Drive responsibly, save more: Tips to lower your insurance premiums 

When it comes to car insurance, maintaining a good driving record isn't just about staying safe on the road—it can also save you a significant amount of money on your insurance premiums. 

Insurance companies assess the risk of insuring a driver based on various factors, and your driving record plays a pivotal role. 

The good news is that being a responsible and cautious driver can help keep your premiums low. Maintaining a clean driving record, avoiding traffic violations and taking advantage of programs that reward safe driving can all contribute to significant savings. 

Here are some of CAA Insurance’s expert tips on how being a responsible driver can lower your car insurance rates in Ontario. 

Maintaining a good driving record 

A clean driving record is one of the easiest ways to keep your car insurance premiums low. Insurance companies view safe drivers as less risky and reward them with lower rates.  

The longer you maintain a clean driving history, the better it looks to insurers, which could translate into savings on your insurance premiums. 

The impact of traffic tickets 

Traffic tickets are a major red flag for insurers. If you have multiple violations on your driving record, insurance companies will see you as a higher-risk driver, which can result in significantly higher premiums.  

On the other hand, staying ticket-free not only helps you avoid fines but also helps you keep your insurance rates low. A speeding ticket or failure to stop at a red light can cause your premiums to rise, and the impact can linger for years.  

Avoiding traffic violations is an easy and effective way to decrease insurance costs. 

Accidents and their impact 

Accidents are another key factor that insurance companies consider when calculating your premiums. Being involved in an at-fault accident can impact your car insurance rates for several years.  

A single at-fault car accident can raise your premiums significantly, as insurers view you as a higher-risk driver. 

However, CAA Insurance offers a helpful solution through its Forgive and Forget® program. If you're involved in your first at-fault accident, your premiums will not rise.  

They will keep your auto insurance rate the same, allowing you to maintain your current premium without penalty.  

Monitoring your driving for discounts 

In addition to maintaining a clean record, actively monitoring your driving habits can help lower your insurance rates. Many insurance companies offer programs that track your driving behaviour through a device installed in your vehicle.  

With CAA Connect®, you can lower your insurance rates by tracking your driving habits. Simply plug in the device, and it monitors factors like speed and driving time. You can even check your score through a mobile app or online portal.  

CAA Connect encourages safer habits and rewards you with discounts¹ for driving responsibly. 

Maintaining a clean driving record and adopting safe driving habits are key factors in keeping your car insurance low in Ontario.  

By avoiding traffic violations, staying accident-free and taking advantage of programs like CAA Connect, you can reduce your risk profile and unlock valuable discounts. Safe driving pays off, so make it a priority to drive responsibly and track your habits for even greater savings. 

1 Maximum discount while enrolled in the CAA Connect program is 15% on renewal after one year. 

Auto Insurance is underwritten by CAA Insurance Company. ® Forgive and Forget is a trademark owned by CAA Insurance Company. ®CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. Certain conditions, limitations and underwriting guidelines apply.