How can I get high risk auto insurance in Ontario?

What “high risk” usually means for auto insurance in Ontario

Insurers and brokers call a driver “high risk” when recent events or characteristics significantly raise the likelihood of a loss. Common triggers include at-fault collisions, multiple traffic convictions, licence suspensions or reinstatements, a long driving gap, or being a new or young driver. High-risk status does not mean you cannot get insured, but it often changes how insurers underwrite your file and which markets will quote. For an overview of how regulators and insurers treat high-risk drivers in Ontario, consult guidance from the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario.

7 ways to find high risk auto insurance in Ontario

Below are seven practical channels you can use right now. Each option explains when it fits your situation, what insurers typically ask for, and the immediate next step to get quotes.

1. Ask a multi-carrier insurance broker

Why use this option: Brokers shop many insurers so you can compare markets that accept higher-risk profiles. Brokers can match a specific risk to the insurer most likely to provide reasonable terms, and they can explain non-standard wording or exclusions.

• Selection criteria: access to multiple carriers, a clear explanation of fees and policy limits, and prompt turnaround for quotes.
• What to expect on cost: premiums will be higher than standard policies, but brokers often find competitive options and bundle discounts that reduce overall cost.
• Next step: request a broker quote. For a local option that serves Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area, review Chase Insurance Brokers’ auto insurance service page.

2. Approach specialty or non-standard insurers

Why use this option: Specialty carriers underwrite higher-risk drivers directly and offer non-standard policies designed for people with serious convictions or frequent claims. These insurers often accept higher risk but with restrictive terms or higher deductibles.

• Selection criteria: check the insurer’s appetite for recent convictions, read policy exclusions, and confirm whether the carrier reports driving history to provincial databases.
• What to expect on cost: higher premiums and possible restrictions such as limited coverages for certain drivers or cars.
• Next step: ask a broker to search specialty markets if direct comparison tools do not list non-standard carriers.

3. Use temporary or short-term policies

Why use this option: If you need immediate legal proof of insurance after buying a vehicle, or while you arrange longer term coverage, a short-term policy can bridge the gap. These policies can be issued quickly and often work while you shop for better long-term terms.

• Selection criteria: confirm start and end dates, whether there is a cancellation penalty, and whether the short-term policy affects future underwriting.
• What to expect on cost: short-term coverage can be expensive per day but is useful when you must drive immediately.
• Next step: request an urgent quote from a broker or direct writer and explain your timeline for long-term coverage.

4. Compare online marketplaces with specialist follow up

Why use this option: Marketplaces and comparison sites provide a quick snapshot of available rates from mainstream insurers. They are efficient for drivers whose risk profile is borderline, but they may not include many specialty or non-standard carriers.

• Selection criteria: verify which insurers are included, whether quotes are real-time and binding, and whether the marketplace shares information with specialty markets.
• What to expect on cost: you will see competitive offers from standard markets if your record is not severely impaired.
• Next step: use a marketplace to gather baseline quotes, then ask a broker to pursue markets not listed on the platform. For a Canadian comparison perspective, refer to independent consumer resources on high-risk car insurance.

5. Consider usage-based or telematics programs

Why use this option: If higher premiums reflect a lack of recent driving data or specific risk factors, some insurers offer pay-per-kilometre or telematics programs that measure actual driving. Safe behaviour recorded by the device can earn discounts over time.

• Selection criteria: understand device installation, data privacy, the trial period, and how discounts are applied.
• What to expect on cost: initial premiums may be lower for low-mileage drivers and can improve if your driving is safe during the monitoring period.
• Next step: ask a broker to identify insurers that offer telematics for high-risk drivers and compare the contractual details carefully.

6. Look for non-owner or limited-use policies

Why use this option: If you do not own a car but occasionally drive, a non-owner policy protects you while driving vehicles owned by others. Limited-use or commuter-only policies restrict coverage to certain uses and can reduce premiums if you qualify.

• Selection criteria: confirm whether the policy covers liability only, if it includes medical or uninsured motorist protection, and how it interacts with the vehicle owner’s policy.
• What to expect on cost: typically cheaper than full comprehensive coverage but less protective in some loss scenarios.
• Next step: speak with a broker to see whether a non-owner or restricted policy fits your situation while you repair your driving record.

7. Negotiate through a local broker and follow a rehabilitation plan

Why use this option: If high-risk status stems from recent incidents, a broker can outline a practical rehabilitation plan and negotiate terms with carriers that look favourably on drivers who demonstrate corrective action.

• Selection criteria: broker experience with high-risk cases, willingness to explain conditional offers, and clear steps toward improved underwriting.
• What to expect on cost: insurers may offer conditional renewal with staged rate improvements if you complete approved courses or remain claim free.
• Next step: document corrective actions, take recommended courses, and ask your broker to resubmit to carriers after a defined incident-free period.

How to compare high risk auto insurance quotes: decision criteria that matter

When comparing quotes do not focus on price alone. Use these measurable criteria to choose the best offer for your needs.

• Premium and payment terms: annual cost, instalment fees, and any upfront deposit.
• Coverages included: liability limits, accident benefits, comprehensive and collision, and any optional endorsements.
• Deductibles and exclusion clauses: higher deductibles lower premiums but increase out-of-pocket costs after a claim.
• Insurer appetite and stability: whether the insurer commonly writes high-risk drivers and the financial strength of the carrier.
• Policy cancellation and non-renewal terms: understand how claims or late payments affect future coverage.
• Broker service and advocacy: speed of response, claims support, and clarity about fees.

Quick checklist to use on each quote: price, coverages, deductible, any exclusions for your incidents, insurer name, and broker contact. Ask the broker to provide a written comparison so you can review offers side-by-side.

What documents and information insurers and brokers will ask for

Having these items ready will speed quoting and improve accuracy.

• Driver licence number and full driving history dates for any tickets or suspensions.
• Vehicle details: make, model, year, VIN, typical use and annual kilometres.
• Previous insurance policy details and cancellation history.
• Accident dates, descriptions, and police reports if available.
• Proof of residence and any cohabiting drivers to be listed on the policy.

Providing accurate incident dates and documentation avoids surprises when the insurer verifies your history.

Short-term fixes and long-term steps to lower premiums or regain standard status

Short-term adjustments can reduce immediate cost while long-term changes can return you to standard rates over time. Regulators note that insurers consider recent experience and risk factors when setting rates, so time and behaviour matter.

• Short-term: raise deductibles, remove optional coverages you do not need temporarily, add an experienced, low-risk driver to the policy, or buy a cheaper vehicle with lower claim exposure.
• Medium-term: switch to usage-based programs if eligible, maintain continuous coverage without lapses, and avoid additional violations.
• Long-term: complete approved safe driving courses, remain claim free for an extended period, and work with your broker to re-shop the file after improvement.

Local next steps: getting quotes quickly from a Whitby and GTA broker

A local broker can combine convenience with market access. Chase Insurance Brokers operates across Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area and partners with insurers such as Aviva, Intact, Economical, Echelon, Jevco, and Premier to source competitive options. For immediate action you can request a quote via the Chase auto insurance service page or review policy details on the Chase website.

• Fastest route: complete an online quote form on the Chase auto insurance page to start multiple carrier searches immediately.
• If you prefer phone or in-person: call to schedule a meeting during extended hours or visit the Whitby office at 400 Dundas St E to review options face to face.
• Bring the documents listed above to the appointment or upload them with your online quote to speed the process.

Frequently asked questions

Am I considered a high-risk driver in Ontario and how can I check my status?

Your insurer determines risk based on your driving record and recent incidents. Request your driving record from the provincial licensing authority and discuss it with a broker who will interpret how insurers typically view specific incidents. For regulatory context on high-risk drivers, consult the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario.

How much more does high risk auto insurance usually cost in Ontario?

There is no single answer because premiums depend on the insurer, the severity and recency of incidents, the vehicle, and your province. Expect materially higher premiums than standard rates until you complete a period without claims or convictions. A broker can provide specific comparisons across carriers based on your exact record.

Can I get immediate coverage after a licence suspension or serious ticket?

Yes, in many cases you can obtain temporary or non-standard coverage quickly, but policy terms and pricing will reflect the recent event. Use a broker to secure short-term proof of insurance while you arrange a longer-term policy and rehabilitation plan.

How long does it take to move back to standard rates and what helps speed that up?

Timeframes vary. Insurers typically look for an extended period without incidents, often several years for major convictions. Completing approved defensive driving courses, maintaining continuous insurance, and avoiding new violations help your case. Ask your broker to resubmit your file to carriers after you meet improvement milestones.

Get an auto insurance quote to start comparing options that fit your situation and timeline.

Ready to get started? Request a quote or schedule a consultation with Chase Insurance Brokers Ltd. via their auto insurance page?