Auto Insurance

As an insurance broker, Hunt & Dopson specializes in finding and advising you on the best coverage for your car. We outline all of the mandatory and optional parts of a given policy so that you know to what degree you are covered.

We've built a reputation for client support and answering all of our clients' questions. Further, we'll explain all of the fine points in clear, straightforward language. We know most people don't have the time to wade through all of the details of their coverage. That's what we're here for. Call us anytime and we'll find what you're looking for.

Below are some general questions that people ask about Auto insurance. We invite you to read through this valuable information, but more importantly, give us a call and we'll answer any question that you may have.

How does auto insurance work?

Like any other type of insurance, automotive insurance is a form of financial protection for you and your family. The premium you pay to the insurance company ensures you'll be covered financially, should anything ever happen. Simply put, insurance is a way to share risk. When you buy insurance, you're buying financial protection and peace of mind. Your insurer uses the premiums of thousands of other vehicle owners to pay for the financial loss of those who are involved in collisions and other mishaps. Hunt & Dopson specializes in finding and advising you on the best coverage.

What is a deductible?

The deductible is what you are responsible for paying as part of the overall insured loss. Usually, the amount is $500. This means that you have to cover $500 of any repair bill and the insurance policy pays the rest. Any damage that costs less than $500 is your responsibility. There is no deductible in the case of damage incurred by fire, lightning, or theft.

What will my insurance pay for if my car is damaged in a collision?

The insurance company will pay for the repair or replacement of your vehicle, minus the deductible, in the condition it was before it was damaged. They will only cover the part of your car that was actually damaged. If you make other repairs to your vehicle not directly related to the accident, you are still required to contribute financially. During repair, the mechanic may use reconditioned or used parts. These parts must be of the same quality as the originals and must not adversely affect the operation of the vehicle. Any extra work done on the vehicle not directly related to the damage is your financial responsibility.

Can I insure my car against depreciation?

As the old adage goes, "As soon as you drive a new car off the lot, it depreciates 40%." However, you can insure a new vehicle against depreciation for the first two years of ownership. For the incredibly low annual fee of $25, you can protect the full retail value of your car and insure it against losses incurred from theft, damage and depreciation. You won't get this kind of valuable information voluntarily if you were to deal directly with with a call centre or direct writer. This is just one example of the inside edge you get with the expertise of Hunt & Dopson.

If I drive an old car, do I still need insurance?

Collision coverage is optional in Ontario. If you drive an older vehicle, you may wish to drop collision coverage to reduce your insurance premium. Most people drop collision coverage once their vehicle is 10 years old or if the vehicle value is less than $3,000. Since everybody's situation is unique, call one of our professional sales staff for your own personal evaluation.

How much liability insurance do I need?

Liability insurance protects you in the event your vehicle is involved in an "at fault" auto accident. If you caused any bodily injury, death, or property damage to anybody your liability insurance will protect you from any successful lawsuit. We now recommend at least $2,000,000 of coverage due to the increase in courts awarding victims over $1,000,000.