List of the best auto insurance companies in Ontario
Buying car insurance in Ontario can seem like a daunting task between the above average insurance rates in the province and the wide range of insurance companies offering various coverages, rates, and discounts. To make your decision easier, we have put together a list of the top twelve insurance companies in Ontario when it comes to car insurance.
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Allstate
While established in Illinois in 1931, Allstate has been providing insurance to Canadians since 1953. Allstate Insurance Company of Canada falls under one of the largest insurance companies in the world, The Allstate Corporation. Allstate was one of the first insurance companies in Ontario, with their headquarters in Markham, Ontario. Whether home or auto insurance, Allstate provides insurance to those in Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. With over 90 agencies across Canada, Allstate provides easy access to over 2400 insurance agents and employees. Many drivers choose Allstate for their car insurance because of their discounts such as bundling home and auto insurance policies, installing winter tires or anti-theft devices, student discounts, and customer loyalty discounts. Allstate has a program called The Good Hands Network®, which helps customers across the country get a hold of their insurance agents at any time from anywhere, whether in person, on the phone or online.
Pros
- Bundling. The company offers many forms of insurance and access promising rates on insurance bundles.
- Add-ons. Allstate provides a range of add-on insurances as well as a good basic insurance outline which include discounts such as new car discounts and reduced rates for security measures such as anti-lock brakes.
- Transparency. Allstate does have a dedicated team — the Sustainability Leadership Team — working towards improving the company’s sustainability. So far it has collected Environmental Impact Data from suppliers. It publishes the data in a yearly update about the company’s greenhouse gas emissions and its strategy to reduce carbon use.
Cons
- Reducing Claims. In the past, Allstate has been accused of fighting clients’ claims. In 2007, CNN correspondents Drew Griffin and Kathleen Johnson reported that large insurance companies were failing to support their client’s requests for insurance payouts, offering settlements as low as $50 to drivers injured in crashes.
- In the past, Allstate have also been known to reduce operations in areas badly affected by natural disasters, refusing to renew client’s insurance policies in the wake of hurricanes and flooding. As a result of these complaints, Allstate announced a reorganization of its approach to clients.
Aviva
Aviva is one of the top insurance companies in Canada. They are an extremely long standing insurance company, dating back to as early as the 17th century. Since their debut, Aviva has grown to have over three million customers in Canada. Like most insurance companies in Ontario, Aviva offers a variety of discounts on car insurance to their customers including drivers who install an automatic emergency brake system, drivers who stay conviction free for three years, retired drivers, and customers who purchase multiple policies from them. Aviva car insurance customers benefit from their various programs such as disappearing deductible , conviction protection, roadside assistance, customer satisfaction, rental car discounts, hotel accommodation, and more. Should you need to file a claim, you can do so either over the phone or online. Representatives are available for support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Pros
- Non-standard coverage options. Aviva offers non-standard coverage to pair with your auto insurance such as Equine Insurance.
- Bundling. Aviva offers several kinds of property insurance and will also be able to offer bundle insurance deals.
- Digital services. Aviva has been making headlines for their pioneering use of technology to simplify the claims process. Most recently, the company has followed in its parent company’s footsteps and adopted the CoreLogic digital insurance hub which aims to streamline the claims process.
Cons
- Aviva’s standard coverage is pretty basic. This means it will be up to you to find the add-ons that will necessarily expand your policy and these add-ons can add up quickly.
- Limited ride-share coverage. If you are interested in driving for a taxi service such as Lyft, Aviva will only cover ride-share insurance in one province: Ontario.
- Despite its claim to smooth out the claims process with new software systems, customer reviews have frequently pointed out their negative experience with claims adjusters, customer service and the renewal process. The company currently holds a B- rating with the Better Business Bureau with a total of 35 complaints.
belairdirect
Belairdirect got their start in Ontario and Quebec in 1955, and has been delivering both auto and home insurance policies for over 60 years. They were actually the first car insurance company in North America to provide car insurance to customers online. Belairdirect offers customers accident forgiveness and the automerit program, and can offer a variety of insurance policies suited to your specific needs. Should you need to speak to a broker or manage your policy, belairdirect customers can access the “Client Centre” 24/7, to access documents and track claims. Belairdirect is known for their affordable car insurance, as they strive to find ways to deliver cost-effective insurance policies to their customers. One way of doing so is by offering a variety of discounts. For example, discounts are available to those who bundle their home insurance and auto insurance policies, have multiple belairdirect car insurance policies, and have a clean driving record free of convictions. Belairdirect makes it easy for customers to track their claims status with their online claims tracking service.
Canadian Auto Association (CAA)
Named the most trusted brand in Canada, CAA is a not-for-profit comprising eight entities delivering emergency roadside service, full automotive and travel services, and complete insurance services to over 6.4 million members. CAA was established in 1974 and has since become one of the largest consumer-based organizations in Canada. Customers can take advantage of several discounts including multi-vehicle policies, participating in the CAA Connect program, and installing winter tires. The CAA Connect program is in place to reward customers for safe driving practices. All it takes is attaching a small device to your vehicle which monitors your driving habits. CAA also offers a Forgive and Forget program, which is comparable to an accident forgiveness program, allowing you to get away for your first at-fault accident as if it never happened. To make things easier, CAA has an app that customers can download on their phone that will store member information. This app can also connect you with a CAA representative, help you find roadside assistance, find nearby gas stations, and research quotes for a new battery.
Desjardins Insurance
Alphonse Desjardins first formed Desjardins Insurance in Quebec in 1900 as a credit union. Desjardins Insurance is a trademark of the Desjardins General Insurance Group (DGIG), which was founded in 1944. To date, this company has grown to provide Canadians with a range of insurance, investment, and financial services and DGIG ranks among the top insurance companies in Canada. Desjardins insurance policies are underwritten by Certas Direct Insurance Company, the third largest property and casualty insurance company in the country. Canadians have been using Desjardins Insurance for both home and auto insurance needs for over 60 years and have access to a licensed insurance advisor whenever they need them.
Like most insurance companies, Desjardins insurance customers can get a variety of discounts on their auto insurance including multi vehicle policies, bundling home and auto insurance policies, installing winter tires, keeping a clean driving record, and owning a fuel-efficient hybrid or electric vehicle. There is an app available to Desjardins customers however it is focused on their investment and financial services rather than car insurance services. You can reach Desjardins by phone 24/7.
Pros
- Community approach: Desjardins advertises its community interest heavily. In 2017 TVA Nouvelles reported that the company was funnelling around $200 million into different communities across Quebec. Over 30% of their branches operate in small towns of fewer than 2000 people which to Guy Cormier, CEO of the Desjardins Group, symbolizes the network’s devotion to the public.
- UBI Coverage. Desjardins was the first to wildly offer Usage-Based Insurance, allowing drivers with low mileages to pay much less for their insurance coverage. Their early entry on the UBI system means they offer the best rates for this kind of insurance.
- Cooperative model. Desjardins began a large recruiting push in 2013 and in doing so, publicized their cooperative business model. This model essentially tries to prioritizes employees’ family lives and work/life balance.
Cons
- Customer service. Despite its cooperative model intend to make happier employees and better customer service, Desjardins’ customer service has been negatively reviewed across several platforms. The Better Business Bureau gives the company a C rating.
- Difficulty with adjusters. Several customers have left reviews outlining problems they have had obtaining accurate damages assessments following accidents.
Economical
Economical is one of the leading auto and property insurance providers in Canada. They were established in 1871, and are headquartered in Waterloo, Ontario. Economical has grown over the years to serve over one million Canadians. Looking for a discount on your car insurance? Economical offers a variety of discounts to their customers whether for insuring multiple vehicles on a single policy, combining home and auto insurance policies, safe driving, installing an anti-theft device, etc. Beyond discounts, there are several specific programs that cater to different types of customers. Group insurance is available through Economical and they are also one of the few insurance companies that offer high-risk car insurance to those who have bad driving records and are struggling to find a car insurance policy as a result. Economical also offers other unique insurance policies such as insurance for motorhomes, antique vehicles, and RVs.
Pros
- Bundling. Economical Insurance provides a range of services with the option to bundle auto, home, and other property insurance plans.
- Simple Claims process. The company has managed to make the claims process streamline and efficient.
- Good Employer. In 2013, Training Magazine ranked Economical as one of the top 125 companies for employee development.
- Financial Stability A.M. Rating agency confirmed the company’s fast growing revenue and gave Economical a A credit rating. This means the company will be in a good positions to pay claims.
- Cost efficiency. Economical Insurance offers a range of reasonably and reliably priced insurance plans.
Cons
- Slight structural instability. In 2010, Economical Insurance announced a plan to switch the company’s structure from centralized ownership to making customers shareholders. However, while the process is still on hold, the switch could prove appealing to some.
- Staff layoffs. In 2012-13, the Waterloo Record reported that the company eliminated 280 people from its staff, potentially pointing to pre-existing structural struggles.
- Economical Insurance is not an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau and receives between a B- and D rating for customer satisfaction.
Intact
Intact was originally founded in 1809 and purchased by a Dutch company years later in the 1950s. In 1991, they merged with NMB Postbank and became ING Group. Today, Intact Insurance is Canada’s largest home, auto and business insurance company, serving over four million customers. Intact’s countrywide availability and strong relationship with insurance brokers allow them to deliver the highest quality customer service, never failing to provide peace of mind. Intact customers can receive discounts on their car insurance by enrolling in their driver education program or by bundling home insurance and auto insurance policies. They also have a Driving Discount Program which allows those with good driving habits to get cheaper insurance rates. This is done using their app which gathers information such as the time of their trips, acceleration rates, and braking rates, Intact also offers insurance for motorcycles, boats, snowmobiles, and RVs.
Pros
- Reach. Intact insurance offers reasonably priced plans in all Canadian provinces.
- Perks for good drivers. If you’re a safe driver, you’ll reap generous rewards over time.
Cons
- Average to poor customer service. Customers online have voiced complaints surrounding the company’s claims process from refusing to pay for adequate repairs to being completely unresponsive.
- “Hidden fees.” Some customers have complained that the company’s online quote estimates are far from what they were asked to pay in person and that cancellation fees are difficult to tie down before you actually purchase a policy.
Jevco
Jevco Insurance Company has been meeting the insurance needs of Ontario customers for over thirty years. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Jevco is known for offering non-standard personal automobile insurance. As of 2012, Jevco falls under the Intact Financial Corporation (IFC), which as mentioned above, is the biggest provider of home, car, and business insurance in the country. What makes Jevco unique is that they focus on delivering insurance solutions to those who need non-standard car insurance such as private passenger vehicles or need high-risk insurance. High-risk insurance is for those who have difficulties getting insurance elsewhere due to having multiple convictions on their record, license suspensions, issues filing claims, or otherwise. Jevco was also one of the first companies to insure Uber drivers and provide discounts to those customers who decide to become Uber drivers. Customers can reach Jevco insurance representative for support 24/7.
Pros
- Reasonably priced. Jevco became part of the Intact Group in 2012. This incorporation has allowed Jevco to offer far more lower priced insurance plans than it previously could.
- High risk drivers. Jevco are known to help high risk drivers access lower priced premiums and protect their customers from an extensive range of offenses. If you have a poor driving record or a history with filing claims, Jevco might be your best bet at securing a lower priced plan.
- Good customer service. The company places an emphasis on designing their customer for simplicity and real human connection.
- Non-standard vehicles. Jevco covers an extensive range of non-standard vehicles, from motorcycles to commercial vans and trucks.
Cons
- Only available in Ontario. So far, Jevco is only taking on clients in one Canadian province.
- Higher rates. Because the company focuses on high-risk drivers, their rates tend to be more expensive than you would pay with a clean record at a different insurer.
RBC Insurance
RBC Insurance is a part of the Royal Bank of Canada, which was founded in Halifax, Nova Scotia in 1864. Whether you’re looking for health, home, auto, travel or business insurance, RBC has you covered. Available almost everywhere in Canada, RBC Insurance has approximately 2,500 employees and serves over four million clients globally. RBC Insurance customers can lower their car insurance rates by taking advantage of several discounts available including multi-vehicle policies, having no claims history, being retired or installing winter tires or an anti-theft device. RBC also offers an accident forgiveness program and family protection endorsement. Should you wish to get in touch with an RBC Insurance representative, they can be reached 24/7 both online and over the phone.
Pros
- Services across Canada. RBC operates in all Canadian provinces.
- Competitive pricing. The company’s size and impressive range allow them to offer well priced insurance prices.
- Claims services. RBC clients can request anonymous advising before filing a claim.
- Well designed online experience. The RBC website is easy to navigate and intuitive. You can purchase an insurance plan directly from their website.
- Bundling option. RBC offers a large range of property insurance which can lower the overall price when bundled.
Cons
- Average customer service. While the company might appear high on certain customer service rankings, the Better Business Bureau has issued the company a B rating.
- No UBI policies. If you drive short distances and don’t want to shell out for a standard insurance policy, RBC cannot offer usage-based coverage.
- No app. While the company’s website is streamlined and efficient, it has not yet released a mobile app.
Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI)
In 1944, the Government of Saskatchewan passed The Saskatchewan Government Insurance Act, creating the provincial Crown corporation that is known today as SGI. Since its beginning, SGI’s mission has been to provide complete, affordable insurance policies to Saskatchewan residents, however the company has grown to offer insurance to those in Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba. SGI offers discounts to those who have been with the company for three years, have good driving records, hold multiple vehicles under one policy, are retired, and those who live on a farm and farming is their primary income.
Pros
- Local services. As a crown corporation, SGI offers its clients an in-depth knowledge of the provincial insurance system.
- Standardized pricing. Because it is run by provincial government bodies, SGI prices are reliable and predictable.
- Bundling option. SGI offers many property insurance plans, including farm and cargo insurance, which can be bundled to lower overall cost.
- Good customer service. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives SGI an A+ in its estimate of the company’s interactions with customers.
Cons
- Limited services. Because it is a crown corporation, SGI only offers its services in Saskatchewan and Alberta. However, the company is looking to expand into the Ontarian insurance market.
- Pricing. While crown corporations offer standard pricing, the lack of competition in the insurance market means that their prices are higher on average than with private providers.
TD Insurance
TD Insurance offers a large variety of insurance including car insurance, home and tenant insurance, travel, RV insurance, life insurance, accident and sickness, and more. They are part of the TD bank group, which is based in Toronto, Ontario. TD Insurance allows businesses and other associations to take advantage of group rates and they also offer a range of discounts to their customers. For example, you may be eligible for a discount on TD car insurance if you install winter tires or an anti-theft device, are a full-time student, drive a hybrid or electric vehicle , bundle multiple vehicles under a single policy or bundle home and auto insurance policies. There is a TD app available to support customers when filing claims.
Pros
- TD is a large insurance provider offering services to customers in Canada and the US.
- Accessible business hours. TD prides itself on accessible business hours with many branches open on weekends.
Cons
- Customer service. The Better Business Bureau gives TD General Insurance Company a rating of F (the lowest possible rating). TDGIC is not accredited by the BBB.
- Slow claims process. In line with the customer service ratings, policy holders have voiced complaints about the company being difficult to reach and refusing to communicate transparently about their claims handling process.
Travelers
Recently new to the Canadian Insurance Market, Travelers is made up of The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company and Travelers Insurance Company of Canada . Travelers prides themselves on recommending the best car, home or business coverage, educating their clients on ways to reduce risk, and helping them manage their claims. This company has approximately 1700 employees in Canada, spread out between Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, London, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Dartmouth. With a focus on car insurance, Travelers offer discounts to those who have multiple vehicles under one policy, pass a drivers education course, bundle home and auto insurance policies, and practice safe driving/hold a conviction-free record. Travelers insurance has an app for policyholders to report claims, make payments, view coverage, contact a claims agent, and more.
If you can’t decide which car insurance company is best for you, let us help you. At Complete Car, we will help you shop around and find the best car insurance policy suited to your needs. Shop around and compare quotes online today!
Pros
- Website and app. Travelers Insurance’s website is easy to navigate and offers advice to clients about claims. The mobile app allows you to pay bills, file claims and view your own policy.
- Bundling options. There are many home and auto insurance bundles available.
- Good customer service. Travelers holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
- Accident and violation forgiveness. Every three years, the company will forgive collisions and driving infractions.
- Discounts. Travelers offer a range of discounts on their car insurance rates.
Cons
- Not the cheapest. Customers looking for cheap car insurance might be disappointed with the selection at Travelers which offer average to high rates. However these costs can be offset by using the many discounts available.
- Bundling compromise. While the company allows you to bundle insurance policies, the home insurance prices have been flagged as higher than average and much less appealing than the auto insurance options.
