Proper Coverage for Dartmouth Car Insurance
Dartmouth is known for outdoor activities, and with increased activity comes increased auto accidents. Young drivers are among the most common victims in these cases, with those between the ages of 15 and 24 holding the highest rate of injuries and deaths after a car accident. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a first-time driver, it's best to speak with an agent about auto insurance in Dartmouth so you're protected on the road.
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of auto accidents in Dartmouth and the surrounding area. Approximately 80% of accidents are caused by distractions such as eating, having a conversation with passengers, changing the radio or checking the phone. It only takes one second of having your eyes off the road and you could be in an accident.
Speeding is another common cause of car crashes in the province. About 30% of fatal collisions are due to driving over the speed limit. With about 7.9% of all cars being involved in car accidents in the area, speeding is one of the greatest contributing factors.
Required Coverage for Auto Insurance in Dartmouth
In Dartmouth, drivers are required to hold a certain amount of insurance. Anything beyond the required minimum is up to the driver and should be discussed with the insurer. Required coverage includes:
- $500,000 in third-party liability
- $50,000 in accident benefits
- Uninsured/underinsured coverage
Dartmouth is a no-fault province. This means you can file a claim with your insurer regardless of which driver was at fault for the accident.
Recommended Auto Insurance Coverage
While they are not required in Dartmouth, a handful of other coverage types are available. Speaking with your insurance provider will help you determine what will be the most beneficial to you as a driver.
Collision
This type of coverage for auto insurance in Dartmouth is optional and will cover the repair costs for your car after any type of collision. If you hit a tree, the costs are covered. If you hit a guardrail, the costs are covered. It also covers the cost of a collision with another vehicle, including when the other driver flees the scene.
Comprehensive
There are many risks to your vehicle that are not associated with collisions at all. Damage from these risks can be covered by a comprehensive insurance policy. Some include flood or hail damage, as well as other weather-related risks. Comprehensive coverage also steps in to cover damage from an attempted burglary, vandalism and theft.
Roadside Assistance
When you run out of gas on the side of the road, your battery dies or you get a flat tire while on your commute, roadside assistance covers the cost to get those issues taken care of. It may cover the cost of a tow truck as well.
Specified Perils
Whether you have comprehensive insurance or not, there are some perils you need to specify in your policy to receive coverage. This could include damage from a riot, earthquake, explosion or tow truck. If certain perils are not specified, they typically don't fall under another category and may not be covered.
All Perils
Many drivers in Dartmouth opt for all perils coverage because it is the best of comprehensive and collision, with the addition of theft coverage. Especially if you have employees or family members who have access to the car, that theft coverage is beneficial.