Snowmobile insurance: Your essential guide for a safe ride

1. Snowmobile insurance: third-party liability coverage is a must!

It’s mandatory for snowmobile owners in Quebec to have at least $1 million in civil liability insurance, as required by the Act respecting off-highway vehicles. And if you're exploring trails outside Quebec, $2 million in coverage is recommended.

If you're responsible for a snowmobile accident, third-party liability insurance will compensate for any property damage or injuries to others. Remember, as the driver, you must always have proof of insurance with you to avoid fines. Make sure you keep all the required documents handy in case you’re asked to show them.

2. Other snowmobile coverage to consider

Third-party liability insurance is mandatory. But you can add other coverage options to your snowmobile policy, just like you can to your automobile or recreational vehicle policy.

Snowmobile insurance can include coverage for collisions and rollovers, along with “all-risk” coverage for fire, theft or vandalism. It’s a good idea to get multiple insurance quotes online to compare the coverage options and costs.

3. Increase your coverage with riders

Adding riders to your snowmobile insurance policy can offer additional protection, though it will raise your premium. Look into options like coverage that pays the original purchase price if your snowmobile is a total loss, or “replacement value” coverage to guard against depreciation for a maximum of four years.

4. Bundle your policies to save money

Many insurance providers offer snowmobile insurance policies. Although the premium you pay depends on a number of factors—your driving experience, the type of snowmobile and of course the coverage you choose—bundling all your insurance policies with one insurance company can save you a lot of money.

When shopping for snowmobile insurance quotes, think about the bigger picture. See how much you could save by combining your snowmobile insurance with your automobile, recreational vehicle and home insurance. As an added bonus, having all your policies with one company makes it easier for you to manage them!

5. Snowmobile theft: keep thieves at bay

Whether you own a Ski-Doo, Polaris, Yamaha or Arctic Cat, snowmobile theft is a serious issue. Make sure you keep your snowmobile in a secure location and double-lock it. For more tips to keeping your snowmobile safe from thieves, read our article on how to prevent your snowmobile from being stolen!

6. Snowmobile accidents: debunking a myth

To operate a snowmobile, it’s mandatory to have registration and to wear a helmet at all times. The Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) makes an important clarification on the snowmobile section of their website.

The key point is that snowmobiles are considered off-road vehicles. This means injuries are not covered by the SAAQ's public compensation plan. However, according to the SAAQ, “if you have an accident involving an automobile or any other vehicle operating on a public roadway, you may receive compensation for your injuries.”

7. Hitting the trails: permit required

The Fédération des clubs de motoneige du Québec (FCMQ) manages trail access rights in Quebec. With your sticker or membership card, you can enjoy all the club trails across Quebec. The fee you pay for trail access also helps pay for trail maintenance, ensuring you get the most out of your snowmobiling outings.

And with your FCMQ membership, you also get liability insurance coverage of one million dollars. But be careful! The liability insurance policy is only in force while your card is valid and does not renew automatically.

Now that you know more about snowmobile insurance, you’re all set to enjoy the season. And remember, drive safely and adhere to speed limits for a great time on the trails.