Yes, in Ontario, you are required to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times. This proof can take the form of an insurance certificate, also known as a pink slip or insurance card. The insurance certificate verifies that you have the minimum liability insurance coverage required by law in Ontario.
If you are pulled over by the police or involved in an accident, you will be asked to provide proof of insurance. Failing to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle can result in a fine and demerit points on your driver’s license.
It’s important to keep your insurance certificate up to date and to renew it whenever your insurance coverage changes. Some insurance companies offer digital insurance certificates that you can access on your smartphone, but you should also carry a physical copy in your vehicle, in case you are unable to access the digital certificate.
Vehicle Registration
In Ontario, you are required to carry your vehicle registration in your vehicle at all times. The vehicle registration serves as proof that you are the legal owner of the vehicle and that it is registered and licensed to be driven on public roads.
If you are pulled over by the police or involved in an accident, you will be asked to provide proof of vehicle registration. Failing to carry proof of registration in your vehicle can result in a fine.
It’s important to keep your vehicle registration up to date and to renew it whenever your ownership of the vehicle changes or the registration expires. The registration should be kept in the vehicle at all times and should be readily accessible, as you may need to provide it quickly in the event of an accident or a traffic stop.
What Happens If You Can’t Produce Proof of Insurance?
If you are unable to produce proof of insurance while driving in Ontario, there can be several consequences, including:
Fines: If you are pulled over by the police and can’t produce proof of insurance, you may be fined. The fine for driving without insurance in Ontario can be up to $5,000 for a first offence.
Demerit points: Your driver’s license may also be penalized with demerit points for driving without insurance. This can impact your insurance rates and your ability to keep your driver’s license.
Vehicle impoundment: In some cases, the police may impound your vehicle if you are unable to produce proof of insurance. The vehicle will be held until you can provide proof of insurance or until the impoundment period has ended.
Difficulty obtaining insurance in the future: Driving without insurance can also make it difficult for you to obtain insurance in the future, as insurance companies may view you as a high-risk driver.
It’s important to carry proof of insurance at all times when driving and to make sure your insurance coverage remains in effect. If you are unable to produce proof of insurance, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to resolve the issue.
Proof of Insurance Going to Get Easier
Providing proof of insurance is likely about to get easier in Ontario. Steps are now in the process to allow for digital proof of insurance. It is good news for those who forget to carry their pink slip with them. Now they will be able to produce the proof of insurance through their smartphone or other devices.
The Dates on your Proof of Insurance Slip
When inspecting the proof of insurance slip the start and expiry date is on the slip. Insurance renewals mean having a new slip issued. It will show the new expiry date.
The insured should be aware of when there are requirements for a new slip.
About the Author: Ashley Miller
