In Montreal, drivers have to deal with bridge and tunnel congestion, roadwork, lots of cyclists and parking bans in winter. Plus, potholes and car theft matter; your specific car and area affect your insurance rates.
On this page we compare Montreal car insurance rates with the Quebec average and explain how rates in Montreal differ from rates in the rest of the province. We will also describe how Quebec’s public/private insurance system works, the factors that influence your Montreal car insurance quote and what you can do to get lower car insurance rates in Montreal.
How Much Is Car Insurance in Montreal?
In Montreal, the median cost of car insurance is $1,636 a year, or $136 a month. That is $584, or 55.5%, more than Quebec’s provincial median of $1,052.
How much you’ll pay as a Montreal driver depends on your vehicle, your address for parking, your driving record and insurance history, how much you drive per year, and the coverage options you choose. Be sure to compare similar insurance quotes. The cheapest may come with high deductibles and less coverage for your car.
How Car Insurance Works in Montreal
The SAAQ, Quebec’s public insurance plan, covers bodily injury claims arising out of a road accident for Montreal drivers, whether they’re at fault or not. It doesn’t cover damage to your car.
The car owner must also have a separate insurance policy with a minimum of $50,000 in civil-liability insurance. People typically purchase higher coverage limits since the minimum amount might not cover you adequately in the event of a major accident or if you’re driving outside of Quebec.
The part of your policy that provides coverage for your own vehicle is called Section B, and you can choose to add this coverage. Collision covers eligible collision damage, like damage resulting from a crash or rollover. Comprehensive covers eligible non-collision losses like theft, vandalism, fire and falling objects. If you’re financing or leasing a vehicle, you may need to have this type of coverage based on your contract terms.
In Montreal, the exact car model and address where you park your car may matter a lot. Previous theft, repair prices and neighbourhood claim statistics can affect your private rate. Look at both the deductible and the premium, especially if you often park your car on the street.
How to Get Cheap Car Insurance in Montreal
It could make all the difference in Montreal. Get an insurance quote before you buy any car, especially for models with a history of theft or high repair costs. If your car has an approved tracking or anti-theft device, it might even get you a discount from some insurers.
There are also other ways to save that are practical:
- Keep the policy active and pay on time to avoid a lapse or cancellation.
- Compare quotes using identical liability limits, deductibles and Section B coverage.
- Combine auto insurance with home, condo or tenant insurance.
- Ask about low-mileage or usage-based insurance if you drive infrequently.
- Consider a higher collision or comprehensive deductible if you could afford it after a claim.
- Review optional endorsements instead of renewing them automatically.
- Pay annually if the insurer charges financing or instalment fees.
How Does Car Insurance Work When Moving to Montreal From Another Province?
If you become a resident of Montreal, you must adhere to Quebec’s licensing, registration and insurance rules. Get in touch with the SAAQ and a private insurer as soon as possible; do not assume that your home province’s licence, registration and policy will continue to apply.
Also, be sure to have evidence of prior insurance and driving experience; this may be helpful for the insurer to calculate your rate. Ensure that your personal policy contains the mandatory civil-liability coverage in Quebec. Bodily injury is covered by the SAAQ (public plan).
Why Is Car Insurance So Expensive for Some Young Montreal Drivers?
A younger driver from Montreal might not have much licensed or insured experience. Other factors like the vehicle, address where the vehicle is parked, the number of kilometers you drive each year, your driving record, and the coverage you choose can also make your quote higher.
Make sure your insurer has correctly listed your driving record and previous insurance. Inquire if they offer discounted rates for taking an approved driver education course, having previous driving experience, or being an occasional driver. Make sure you are comparing quotes based on the same level of civil liability coverage, deductible amounts and vehicle coverage in order to ensure you’re comparing like-for-like quotes.
Construction, Winter Parking, and Dense Montreal Traffic
Construction on, or winter parking restrictions along, a Montreal road could make you take a detour. Be sure to check Québec 511 for updated road conditions and local borough news for parking changes. Leave plenty of room for cyclists and pedestrians to use the roads. Review your comprehensive coverage for theft and non-collision damage.
Read More: Winter Driving Advice for Montreal’s Snowy and Icy Streets
The Most Common Questions About Car Insurance in Montreal
How much is car insurance in Montreal?
The median annual quote listed on this page is $1,636 or $136 per month. That’s $584 more than the current Quebec benchmark of $1,052. Compare your personal quotes by entering the same vehicle, civil-liability limit, deductibles and optional protection.
What are car insurance rates for Montreal students?
Currently, there isn’t one set Montreal student rate. Quotes will vary based on driving experience, insurance history, driving record, vehicle, address, and coverage. Ask if taking a recognized driver training course or being listed as an occasional driver can affect the price.
How do Montreal car insurance rates compare to other cities in Quebec?
Montreal’s $1,636 median is 55.5 percent higher than the Quebec average of $1,052. It could be due to density, the area’s theft history, the number of collision insurance claims, the car itself, or where the car is parked, though the available information doesn’t pinpoint a reason.
How can you get cheaper auto insurance in Montreal?
To compare car insurance rates in Montreal with MyChoice, visit the comparison page for MyChoice car insurance or go to our main car insurance page to learn other ways of getting cheap car insurance quotes.
