Yes, it is possible to get car insurance policy on the weekend in Ontario. Many insurance companies in Ontario offer online services that are available 24/7, including weekends. You can also contact an insurance broker or agent, who may have weekend hours or be available through email or online chat.
If you prefer to visit an insurance company in person, it is important to check their hours of operation beforehand, as some may be closed on weekends. However, many insurance companies also have mobile apps or online portals that allow you to submit an application and receive a quote without having to visit an office.
While it is possible to purchase car insurance on the weekend, some insurance companies may not be able to process your policy until the next business day. Therefore, it is always best to contact the insurance company or broker in advance to confirm their hours and processing times.
Can I Drive A Car Without Insurance If I Just Bought It?
No, you cannot legally drive a car without insurance in Ontario, even if you just bought it and it’s on the weekend. It is mandatory for all drivers in Ontario to have valid auto insurance coverage before they can operate a vehicle on public roads.
When you purchase a new car, you typically have a grace period of a few days to get insurance coverage. However, during this grace period, you cannot legally drive the car on public roads. You can only drive the car on private property or to transport it to your home or the insurance company.
Therefore, if you just bought a car on the weekend in Ontario, it is important to contact an insurance company or broker as soon as possible to get coverage before driving the car on public roads. Driving without insurance in Ontario can result in fines, license suspension, and other serious penalties.
How To Get Car Insurance Before Buying A Car
In Ontario, you can get car insurance before buying a car by following these steps:
- Research insurance providers: Look for reputable insurance providers in Ontario that offer car insurance. You can check their websites, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from family and friends.
- Get quotes: Contact the insurance providers and request quotes for the type of coverage you need. Be sure to provide accurate information, such as your age, driving record, and the type of car you plan to purchase.
- Compare the quotes: Once you receive quotes from different insurance providers, compare the prices and coverage options. Choose the insurance provider that offers the best coverage at an affordable price.
- Buy the insurance: Once you have chosen an insurance provider, purchase the insurance policy. You can do this by calling the provider or by visiting their website.
- Provide the car details: Once you have purchased the insurance policy, you will need to provide the details of the car you plan to purchase, including the make, model, and VIN (vehicle identification number).
- Activate the coverage: After providing the car details, the insurance provider will activate the coverage on the date you specify. This will allow you to legally drive the car on public roads.
If you are financing the car, the lender may require you to have specific coverage levels or add-ons. Therefore, it is important to check with the lender before purchasing the insurance policy.
Buying a New Car Insurance Grace Period
The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy varies by province in Canada. Here are the grace periods for each province:
- Ontario: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 14 days.
- Quebec: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 48 hours.
- British Columbia: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 30 days.
- Alberta: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 7 days.
- Saskatchewan: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 7 days.
- Manitoba: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 7 days.
- Nova Scotia: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 30 days.
- New Brunswick: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 7 days.
- Prince Edward Island: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 7 days.
- Newfoundland and Labrador: The grace period for purchasing a new car insurance policy is 48 hours.
During the grace period, you cannot legally drive the car on public roads. You can only drive the car on private property or to transport it to your home or the insurance company. Therefore, it is important to get insurance coverage as soon as possible after purchasing a new car.
Do I Need Insurance Before I Buy a Used Car?
No, you do not need insurance before you buy a used car in Ontario. However, you will need to obtain insurance before you can legally drive the car on public roads.
When you purchase a used car, you will typically have a grace period of a few days to get insurance coverage. During this time, you can only drive the car on private property or to transport it to your home or the insurance company. Once you have purchased insurance, you can legally drive the car on public roads.
It is important to note that when purchasing a used car, it is recommended to obtain a vehicle history report to ensure the car is not salvaged, stolen, or has any outstanding liens. This can help avoid potential problems down the road.
My Insurance Company Isn’t Open, Can I Switch Insurance Companies?
Yes, you can switch insurance companies if your current insurance company is not open or if you are not satisfied with their services. However, it is important to consider a few factors before switching insurance companies:
- Check your policy: Review your current insurance policy to ensure that you are not violating any terms or conditions when switching insurance companies. Check if there are any penalties or fees for canceling your policy before the end of the policy term.
- Shop around: Research other insurance providers and compare their rates, coverage options, and customer reviews to find the best fit for your needs.
- Contact the new insurance company: Once you have selected a new insurance company, contact them to request a quote and obtain coverage. Provide them with accurate information about your driving history, vehicle, and any other relevant details.
- Cancel your current policy: After obtaining a new insurance policy, cancel your current policy by contacting your current insurance company and providing them with the required notice. Be sure to confirm any cancellation fees or penalties before canceling your policy.
How Do I Get A Temporary License Plate?
In Ontario, you can get a temporary license plate by following these steps:
- Purchase a vehicle: First, you need to purchase a vehicle from a dealership or a private seller.
- Obtain a temporary vehicle permit: If you are purchasing a vehicle from a dealership, they may provide you with a temporary vehicle permit that allows you to drive the vehicle for a short period of time until you can register the vehicle with the Ministry of Transportation (MTO).
- Register the vehicle with the MTO: If you are purchasing a vehicle from a private seller, you will need to register the vehicle with the MTO as soon as possible. To do this, you will need to provide proof of ownership, proof of insurance, and pay the applicable fees.
- Obtain a temporary license plate: After registering the vehicle with the MTO, you can obtain a temporary license plate. To do this, you will need to visit a ServiceOntario center with your vehicle registration papers and proof of insurance. You will be issued a temporary license plate that is valid for up to 10 days.
Where Are My License Plates Required To Be Located?
In Ontario, license plates are required to be located in specific places on the vehicle. The front plate must be attached to the front bumper of the vehicle, while the rear plate must be attached to the rear bumper.
The front license plate must be located in a visible position at the front of the vehicle, in a place where it can be easily seen and read by other drivers. It must be securely fastened to the front bumper, with the top of the plate at the same height as the bottom of the headlights.
The rear license plate must also be located in a visible position at the back of the vehicle, in a place where it can be easily seen and read by other drivers. It must be securely fastened to the rear bumper, with the bottom of the plate at least 15 centimeters (6 inches) from the ground.
About the Author: Ashley Miller
