WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF AN INCIDENT
In case of an incident, you’re not alone. Get advice and assistance from an expert at any time.
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First, make sure you’re safe
In the event of a collision, a fire, violent wind or hail, your own and your family’s safety should be your top priority. Feel free to call emergency services if required.
Take any steps you can to minimize the damage.
Start a car insurance claim
An incident can be a stressful experience. We’re there to help you make the right decisions and to guide you through each step of the claims process.
1. Reporting your claim
When you call, a claims adjuster will collect all the information required to ensure your claim goes smoothly. They will then analyze your car insurance policy to determine what coverage is in effect.
If your vehicle is not roadworthy, and the damage is covered by your insurance policy, you’ll be given vehicle replacement options to get you back on the road without delay.
Do I need to file a police report?
A police report is required for accidents with injuries, accidents outside Quebec and malicious acts (theft, hit-and-run, vandalism, etc.). Otherwise, a joint report is enough.
Are the items in my vehicle covered?
Damaged and stolen items are not usually covered by car insurance policies. They may, however, be covered by your home insurance policy. Ask your claims adjuster what coverage applies in your situation.
How do you know if the deductible applies?
The cause of the incident, the person at fault and the coverage in your insurance policy determine if you have to pay the deductible and how much it is. In the event of a claim, the adjuster will analyze your situation and tell you how much you have to pay if a deductible applies.
Will my premium go up if I make a claim?
Many factors influence changes to your insurance premium at renewal. Your years of experience as a driver, where you live, how you use your vehicle and the make of the insured vehicle all factor in. The number of claims you’ve made in recent years can also affect your premium, whether you’re at fault or not. The impact is less significant if you’re not at fault, though.
If you’re worried about having to pay a higher premium, you should consider bundling your insurance policies with the same insurer, choose coverage that meets your needs and drive carefully. Get more tips on how to lower your insurance premium in our Advice Zone.
2. Choice of repair shop
If your vehicle is damaged, we know you’ll want to get it repaired at a reputable shop as soon as possible. That’s why our insureds have access to a robust network of over 100 recommended partners. In addition to turnkey service, you get a lifetime warranty on repairs to your vehicle, so long as you own it.
More benefits:
- Estimates and direct payment at partner shop
- Free replacement (courtesy) vehicle
- Peace of mind
My go-to repair shop isn’t in your network. Can I still have them repair my vehicle?
You’re always free to choose your own repair shop.
3. Fault
At fault or not? If you have an accident, the claims adjuster will analyze the facts based on the Driver’s Fault Chart of the Direct Compensation Agreement for the Settlement of Automobile Claims. If required, the adjuster will hear each party’s side. The adjuster will then tell you what percentage of the damage you’re liable for and how much the deductible is, if there is one.
When does the Direct Compensation Agreement for the Settlement of Automobile Claims apply?
The Agreement applies to collisions occurring in Quebec between two or more vehicles or between a vehicle and another vehicle’s cargo and whose owners are identified. Collisions between vehicles with the same owner or where a driver hits their own vehicle are excluded.
The Agreement therefore does not apply to accidents occurring in the United States, hit-and-runs or tree collisions.
4. Damage estimate
Whether you were involved in a serious incident or a fender bender, an adjuster will determine what repairs your vehicle is entitled to based on your coverage.
Once the estimate is done, your repair shop will contact you for an appointment. If your vehicle cannot be repaired, the appraiser will assess its value at the time of the incident to determine your compensation.
What’s a total loss?
A vehicle is deemed a total loss when damaged to the point where it can’t be repaired or the repairs would cost more than the vehicle is worth.
How is a vehicle’s value determined during a claim?
Your vehicle’s condition at the time of the incident, its features, its mileage and the local market are the main criteria used to assess a vehicle’s value for a claim.
5. Payment of compensation
No need to wait for a cheque in the mail. If you deal with one of our network partners, we’ll make the payment for you once the job is done. If you have to pay a deductible, you’ll be able to do so at the shop.
If you go with a non-partner shop, we’ll send you a cheque to pay for the repairs. You’ll get it in the mail as soon as the cost of the repairs has been determined. Any applicable deductible will be taken off the amount.
Avoid problems when driving
Anyone can get into trouble or an accident on the road. But there are things you can do to reduce your risk. Before you get behind the wheel, visit our Advice Zone to learn how to avoid incidents when travelling.
Read our advice about car insurance