Winter is approaching, and with it comes a whole slew of challenges for Ontarians. The sun starts setting shockingly early, the temperature plummets and our cars need a bit more TLC in the form of morning windshield scrapes before setting off for the day.
If you own a vehicle in an Ontarian winter, you know how driving changes when things get icy. This is why many Ontarians opt for winter tires for additional traction throughout these months.
If you are someone who swaps out your vehicle’s tires every winter season, did you know that Ontario offers Winter Tire Discount Insurance available to those who follow set guidelines?
If you are looking for a way to save some money on your auto insurance, read more:
Why Winter Tires
Although winter tires are only required in Quebec and British Columbia, they undoubtedly help keep you safe on the roads when they have become slick with ice, sleet, and snow. According to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada’s 2021 Canadian Consumer Winter Tire Study, it was found that 69 percent of Canadians outside of Quebec are using winter tires, a number that only increased from 2020.
It was also found that in 2011 when winter tires became mandatory in Quebec, there was a 5 percent reduction in the number of accidents. Although 5% may not seem like a lot, this can be the difference between having to make a claim and not having to make a claim.
Ontario takes second place in the entirety of Canada with 73 percent adoption of winter tires during the winter months, meaning that Ontarians already know the importance of winter tires. Winter tires provide better traction, helping you avoid accidents and fender-benders.
Winter Tire Discount Insurance in Ontario
Saving money in Ontario on your vehicle’s insurance is made possible through specific months if you swap your all-season or summer tires for winter tires.
They must be winter tires and NOT all-season tires. Installation of these tires must be between December and last through March.
If you’ve already done the above steps, all there is left to do is inform your insurance provider that you have them installed, where you can get a break of up to 5% off of your insurance premium which usually applies towards the entire time you are with that policy.
Don’t forget that there is a winter tire certificate that needs to be presented to your insurance provider so that they can verify that you have gone through each of the steps required to get the discount. Failure to do so might mean that you do not get the discount.
Get Winter Tires, Save Money
Winter tires are key for winters in Ontario and could not only help prevent collisions but also save you some money in the process. Having winter tires is something that all Canadians need to think about and many studies have shown that having winter tires can prevent collisions and the ensuing consequences. Finding the right winter tire is also important so be sure to get exactly what your car needs!
