Parking in Montreal: 7 mistakes that can cost you

Failing to read the parking signs

In Montreal, finding an open spot doesn’t necessarily mean you can park there. Take a few minutes to carefully read the signs nearby. Pay close attention to any additional tab signs displayed below the main parking signs. Days, times, maximum durations, required parking permits, restricted periods: just one misinterpreted detail can turn a seemingly ideal parking spot into a pretty hefty parking ticket! Certain parking restrictions in Montreal also vary from one borough to another.

Will a parking ticket increase my insurance premium?

Rest assured: while a parking ticket will cost you money, it won’t increase your insurance premium. It will not appear on your driving record, and you will not be assigned any demerit points. As a result, your insurer does not take them into account when assessing your risk to determine your auto insurance premium. However, be sure to pay your tickets on time to avoid administrative complications.

Accumulating demerit points while driving

Demerit points and auto insurance: do they increase my premium?

Offences committed while you are driving—such as driving without a seat belt or speeding, as observed by a police officer, for example—not only result in a traffic ticket but also affect your driving record. Although a minor traffic ticket alone does not necessarily lead to a rate increase in every case, remember that demerit points and auto insurance don’t mix!

What happens if I get a photo radar ticket?

If you receive a ticket from a photo radar device, including speed and red-light cameras, it is considered an administrative violation rather than a traffic violation. This is because the vehicle was caught in the act, but the driver’s identity cannot be confirmed with certainty. A photo radar device only captures the license plate, not the person behind the wheel. Therefore, a speeding ticket issued by photo radar does not result in any demerit points.

Choosing a parking spot that’s too small

A parking spot that seems just big enough for your car can quickly turn out to be a bad choice. If you have to make several maneuvers to squeeze in, or if the vehicles next to you are already very close together, it’s sometimes better to look for another spot. If you’re not sure whether you’ll be able to get in or out of the space easily, don’t force it. Taking a few extra minutes to find a more spacious spot can save a lot of hassle.

Even at low speeds, a parking lot accident can still cause significant damage to your vehicle. Driving safely and following these other tips could help you save on your auto insurance premium!

Forgetting to check the surrounding area

Before backing up or opening your car door, take a moment to check your surroundings. A pole, a fire hydrant, a low wall, a trash can, a vehicle parked very close by, or even a cyclist approaching can easily go unnoticed.

Before making any maneuver, it’s a good habit to visually scan your surroundings, then use your mirrors and, when necessary, the backup camera as additional tools. However, you shouldn’t rely solely on driver-assistance technologies: it’s still important to check your surroundings yourself, especially when it comes to checking your blind spots.

Parking in a risky spot

In Montreal, some parking spots can be riskier than others. A spot that is isolated, poorly lit or located in an area where vehicles travel at high speeds may be worth avoiding, even if it is available and convenient.

Whenever possible, choose a well lit, visible and fairly open area. Where you choose to park can also affect your risk of theft or vandalism. This type of incident could lead to a claim if you have the appropriate coverage (and remember that you must report any claim, no matter how small!).

Ignoring fire hydrants

Fire hydrants must remain accessible to emergency responders. In Quebec, it is illegal to park a vehicle within 3 metres of a fire hydrant, unless the regulations provide for an exception. If you’re not sure whether you’re far enough away, it’s better to move your vehicle. In this case, the risk isn’t only that you might get a ticket. A vehicle blocking access to a fire hydrant could hinder firefighters during an emergency.

Not adapting to winter

In Montreal, street parking calls for extra caution when snow becomes a factor. Snow removal operations may result in temporary parking restrictions, which are indicated by signs posted near the affected streets.

The City recommends parking your vehicle about 30 cm from the curb, folding in the side mirrors and avoiding parking at an angle to allow snow removal vehicles to pass more easily.

Before leaving your vehicle overnight, be sure to check the signs. During snow removal operations, temporary signs indicate the times when parking is prohibited. Temporary signs take precedence over permanent signs, and if they are not obeyed, your vehicle could be towed and you could be hit with a fine.

And keep in mind: snow removal isn’t the only reason you might need to move your vehicle. In Montreal, parking restrictions may also be imposed to allow for street cleaning, maintenance work, tree inspections or other activities.