Don’t Let it Expire! Auto Insurance Renewal Made Easy in Port Coquitlam.
by adminIt might just be one of the most forgettable chores on your annual to-do list: renewing your auto insurance. We all have our reasons for forgetting about our car insurance like kids, work, school, or simply a packed schedule. If you are new to Port Coquitlam, you might not even be aware that you need to renew your auto insurance annually to maintain coverage. However, letting your insurance lapse is not a joke, it can have serious financial and legal consequences and lead to higher premiums when you do renew.
Why Do We Have to Renew Auto Insurance Annually?
You drive the same car, live at the same address, and commute to the same office, so why do you need to renew your car insurance every year? Government-operated insurance providers like ICBC generally require drivers to renew their auto insurance plans annually to help ensure that their risk factors haven’t changed and to maintain regulatory compliance. Even if your situation and driving factors haven’t changed, going over your policy once a year gives you the chance to adjust your coverage, take advantage of potential discounts, or add optional coverage that may better suit your needs.
What Happens if I Forget to Renew My Auto Insurance?
Auto insurance is mandatory to help keep drivers, pedestrians, and other road users safe. In the event of an accident or vehicle damage, your auto insurance will cover the cost of repairs, medical expenses, and liability claims. However, if you do not have valid auto insurance, you are personally liable for your damages and medical bills, and ICBC could pursue you for the costs of any other parties involved in the accident.
Driving without valid auto insurance is not only dangerous and potentially extremely costly but it’s also illegal. If you’re caught driving with expired insurance, you could face hefty fines and vehicle impoundment. In 2023 alone, over 16,800 tickets were issued to drivers with expired car insurance in B.C.
Hassle-Free Auto Insurance Renewal in Port Coquitlam
The good news is that renewing your ICBC auto insurance is quick, easy, and, in many cases, can be done without leaving the comfort of your home.
In-Home Auto Insurance
Did you know your auto insurance provider can come to you for your auto insurance renewal instead of you going to them? Yes, it is that simple. As early as 44 days before your policy expiration date, you can set up an in-home appointment with your insurance broker to have them change, modify, or renew your auto insurance coverage.
Over the Phone or Through Email
If you prefer less face-to-face interaction, you can also quickly renew your auto insurance over the phone by calling your ICBC Autoplan broker. Some brokers might even offer the option to renew via email. Either way, make sure you have your renewal notice, license, and any other required documents on hand and ready to go.
Online
ICBC recently launched an online auto insurance renewal system, making it easier than ever to manage your policy. While not all policies can be renewed online, many drivers with basic coverage can complete the process without needing to visit a broker in person. Simply log in to your ICBC account, follow the steps, and finalize your renewal from the comfort of your home.
Save the Date
This year don’t leave your auto insurance renewal to the last minute. With so many easy ways to have your auto insurance taken care of, there is no reason to risk getting caught without. So, set a reminder in your calendar or reach out to a Port Coquitlam Autoplan broker today!