For many of us, driving is a routine activity that feels second nature. Our driving habits take years to develop, but are they right? Poor driving habits can increase the risk of accidents, leading to higher insurance rates. By driving carefully, you can maintain a clean driving record and keep your vehicle in good condition. And with a few helpful strategies, you can reduce your auto insurance costs.

5 driving habits to avoid
 

1. Distractions

When behind the wheel, it’s your responsibility to keep your attention focused on the road, even in a traffic jam. Many people multitask in today's fast-paced world, but it’s important to resist this temptation while driving. Using any hand-held device while driving is strictly prohibited. Even though using a hands-free communication device, voice commands, a built-in display screen, or a mounted GPS is allowed, they can still pose significant risks. These alternatives can be just as, if not more, distracting to drivers due to system errors, the time it takes to complete an action, and the intuitiveness of the devices. Any form of distraction can lead to accidents on the road.
 

2. Impatience and road rage

Staying calm while driving can be difficult. Frustrating situations like rush hour or road construction can really test your patience. However, it’s crucial to stay alert and maintain your composure. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s always safer to pull over than let frustration lead to aggressive driving. By practicing safe driving habits, you significantly reduce the risk of accidents. This provides everyone with a sense of security and helps lessen anxiety.
 

3. Speeding

Living in the fast lane can be thrilling, but it’s important to shift away from this mindset when driving. Why risk a speeding ticket or, even worse, causing an accident? This applies not only on highways but also in community safety zones, parking lots, and pedestrian crossings. Driving at high speeds reduces your reaction time and increases your braking distance – the distance needed to stop your vehicle after you start braking. Adhering to the speed limit is essential for protecting your driving record and keeping your vehicle unharmed.
 

4. Lack of visibility

Visibility is essential for safe driving. After it snows, it's a good habit to set aside extra time to clear your vehicle, including the roof. This helps maximize your field of vision once you're behind the wheel and lowers the risk of snow or ice chunks falling off and hitting vehicles behind you. Additionally, check your windshield washer fluid before you head out to ensure clear visibility.
 

5. Not adapting your driving

Failing to adapt your driving to different conditions can be dangerous. Each day brings unique challenges, and this principle applies when you’re driving. It’s important to consider road and weather conditions and adapt your driving accordingly – not just during winter on snow-covered roads. For example, a thaw followed by frost or light rain in cold weather can create black ice. On windy days, a sudden gust of wind can cause your vehicle to drift out of its lane. Adapting your driving to these conditions is important for preventing an accident.

How can I save on my auto insurance rate?
Your auto insurance rate is determined by several factors, including the make and model of your vehicle, your driving and insurance history, where you live, and more. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind to help you save on your auto insurance rate:
 

1. Maintain a good driving record

Your driving record plays a vital role in calculating your rate. This includes both your record and the records of any other household drivers who use the vehicle. Factors such as how long you’ve had your licence and the number of at-fault accidents and convictions you have are also taken into account. Consider signing up for usage-based insurance (UBI). UBI collects data like distance, braking, speed, and acceleration. This data is sent to your insurance provider, who can reward you for safe driving by customizing your insurance costs.
 

2. Be mindful of your insurance history

When determining your rate, insurance companies evaluate the risk associated with insuring you by reviewing your claims history. If you don’t have a history of claims, consider enhancing your coverage with an Accident Rating Waiver that ensures your premium won’t go up in the event of your first at-fault accident.
 

3. Choose your vehicle wisely and protect it

When it comes to auto insurance, the vehicle you drive plays a significant role in determining your rate. Insurers consider a vehicle's make, model, year, value, and potential repair costs¹. Safety features, including car alarms, the number of airbags, collision avoidance technology, and the vehicle's ability to protect its occupants during a collision, may also be considered¹.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you're planning to buy or lease a vehicle:
 

• Vehicles with lower-cost insurance ratings generally cost less to insure. For more information check the Insurance Bureau of Canada's (IBC) How Cars Measure Up in Canada.
• Vehicles that are more likely to be stolen tend to be more expensive to insure.
• The Canadian Loss Experience Automobile Rating (CLEAR) system uses insurance claims data to assess the likelihood of a specific vehicle being involved in a claim and its potential costs.

4. Talk to your insurance broker

There are many ways to save on auto insurance; some may surprise you! Here are a few discounts to consider:
 

• You live close to work.
• You're retired.
• You bundle your home and auto insurance.
• You own multiple vehicles.
• You've been with your insurer for three or more years.

It's a good idea to discuss your insurance options with a licensed broker to find the right coverage that suits your needs and ensures you don't miss out on any savings. If you're a current OTIP policyholder, contact us at 1-833-615-9329 to review your existing auto insurance policy and discuss additional optional coverage. If you’re not insured with OTIP and are shopping for auto insurance, call us at 1-833-494-0085 to get a quote and receive a $20 gift card of your choice!
 

1. Insurance Bureau of Canada – How Auto Insurance Rates are Set