Jamie MacDonald
2026-05-07 14:59:32
★★★★★
Dylan Smith was a fantastic rep! Enjoyed our conversations and he was incredibly helpful and quick to get my policy replaced with a new one. Thank you.
Ottawa car insurance
Looking for a better rate on car insurance in Ottawa? ThinkInsure helps drivers in the nation's capital compare car insurance quotes from top insurers in minutes, online or by phone.
For a large city, Ottawa has some of the cheapest car insurance rates in Ontario (averaging $1,886 per year). This is about $575 less per year than the provincial average.
Rates increased 7.49% year-over-year. Even so, Ottawa still offers more affordable car insurance premiums than other major cities. Why? Auto insurance is about risk, and Ottawa has fewer accidents and claims.
We know drivers want to save as much as possible on their car insurance. With ThinkInsure, you can compare quotes from Ottawa's top car insurance companies and find the lowest rate. You'll get personalized coverage designed just for you for a great price.
Top things to know about Ottawa car insurance
- The average cost of car insurance in Ottawa is $1,886 annually or $157 per month.
- Ottawa is the lowest for auto insurance compared to all major cities in the province.
- Drivers in Ottawa pay $575 less per year than the provincial average of $2,461.
- Car insurance rates are typically the lowest in Rockcliffe ($1,362) or Cumberland ($1,565).
- The most expensive neighbourhood for insurance is Manotick ($2,168).
Current rate data reflects a rolling 12-month average of ThinkInsure quote submissions as of May 2026.*** See our methodology.
$1,886/yr
is the average premium in Ottawa
K1M & K4C
postal codes have the cheapest rates
16% less
in auto premiums for mature 50+ drivers
Lower rates in Ottawa
vs. all major Ontario cities
What is the average cost of car insurance in Ottawa?
Car insurance in Ottawa averages about $1,886 per year, roughly $157 per month, based on ThinkInsure quote data as of May 2026. That is among the lowest of any major Ontario city, about $575 below the provincial average of $2,461. Your own rate still depends on your postal code, vehicle, age, and driving record.
Rates are more than $500 per year, cheaper than car insurance in Toronto, which is $2,483. The savings are similar to those in other major cities, such as Mississauga ($2,717), Brampton ($3,325), Hamilton ($2,588), and London ($2,267).
Here are some reasons why car insurance is less in Ottawa:
- Fewer people: Unlike the GTA, Ottawa has a lower population density. Fewer people usually means fewer cars squeezed into the same space.
- Less gridlock: Because there’s less traffic congestion, you’re not spending half your day in bumper-to-bumper traffic. That significantly lowers the chance of those annoying "stop-and-go" fender benders.
- The math of risk: Fewer cars and clearer roads lead to fewer accidents. Fewer accidents lead to fewer insurance claims, and when the insurance companies pay out less, they can afford to charge you less.
In short: Ottawa is just a statistically safer place to be behind the wheel, and your bank account gets to reap the rewards.
Average premiums timeframe for Ottawa residents
Here’s how different time frames breakdown Ottawa auto insurance premiums:
- Annually: $1,886
- Semi-annually: $943
- Quarterly: $472
- Monthly: $157
- Weekly: $36.27
- Daily: $5.17
Current rate data reflects a rolling 12-month average of ThinkInsure quote submissions as of May 2026.*** See our methodology.
How to compare car insurance quotes in Ottawa
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Recent Ottawa auto insurance quotes
2026 Ontario auto insurance reform changes
Ontario's auto insurance rules are shifting on July 1, 2026, giving drivers across the province more control over their coverage and premiums.
Key updates for Ottawa drivers
- New optional benefits: Several accident benefits that were once automatic including income replacement, caregiver, and housekeeping benefits are becoming optional under new provincial reforms.
- What stays mandatory: Medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits remain included on every Ontario policy.
- Renewals: Your policy automatically renews with the same coverage you have today unless you choose to opt out or change benefits.
- New policies: Optional benefits are not included by default as of July 1, 2026 so you'll need to add them to stay fully covered.
- Trade-off to consider: Opting out may lower your premium slightly, but it can mean losing access to significant financial protection if you're injured.
For the full breakdown of what's changing, who's covered, and how to decide what's right for you, see our Ontario auto insurance reforms guide.
Auto insurance rates in Ottawa compared to local cities nearby
Ottawa is one of the most affordable big cities for car insurance in the province. However, it’s still higher compared to smaller towns and cities in the region.
Where you live within Eastern Ontario can affect your annual payment by hundreds of dollars.
Hawkesbury and Perth are among the most affordable on this list, coming in at several hundred dollars less per year.
| City/Region | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Ottawa | $1,886 |
| Bancroft | $2,373 |
| Cornwall | $1,944 |
| Pembroke | $1,835 |
| Kingston | $1,548 |
| Brockville | $1,590 |
| Perth | $1,318 |
| Hawkesbury | $1,316 |
| Smiths Falls | $1,688 |
What areas in Ottawa have the lowest car insurance rates?
The cheapest car insurance in Ottawa is in Rockcliffe (K1M), averaging about $1,362 per year, with Cumberland (K4C) and Greenly (K4P) close behind. The most expensive area is Manotick (K4M) at about $2,168. The gap across Ottawa postal codes is more than $800 a year.
Where you live within a city can affect the cost of your insurance. The difference between postal codes (FSA) in Ottawa could be hundreds of dollars per year. It's something to consider if you are planning on moving.
Below is an example of how rates vary throughout the city:
| Area in City of Ottawa | Postal Code (FSA) | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Gloucester | K1B | K1T | K1X | $2,061 |
| Downtown Ottawa | K1G, K1K, K1S, K2C, K1J, K1H, K1V, K1A, K1N, K1P, K1R, K1Y, K1Z, K2A, K2B, K2P | $1,964 |
| Manotick | K4M | $2,168 |
| Nepean | K0A, K2G, K2H, K2J, K2R, K2E | $2,013 |
| Vanier | K1L | $1,846 |
| Barrhaven | K2J | $2,062 |
| Kanata | K2K, K2L, K2M , K2T, K2V, K2W | $2,125 |
| Orleans | K4A, K1W, K1E, K1C | $2,089 |
| Stittsville | K2S | $1,948 |
| Rockcliffe | K1M | $1,362 |
| Cumberland | K4C | $1,565 |
| Greenly | K4P | $1,662 |
Ottawa car insurance rate data by driver profile
The cost of your car insurance is primarily determined by your driver profile. This profile, which reflects your risk level, is created based on your demographics, the type of vehicle you drive, and your driving history. This report uses ThinkInsure quote data to show how age, driving record, marital status, and vehicle brand affect premiums in Ottawa.
While Ottawa remains one of the most affordable major markets in Ontario, the city is experiencing a notable upward trend.
In 2025, the average Ottawa premium rose to $1,836, up 7.49% year over year. This shift is driven by broader inflationary pressures, including rising repair costs for high-tech vehicles and healthcare expenses.
However, the data reveals that individual driver profiles, specifically age, driving history, and vehicle choice, remain the most significant factors in determining actual costs.
Key findings
- Market position: Ottawa’s average premium of $1,886 (as of May 2026) is approximately $575 less than the Ontario provincial average, maintaining its status as a lower-risk region compared to the GTA.
- The age gap: Age affects rates, though the spread is narrower than in many Ontario cities.
- Young drivers under 25 pay about $1,967, roughly 4% above the city average.
- Mature 50+ drivers enjoy the lowest rates at about $1,581, saving about 16% compared to the average.
- Demographic deviations:
- Gender: Men in Ottawa pay an average of $1,947, which is about $228 more per year than female drivers ($1,719).
- Marital Status: Married drivers save roughly $168 annually compared to their single counterparts.
- The Cost of Risk: A clean driving record is the most effective way to control costs.
- A single ticket spikes rates by about 18%.
- At-fault accidents carry a heavy penalty, increasing premiums by about 54%.
- Policy cancellations are the most damaging, leading to about a 56% increase and often pushing drivers into the high-risk market.
- Vehicle impact:
- Luxury & tech: Tesla owners face the highest premiums in the city at about $3,273, followed by Kia and Lexus.
- Affordability leaders: Brands like Polestar ($1,178) and Acura ($1,274) remain the most budget-friendly options, with premiums significantly below the city average.
- Recent volatility: While 2025 saw a 7.49% hike, this follows a slight dip in 2024 ($1,708), suggesting that after a period of post-pandemic stability, rates are returning to a more aggressive growth trajectory.
How much do car insurance rates change in Ottawa by year?
Ottawa car insurance rose about 7.5% from 2024 to 2025, with the calendar-year average reaching $1,836. Even so, Ottawa stays well below the provincial average. Premiums have been fairly stable since 2019, and the current rolling 12-month average is about $1,886 per year.
Car insurance rates in Ottawa are increasing, but they are still well below the provincial average ($2,461). Average premiums increased from $1,708 in 2024 to $1,836 in 2025. This is a 7.49% year-over-year increase.
Rates change frequently based on data insurers collect on claims, repair costs, accidents, and other factors. They also change based on your driving record and if you qualify for additional discounts.
| Year | Premiums |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $1,836 |
| 2024 | $1,708 |
| 2023 | $1,770 |
| 2022 | $1,794 |
| 2021 | $1,710 |
| 2020 | $1,704 |
| 2019 | $1,663 |
Estimated premiums from 2019-2025. ** See our methodology.
How much does car insurance cost for Ottawa drivers based on age?
Age affects Ottawa car insurance, though less sharply than in many Ontario cities. Mature drivers aged 50 and over pay about 16% less than the city average, around $1,581 per year. Drivers under 25 pay only about 4% more (about $1,967), and middle-aged drivers about 3% more.
Age and experience are important to insurers. More experienced drivers are viewed as less risky. So, mature drivers typically pay less than younger drivers:
- Mature drivers pay about 16% less than the average premiums.
- Young drivers pay about 4% more. They have a great risk of filing a claim
- Middle-aged drivers pay about 3% more than the city average.
In Ottawa, the age gap is narrower than in many cities. Mature drivers pay about $305 less than the city average, while drivers under 25 pay only about $81 more.
| Driver type | Premium | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| All drivers | $1,886 | $157 | NA |
| Young drivers (25 and under) | $1,967 | $164 | 4.29% |
| Middle age (25 - 50) | $1,935 | $161 | 2.60% |
| Mature/senior drivers (50+) | $1,581 | $132 | -16.17% |
Current rate data reflects a rolling 12-month average of ThinkInsure quote submissions as of May 2026.*** See our methodology.
What demographic factors affect car insurance rates in Ottawa?
Gender and marital status both affect Ottawa car insurance. Male drivers average about $1,947 per year and female drivers about $1,719, while single drivers ($1,972) pay more than married drivers ($1,804). These differences are smaller than the effect of age or driving record.
Insurers use demographic information to assess potential risk. In Ottawa, there is a sizeable difference in how much men pay compared to women. Male drivers pay $228 more per year than women on average.
Single people pay more than married individuals. Single drivers pay $168 more per year than married people.
| Demographics | Premium | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male | $1,947 | $162 | 3.23% |
| Female | $1,719 | $143 | -8.85% |
| Married | $1,804 | $150 | -4.35% |
| Single | $1,972 | $164 | 4.56% |
Current rate data reflects a rolling 12-month average of ThinkInsure quote submissions as of May 2026.*** See our methodology.
How much does your driving record affect Ottawa car insurance premiums?
Tickets and accidents raise Ottawa car insurance sharply. One ticket adds about 18% to your premium, and a single at-fault accident about 54%, against a clean-record average near $1,886 per year. A policy cancellation adds about 56% and a licence suspension about 25% within three years.
A clean driving record is a must to keep insurance costs down. It is your best defence against increasing rates. Even one ticket or accident can spike your costs:
- One ticket can increase your rates by over 17%.
- One accident can increase your rates by more than 50%.
- Policy cancellations or license suspensions can result in significant rate increase
A second ticket, accident, or payment issue could double or even triple your premiums and potentially lead to you requiring high-risk coverage.
| Driving record | Premium | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clean record | $1,886 | $157 | 0.00% |
| 1 ticket in past 3 years | $2,224 | $185 | 17.92% |
| 1 accident in 3 years | $2,900 | $242 | 53.77% |
| 1 cancellation in 3 years | $2,935 | $245 | 55.62% |
| 1 suspension in 3 years | $2,356 | $196 | 24.92% |
Current rate data reflects a rolling 12-month average of ThinkInsure quote submissions as of May 2026.*** See our methodology.
What vehicle brands have the cheapest insurance in Ottawa?
The cheapest vehicle brands to insure in Ottawa are Polestar (about $1,178 per year), Acura ($1,274), and Chevrolet ($1,353). The most expensive include Tesla ($3,273), Kia ($2,703), and BMW ($2,650). A safer, lower-cost vehicle can save you several hundred dollars a year.
| Vehicle Make | Average Premium | Monthly payment |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla | $3,273 | $273 |
| Kia | $2,703 | $225 |
| Lexus | $2,658 | $222 |
| BMW | $2,650 | $221 |
| Ford | $2,317 | $193 |
| Infiniti | $2,314 | $193 |
| Jeep | $2,274 | $190 |
| Mazda | $2,250 | $188 |
| Mercedes-Benz | $2,099 | $175 |
| Genesis | $2,058 | $172 |
| GMC | $2,010 | $168 |
| Dodge/Ram | $1,948 | $162 |
| Nissan | $1,912 | $159 |
| Audi | $1,906 | $159 |
| Honda | $1,893 | $158 |
| Hyundai | $1,728 | $144 |
| Cadillac | $1,684 | $140 |
| Toyota | $1,610 | $134 |
| Subaru | $1,607 | $134 |
| Chevrolet | $1,353 | $113 |
| Acura | $1,274 | $106 |
| Polestar | $1,178 | $98 |
Current rate data reflects a rolling 12-month average of ThinkInsure quote submissions as of May 2026.*** See our methodology.
Why is auto insurance cheaper in Ottawa compared to other cities?
Ottawa has some of Ontario's lowest car insurance rates, averaging about $1,886 per year, roughly $575 below the provincial average. Insurers treat the city as lower risk: fewer collisions and claims, declining auto theft (down about 20% in 2024), and less traffic congestion than the GTA all help keep premiums down.
Ottawa is the second-largest city in Ontario by population. Based on our customer quote data, it has the most affordable auto insurance rates vs. other large cities in the province.
Ottawa has lower car insurance rates because companies consider it to be a less risky area. This means claims costs are lower than in other areas of the province. There are fewer instances of fraud, theft, and collisions, which helps to keep overall costs low.
Here’s a look at Ottawa driving data:
- Collisions: According to Ottawa Police, there were 19,777 collisions in 2024. This is lower compared to other cities of similar size.
- Auto theft declining: Auto theft was down 20% in 2024. As reported by CBC News Ottawa, there were 1,519 thefts. Toyota (410), Honda (119), and Ford (117) were the biggest targeted brands. Gloucester-Southgate (149) and Bay (102) were the neighbourhoods with the highest number of thefts.
- Fewer commuters and less traffic: Ottawa has fewer daily commuters compared to cities in the GTA. According to 2021 Census Data, there are 190,190 drivers on the road. This accounts for 69% of commuters, which is a lower percentage than other large cities.
ThinkInsure tip: Compare rates annually to maximize savings
A lot can change in a year, including how much you pay for auto insurance. Compare quotes each year to ensure you get the lowest possible rates and maximize your savings.
How does car insurance work in Ottawa?
The rules for car insurance in Ottawa are the same as in the rest of the province. The provincial government sets them, and the industry is regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO).
A summary of Ottawa car insurance laws
- Car insurance is mandatory.
- All drivers must have a minimum of $200,000 in third-party liability coverage.
- Fines for driving without insurance start at $5,000 for the first offence and can reach $50,000.
- It's recommended to have coverage beyond the minimum required to protect your finances.
- A no-fault system applies. This means that if you are involved in an accident, you will deal directly with your car insurance company.
- You purchase car insurance coverage through private insurance companies in Ottawa. Many people use a broker to compare quotes from multiple companies.
Mandatory and optional auto insurance coverage in Ottawa
In Ontario all drivers must have a minimum amount of coverage. Your Ottawa policy will automatically include the basic coverage. However, you can add additional coverage to personalize your plan and have more protection.
Optional coverage and endorsements may vary by insurance company. It's important to ensure you are clear about what the company offers before purchasing your policy. If you have any questions about how coverage works, our licensed advisors are happy to help.
Required minimum auto coverage
| Mandatory coverage | Included in all auto insurance policies | Policy limits |
|---|---|---|
| Third-party liability (TPL) | Covers liability claims against you from an at-fault accident. Basic plans have $200,000 in TPL coverage. | Coverage can be increased up to $2 million. |
| Accident benefits (AB) |
Covers the driver and passengers if injured in an accident, including costs above what OHIP covers. Includes medical, rehabilitation, attendant care, caregiver, funeral, disability income, death benefits, and income replacement. Limits apply and can be increased.
NOTE: As of July 1, 2026, several accident benefits become optional under the Ontario government's reforms outlined in the 2024 Ontario Budget. Medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care remain mandatory. Other benefits (including income replacement and caregiver benefits) become opt-in. See our Ontario auto insurance reforms guide for the full breakdown. |
Increase standard limits for both non-catastrophic ($130,000) and catastrophic ($2 million) injuries. |
| Uninsured motorist |
Also known as uninsured automobile coverage. It covers you if you are
injured by an uninsured driver or in a hit-and-run.
Standard coverage is $200,000. |
Additional coverage up to $1 million. |
Optional coverage to enhance your policy
| Optional insurance coverage | Coverage can be added to your policy | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Collision coverage | Protection if you are involved in an accident with another vehicle or an object (e.g., a tree, street sign, or light post). |
|
| Comprehensive coverage | This protects you from loss or damage from non-driving events. Coverage includes theft, vandalism, falling objects, and damage from the weather (wind, hail, flooding). |
|
| All perils | This combines collision and comprehensive. You have protection for all perils unless they are expressly excluded. | |
| Specified perils | Your policy protects all the perils listed. Anything listed is covered. This is more affordable than comprehensive while still providing most of the protection. | |
| Direct compensation property damage (DCPD) | DCPD covers damage for accidents when you are not at fault. It also covers loss of use. This is part of the no-fault system. As of January 1, 2024, drivers have the ability to opt out of this coverage using OPCF 49. |
|
| Emergency roadside assistance | Get roadside assistance when you need it. Many insurers offer this as part of their policy or as an add-on. Some services include towing, battery boost, flat tire, and more. |
Additional coverage options
| Endorsements | Coverage to customize your policy | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Agreed value of automobiles (OPCF 19A) | Insurers agree to pay a specific amount if your vehicle is a total loss. | |
| Transportation replacement (OPCF 20) | Covers rental car insurance and transportation if your vehicle was stolen or while getting repaired. |
|
| Rental car coverage (OPCF 27) | Coverage for when you drive vehicles that are not your own, such as a rental car. |
|
| Accident forgiveness (OPCF 39) | Protects your driving record after your first at-fault accident. Your first collision will not impact your premiums. |
|
| Waiver of depreciation (OPCF 43) | Insurers cannot deduct depreciation from your vehicle's value when making a claim. |
|
| Family protection (OPCF 44R) | Covers you or your family if you are injured, even if you're not in the car when the accident happens. |
|
| Agreement Not to Recover for Loss or Damage from an Automobile Collision (OPCF 49) | Removes DCPD coverage from your policy. |
Car insurance discounts in Ottawa
Insurers offer a wide range of discounts. Ask about the discounts you may qualify for to lower your auto premiums in Ottawa:
Winter tires
Install winter tires on your vehicle.
Save up to 5%
Multiple vehicles
Insure all your vehicles with the same insurer.
Save up to 10%
Private parking
Park in your private garage or driveway.
Save up to 8%
Usage based insurance
Get rewarded for good your driving habits.
Save up to 30%
Driver training
Complete an approved driver education program.
Save up to 10%
Electric or hybrid
Drive an eco-friendly vehicle and save more.
Save up to 10%
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How to get cheap car insurance in Ottawa
What are the best ways for you to get the cheapest car insurance in Ottawa? Here is advice on when you should get a quote and how you can lower your payments.
1) Compare quotes when changing vehicles
If you are buying a new vehicle or upgrading your main one, getting quotes can help you save money. The vehicle you drive has a direct impact on your insurance.
2) Shop at renewal time
Renewal time is your opportunity to lower your costs. A lot can change since your last renewal. Update your information to view the available savings.
3) Check rates when changing personal information
Your personal information can affect your premiums. Changing your address, passing an age threshold, and updating other personal information can impact how much you pay.
4) Policy coverage changes
Your policy type, coverage limits, number of vehicles, and drivers insured affect your price. When making a change, always explore your options to ensure you are getting a good price.
5) Bundle and save more
Why have separate policies for your car and home coverage when you can combine them with the same company? Bundle and you get a discount. Combine your policies and save up to 20%.
6) Install an anti-theft device
Automobile theft and vehicle break-ins increase the cost of insurance. Installing an anti-theft device will reduce the odds of your vehicle being stolen. It will also qualify you for a discount with most providers.
7) Increase your deductible
Increasing your car insurance deductible will help lower your costs. The more you increase your deductible, the less your premium will be.
8) Take advantage of discounts
There are many different types of insurance discounts to help lower your premium. Speak with our advisors to help you find the most discounts for your situation.
9) Check premiums every year
The most effective way to find a better rate is to shop around. Reviewing quotes from multiple insurers annually ensures you are maximizing savings. Driving habits, your driving record, and other things can change, which can affect your payments.
What factors affect car insurance rates in Ottawa?
Ottawa car insurance depends most on your vehicle, age, driving record, and where you live. Because Ottawa sees relatively few collisions and claims, its rates sit below the provincial average, but a sports car, a young driver, or an at-fault accident can still push an individual premium above the city's $1,886 average.
Many factors can affect your auto insurance quote in Ottawa. The main things to consider are:
Vehicle type
The type of car you drive will impact your insurance. If you drive an expensive sports car, it will cost more to insure than a family sedan. Having a vehicle with a good safety rating will help keep your costs down.
Your age
Once you turn 25, payments will drop. Insurers favour mature and more experienced drivers and reward them with savings. Why? They are less likely to cause an accident or file a claim.
Driving history
Your driving record is one of the main factors used by an insurance company to determine rates. You can expect to pay more once you start to have tickets and accidents on your record.
Location
The postal code where you live is used when calculating your policy costs. Rates can vary based on accidents and theft in different areas of the city. For example, you live in a quiet neighbourhood with a low crime rate. You’ll pay less than an individual who lives in an area with high crime rates because the risk is greater.
How you use your vehicle
This is an important consideration when an insurance company calculates your premium. You will pay more for your insurance if you use your vehicle for commuting or work. Why? You’ll be on the road longer and more often than the average driver.
Limits and coverage
Deductible limits and types of coverage included in your policy affect the total cost. Prices go up when you add more coverage. Lowering your deductible will lower your payments.
Discounts
The number of discounts applied to your plan will affect your payments. Tell your insurance company about discounts you qualify for based on your age, driving record, experience, and more.
Why choose ThinkInsure for your Ottawa car insurance?
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Get your Ottawa car insurance questions answered
Ottawa has lower car insurance rates because companies consider it to be less risky. This means claims costs are lower than in other areas in the province. There are fewer instances of fraud and theft. Fewer instances of things like collisions and theft help to keep overall costs down.
Yes, you can get cheap car insurance in Ottawa with ThinkInsure. We are partners with the leading insurance companies in Canada. You can compare quotes from multiple insurers, allowing you to find the lowest available price. As a licensed Ottawa insurance broker we will quickly search for the lowest quotes for you. You'll receive additional guidance to help you save as much as possible. We'll make sure you have the best coverage at the lowest rates. You can save up to 25% by combining your auto and home insurance in Ottawa.
Yes. Car insurance rates change frequently. Rate increases can happen multiple times per year, often quarterly. But your premiums will not increase until you make changes to your coverage or renew your policy. This is why getting a quote each time your policy is up for renewal is important. A lot can happen in a year, including how much you pay for insurance.
Ottawa is a top destination for newcomers and immigrants to Canada. Once you arrive, you'll want to drive. You'll need a valid licence and insurance. You'll need to get a Canadian driver's licence.
You may be able to exchange it depending on your country of origin. Or, you'll have to complete a knowledge and road test. Once you get a licence, you can start to compare prices and coverage options.
If you have driving experience, ensure you have proof of insurance from your home country. This can help you save money.
Collisions and car insurance claims are part of driving. There are thousands of accidents on Ottawa roads each year. Hopefully, you have not had to report an accident or file a claim. However, even if you haven't, it's essential always to be prepared.
Safety is always the top priority. So, if you're involved in an accident, make sure everyone is okay. Call for medical assistance if required. Move your vehicle safely to the side of the road if possible.
Once you've done this, follow these steps:
- Exchange insurance and licence information with the other driver.
- Take pictures and video of the accident scene.
- Make notes about the events leading up to the accident. Note weather and road conditions.
- Call the police if the damage is more than $20 or if a crime was committed.
- Take your vehicle to the accident reporting centre. Call a tow truck if your vehicle is not drivable.
- Call your insurance company once you've filed a police report.
- Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process.
The city is known for its great communities, large highways, and traffic congestion. But it is one of the safest places to drive in all of Canada. In fact, fatalities and injuries caused by collisions have dropped by more than 50% over the past 3 decades. But one mistake could cause a spike in your auto insurance rates.
Here are some tips to ensure you don’t have to file a claim and help you drive safely:
- Watch out for wildlife: When driving on the outskirts of town or on one-lane roads, watch out for deer and other wildlife. It's estimated that more than 10 collisions with wildlife occur annually.
- Winter tires: Installing winter tires will qualify you for savings. Plus, you have improved traction, which makes it safer during wintery weather.
- Slow down: Speeding is a leading cause of accidents, and speeding tickets can negatively impact car insurance rates. It's particularly important to slow down during the winter. Be careful of snowbanks and slick roads.
- Tourists: Watch out for drivers and pedestrians visiting. There are lots of them, especially near popular attractions. Tourists can be less predictable than locals in how they drive.
- Intersections: In the city, intersections are a common location for collisions. Slow down, be aware of your surroundings, and be ready to make a sudden stop.
- Downtown driving: There are right-turn restrictions and lots of one-way streets to navigate. Always pay attention to the signage to avoid confusion.
- Waterways and bridges: Two rivers and the canal run through the city. Traffic can build because of the limited bridges to cross. Plan your route accordingly to avoid congestion in these areas.
Our customer reviews for car insurance in Ottawa
KCAP KCAP
2026-05-07 14:46:38
★★★★★
Big shout out to Darryl for helping me out and turning a sour experience to a splendid one Shubham left me in the wind for a couple days even after I had a his team member reach out to him and left a voicemail . Called back the next day and Darrly handle everything on the spot so thank you Darryl
Zhiqing Xu
2026-04-30 20:06:56
★★★★★
Had a great experience with Sohel Rahman. The whole process is easy and clear without any unnecessary back and forth. Got the insurance exactly as I wanted in 1 day. Highly recommended!
Chris Arsenault
2026-04-21 20:09:51
★★★★★
Great experience with Todd Allen at ThinkInsure. Very professional and helpful. Thanks Todd!
Russell Turner
2026-04-21 14:26:53
★★★★★
Gabe was great and looked after my issue
Sandy Kerr
2026-04-19 13:47:28
★★★★★
I would like to recognize our Broker, Jeff Plesman to thank him for always providing us with outstanding and professional customer service. Thank you so much Jeff, we appreciate you. ;-)
Tony Sturino
2026-04-17 20:37:33
★★★★★
Gabe, as usual takes care of my demanding insurance issues, very professional, I like the way he calls to update me on any new features Thanks again
Anna Kacina
2026-04-16 15:29:05
★★★★★
Excellent service, great price
Talk to an advisor about your Ottawa auto insurance needs
Our licensed insurance advisors have got you covered for finding the best auto insurance rates and coverage in Ottawa. Get non-biased auto insurance advice, personalized coverage and the lowest rates.
Personalized coverage
Our advisors will ensure you have proper coverage for your unique driving needs.
Compare multiple quotes
We will instantly compare quotes and discounts from our large selection of insurance providers to find you the lowest rate. By comparing quotes, we help Ottawa drivers save an average of $489*.
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Choose the provider that offers the best coverage and rate for your needs. We often can get you insured with a new automobile policy on the same day.
Speak with an advisor today!
Call us if you have complex coverage needs, need to renew today, want to insure multiple vehicles or require high-risk car insurance in Ontario. We often can get you insured with a new automobile policy on the same day.
Get expert savings advice
Keep a clean driving record. Choose a vehicle with strong safety ratings. Consider raising your deductible if you can pay more out-of-pocket. Ask about discounts for bundling your insurance policies.
Wasim Khan
Insurance Broker (RIBO)
Want to save on your auto policy? We can help!
Monday-Friday: 8am-6pm
Best car insurance companies in Ottawa
You may be tempted to choose a local car insurance company in Ottawa to get insured. But the best car insurance companies for you could be located anywhere in the province. ThinkInsure can help you compare options from all the top companies, whether they are in Ottawa or not.
Here are some of the best insurance companies with offices in Ottawa:
- Aviva Canada: 112 Kent St, Suite 2, Tower B, Ottawa, ON K1P 5P2
- Intact: 1 St. Laurent Blvd. Unit4A, Ottawa, ON K1K 3B8
- Economical: 343 Preston St #, Ottawa, ON K1S 1N4
- Travelers Canada: 155 Queen St, Ottawa, ON K1P 6L1
Speak with our advisors about your options today. If you are considering usage-based insurance, own a classic car, or have some traffic tickets, we can help. We will find the best company and policy for you.
Methodology and sources
Disclaimer:
- Estimated car insurance rate data is from Ottawa drivers who completed an online quote on ThinkInsure.ca.
- Drivers have a G licence, standard full coverage, $1 million liability limit, $1,000 comprehensive and collision deductible, and applicable discounts.
- Premiums can vary based on your driving and insurance history.
- All personal information related to estimated quotes has been kept strictly confidential
* Based on the difference between the average lowest premium and the overall average premium in Ottawa for estimates completed from May 31, 2025, to May 31, 2026.
** Estimated premiums from 2019-2025.
*** Estimated premiums are based on data entered by drivers on ThinkInsure.ca from May 31, 2025, to May 31, 2026.
Nolan Wilson
Content Marketing Manager
Nolan is a content marketing manager and writer at ThinkInsure. He has 15+ years of experience in the insurance industry, working with brokerages and direct insurers to create compelling insurance content, specializing in auto, home, and commercial.
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