or for long commutes generally have higher premiums due to increased exposure to risk. Cars used occasionally or for short distances may be less expensive to insure.
• Who drives your vehicle (and their driving record). If other drivers are listed on your policy, their age, driving history, and claims record will also affect your premiums. Young or inexperienced drivers usually raise rates.
• Your demographics. Factors such as your age, gender, and even marital status can be considered by insurers, as statistical data shows these can influence the likelihood of filing a claim.
• Your coverage options. Choosing higher coverage limits or additional features like comprehensive or collision coverage will increase your premiums. Opting for minimum coverage or higher deductibles can reduce costs.

Unfortunately, rates for Calgary car insurance have been on the rise in Alberta thanks to rising accident expenses, insurance fraud, and increasing frequency of natural disasters. There are many uncontrollable influences on your Calgary car insurance rates. However, there are some simple practices and choices you can make to save on your auto insurance.

10 tips for reducing your Calgary car insurance premiums

Here are some of our recommendations on how you can help decrease your auto insurance coverage costs:

• Practice safe driving.
  Maintaining a clean driving record by obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions, and following all traffic rules can significantly reduce your risk of accidents and traffic violations. Insurance companies often reward safe drivers with lower premiums, so consistently practising safe driving habits can lead to long-term savings.
• Install security devices.
  Adding anti-theft devices such as car alarms, steering wheel locks, or GPS tracking systems can deter theft and vandalism. Many insurers in Calgary provide discounts for vehicles equipped with enhanced security features, as these lower the risk of loss or damage.
• Try usage-based insurance.
  Usage-based insurance (UBI), or telematics, tailors your premium based on your actual driving habits such as speed, distance, and braking patterns. If you’re a safe, low-mileage driver, switching to UBI may result in substantial savings on your Calgary car insurance.
• Opt for public transit, walking, or biking for your commute, if that’s possible.
  Reducing your reliance on your car for daily commuting can decrease your annual mileage, a key factor in insurance pricing. Lower mileage means less exposure to risk, which can translate into lower premiums. Calgary’s public transit and extensive bike paths make alternative commuting options practical for many residents.
• Stay insured as gaps can raise your rates.
  Maintaining continuous insurance coverage is crucial. Lapses or gaps in your policy history may cause insurers to view you as a higher risk, leading to increased premiums when you reinstate or seek new coverage. Always renew on time and avoid interruptions.
• Consider bundling your Calgary auto insurance with your home and other insurance products.
  Bundling multiple insurance policies, such as auto, home, and life, with the same provider can unlock multi-policy discounts. Many Calgary insurers offer incentives for customers who consolidate their insurance needs, simplifying your accounts and saving you money.
• Invest in winter tires.
  Equipping your vehicle with winter tires is not only essential for safe driving in Calgary’s icy winters but can also qualify you for insurance discounts. Insurers recognize the reduced risk of accidents when winter tires are used, especially during the colder months.
• Take a driver’s training course.
  Completing an accredited driver’s training or defensive driving course can improve your driving skills and may lead to lower insurance premiums, especially for younger or inexperienced drivers. Calgary insurers often reward those who invest in further education with reduced rates.
• Be aware of insurance fraud and scams.
  Stay informed about common fraud schemes, such as staged accidents or false claims. Reporting suspicious activity and protecting yourself from scams not only safeguards your finances but also helps keep overall insurance costs down for all policyholders in your community.
• Don’t submit a claim if you can afford to fix the damage yourself.
  Making frequent claims, especially for minor damages, can lead to higher premiums over time. If the cost of repairs is lower than your deductible or you can pay out-of-pocket, it may be wiser to avoid filing a claim and keep your insurance record clean.

Bonus tip: Review your insurance at least once per year with a good Calgary car insurance broker.
Annual policy reviews with a knowledgeable local broker ensure that your coverage matches your current needs and that you’re taking advantage of all available discounts. Brokers can help you compare options, find savings, and adjust your policy as your life changes.

For more great advice, connect with one of our friendly, local insurance brokers to learn more.