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What’s Covered? A Straightforward Guide to Auto Insurance in Ontario

Whether you’re driving through downtown Toronto or cruising a rural road in northern Ontario, one thing is certain—you need the right car insurance. But understanding what’s actually covered can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with insurance language.

At Tribal Custom Insurance (TCI), we believe in making things simple, transparent, and accessible. Here’s a plain-language guide to what’s included in a standard Ontario auto insurance policy—and how you can make sure you’re fully protected.

The Basics: Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage in Ontario

In Ontario, there are four types of auto insurance coverage required by law:

  1. Third-Party Liability This covers damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle or property, and if someone is injured or killed in an accident where you’re at fault. It helps cover legal costs and compensation. The minimum coverage is $200,000—but many people choose higher limits for better protection.
  2. Statutory Accident Benefits
    This pays for medical care, income replacement, rehabilitation, and other expenses if you’re injured in a collision—regardless of who was at fault.
  3. Uninsured Automobile CoverageThis protects you and your family if you’re injured or killed in a crash involving an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.

Optional Add-Ons: Extra Protection for Peace of Mind

While the basic policy keeps you legal, it may not be enough depending on your needs. That’s why many drivers choose optional coverage such as:

  • Collision Coverage – Helps repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, even if you’re at fault.
  • Comprehensive Coverage – Covers damage from things like theft, vandalism, falling trees, hail, or hitting a deer.
  • All Perils – A bundled option that includes both collision and comprehensive protection.
  • Loss of Use / Rental Coverage – Pays for a rental while your vehicle is being repaired.
  • Accident Forgiveness – Prevents your first at-fault accident from increasing your premium.
  • Direct Compensation – Property Damage (DCPD) If someone hits your vehicle and they’re at fault, this coverage lets you deal with your own insurance company (instead of theirs) to repair or replace your car.
  • At TCI, we walk you through these choices so you can build a policy that reflects how you drive, where you live, and what you value.

    What Vehicles Can You Insure?

    We offer auto insurance for more than just passenger vehicles. Coverage is available for:

    • Private passenger cars
    • Motorcycles
    • Recreational vehicles such as ATVs, snowmobiles, and side-by-sides

    Whether you use your vehicle to commute or to explore the back roads, we’ll help you find the right fit.

    What About Discounts?

    There are several ways you might save on your premium, including:

    • Multi-vehicle or multi-policy discounts
    • Winter tire discount
    • Claims-free or safe driver discounts
    • Student away from home
    • Anti-theft device discounts
    • Short commute or low-mileage use

    We’ll check every available option to help you get the best rate possible—without cutting corners on coverage.

    Let’s Make Insurance Simple

    Auto insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. At TCI, we make it easy to understand your coverage and feel confident that you’re protected—on the road, in the community, and beyond. Need a quote or want to review your current policy? We’re here to help.