October 1 is National Seniors Day in Canada, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of seniors in our communities.
We’ve compiled a list of articles with simple tips to help seniors save money on car insurance and travel insurance this year to show our gratitude. Check out the best insurance reads for seniors from 2021:
How can seniors save money on car insurance?
Many people over the age of 60 have racked up years of experience behind the wheel, driving to and from work — before retirement, that is — taking scenic road trips, tending to family and, of course, running day-to-day errands.
Ideally, with each passing year, drivers build useful knowledge and practical skills to make them safer on the roads. Insurance providers reward good drivers for these safe-driving habits with discounts and reduced premiums.
Spending less time on the road can also help drivers save more. Whether it’s because of a usage-based or pay-as-you-go insurance program, a mileage discount, or a roadside assistance membership, there are plenty of ways for seniors to lower their premiums.
How an at-fault collision affects car insurance premiums by age group
No matter your age, an at-fault collision will increase your car insurance premium for up to six years. However, your age may determine how much you will pay. According to RATESDOTCA data, Ontario drivers aged 75 or older who have at least one at-fault collision pay 49% more for auto insurance than their cohorts with clean driving records.
This same age group pays 22% more for an auto policy in Alberta if they have an at-fault collision than their counterparts with none.
While insurance providers will typically decrease the surcharge drivers pay with each collision-free year, drivers should shop around at renewal time. A new insurance company may put less weight on an old collision, offering a lower premium for the same amount of coverage.
Don't waste time calling around for auto insurance
Use RATESDOTCA to shop around, and compare multiple quotes at the same time.
9 questions to ask yourself if you’re a newbie snowbird
Planning to leave the country for an extended period is not as easy as you might think — especially during a pandemic. While you may only need to book a hotel and flight for a weekend getaway, you’ll need to make arrangements for your car, home, and financial responsibilities if you are gone for six months at a time.
Seasoned snowbirds likely have their routines down pat, setting up automatic timers for their lights, employing a snow removal company for the winter months, and notifying their banks with travel itineraries. But new snowbirds will have a lot to learn before migrating to warmer climates with the same ease.
What happens if your baggage is lost or stolen? Or you get sick abroad? We highlight nine questions newbie snowbirds should ask themselves before heading south.
A fundamental insurance guide for snowbirds
For experienced snowbirds and newcomers alike, there are several fundamental items travellers should not leave home without.
From prescription medication and eyewear to international phone plans and home maintenance, our guide for snowbirds offers simple reminders to keep you organized and ready for your trip.
Need a vacation? Get a vaccination
The U.S.-Canadian land border remains closed for non-essential travel until at least October 21 — concerning many snowbirds, 70% of which travel to the U.S. using their Canadian vehicles, according to the Canadian Snowbird Association.
Air travel to the U.S. has been open to Canadians since the pandemic began; however, changes are coming in early November. The White House recently announced plans to open air travel to all vaccinated foreign nationals, though questions remain as the U.S. doesn’t recognize mixing COVID vaccines.
Depending on the country, fully vaccinated travellers may be permitted to enter tourist destinations, restaurants, cafés, and indoor public events more freely with proof of vaccination. Additionally, some travel insurance coverage is contingent on receiving two doses of a Health Canada-authorized COVID-19 vaccine.
Can you buy travel insurance after leaving Canada?
As you prepare for your trip, consider the essential items you will need before departing Canada. An updated passport and driver’s licence will make things go smoothly. But there is another equally important item that may slip your mind — travel insurance. Despite being able to purchase travel insurance after leaving the country, you may face a delay in coverage or exclusions.
You could be subject to a waiting period of 24-28 hours before your policy is active. The insurance company must mitigate the risk of a traveller purchasing coverage after they are injured or hospitalized. Pre-existing health conditions may increase your wait time and require an assessment or declaration form, which you may not be able to provide from abroad.
Additionally, travellers won’t be able to buy trip interruption or trip cancellation coverage if they’ve left Canada. Proper planning can ensure you have the right coverage from the moment your journey begins.
Don't waste time calling around for travel insurance
Use RATESDOTCA to shop around, and compare multiple quotes at the same time.
Finding the best travel insurance coverage has never been so easy!
