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April 2022
Spring is in the air – Road trip!
Ontario is a big province with lots to offer—from beautiful nature scenes to bustling city centres. Check out these Ontario road trip ideas that guarantee fun for all ages.
Read more at www.otip.com/article141.
Ontario is a big province with lots to offer—from beautiful nature scenes to bustling city centres. Check out these Ontario road trip ideas that guarantee fun for all ages.
Read more at www.otip.com/article141.
Will a speed camera ticket make my insurance rate go up?
You arrive home after a long day of work and check your mailbox. Inside, you find a ticket from a speed camera with a photo of your vehicle driving above the posted limit. Let’s address some commonly asked questions about speed camera tickets.
Read more at www.otip.com/article142.
You arrive home after a long day of work and check your mailbox. Inside, you find a ticket from a speed camera with a photo of your vehicle driving above the posted limit. Let’s address some commonly asked questions about speed camera tickets.
Read more at www.otip.com/article142.
I’m moving: what should I do about my home insurance policy?
Take a look at the moving and home insurance frequently asked questions inside so that you can look forward to making memories in your new home, confident that you have the coverage you need.
Read more at www.otip.com/article140.
Take a look at the moving and home insurance frequently asked questions inside so that you can look forward to making memories in your new home, confident that you have the coverage you need.
Read more at www.otip.com/article140.
March 2022
Before, during, and after: Driving through a Canadian blizzard
There’s no denying that Canadian winters are beautiful. But when you have to get in your car and hit the road, that picturesque snow globe we call home can start to look a little less sparkly. Take some practical precautions before, during, and after each winter drive or road trip to make sure you (and your vehicle) arrive safe and sound.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article139.
There’s no denying that Canadian winters are beautiful. But when you have to get in your car and hit the road, that picturesque snow globe we call home can start to look a little less sparkly. Take some practical precautions before, during, and after each winter drive or road trip to make sure you (and your vehicle) arrive safe and sound.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article139.
How to choose the right vehicle
When it comes to finding the right car for you, there are pros and cons to both new and used vehicles — but ultimately, your decision will likely come down to budget and your driving habits. So how do you choose the right vehicle for yourself? Consider these factors before deciding.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article138.
When it comes to finding the right car for you, there are pros and cons to both new and used vehicles — but ultimately, your decision will likely come down to budget and your driving habits. So how do you choose the right vehicle for yourself? Consider these factors before deciding.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article138.
Does my car insurance policy cover rental cars?
You’ve got the keys to your new rental car and are excited to put it in gear to officially mark the start of your vacation. But before you drive off into the sunset, ensure you have the coverage you need. We’ll walk you through each insurance option to help you find the coverage that’s right for you and your next trip.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article137.
You’ve got the keys to your new rental car and are excited to put it in gear to officially mark the start of your vacation. But before you drive off into the sunset, ensure you have the coverage you need. We’ll walk you through each insurance option to help you find the coverage that’s right for you and your next trip.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article137.
February 2022
Self-driving vehicles and the future of car insurance in Canada.
While fully automated self-driving vehicles are not yet available to the Canadian public, Ontario’s automated vehicle pilot program to test driverless vehicles on public roadways is already well underway. With the future of autonomous vehicles already here, many drivers are wondering what impact advanced vehicle technology will have on their car insurance. Here’s what you need to know.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article134
While fully automated self-driving vehicles are not yet available to the Canadian public, Ontario’s automated vehicle pilot program to test driverless vehicles on public roadways is already well underway. With the future of autonomous vehicles already here, many drivers are wondering what impact advanced vehicle technology will have on their car insurance. Here’s what you need to know.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article134
Leasing vs. buying a car: What’s best for me?
Both leasing and buying have their benefits and drawbacks, so the right choice all depends on your budget, driving needs and lifestyle. We’ve outlined some of the key factors to consider when deciding between leasing versus buying your next vehicle to help you determine which option is best for you.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article135
Both leasing and buying have their benefits and drawbacks, so the right choice all depends on your budget, driving needs and lifestyle. We’ve outlined some of the key factors to consider when deciding between leasing versus buying your next vehicle to help you determine which option is best for you.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article135
Lock it up!
Safety features are an important part of every home. Locks, specifically, are the best way to keep your home safe and secure from unwanted “guests.” Different doors require different types of locks. Let’s review some basic and high-tech models to help you decide what kind of locks fit your needs the best.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article136
Lock it up!
Safety features are an important part of every home. Locks, specifically, are the best way to keep your home safe and secure from unwanted “guests.” Different doors require different types of locks. Let’s review some basic and high-tech models to help you decide what kind of locks fit your needs the best.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article136
January 2022
Does my home insurance cover items in storage?
Whether you’re in the middle of a move, downsizing, hanging on to a loved one’s belongings, or just looking to free up some space at home, you might find yourself storing items in an offsite storage unit. Whatever the reason, the items you’ve chosen to store are likely important to you. That’s why it’s equally important to know that your precious belongings have the proper coverage to repair or replace them if they were damaged or stolen while in storage.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article133
Whether you’re in the middle of a move, downsizing, hanging on to a loved one’s belongings, or just looking to free up some space at home, you might find yourself storing items in an offsite storage unit. Whatever the reason, the items you’ve chosen to store are likely important to you. That’s why it’s equally important to know that your precious belongings have the proper coverage to repair or replace them if they were damaged or stolen while in storage.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article133
In-house auto & property claims service makes a difference for our members
There are many variables in your daily life that you may not be able to control but when the unexpected happens to you on the road or at home, know that the Curo claims team will have your back. For over 12 years, OTIP has partnered with CURO Claims Services and as a result, members like you have raved about their experience.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article132
There are many variables in your daily life that you may not be able to control but when the unexpected happens to you on the road or at home, know that the Curo claims team will have your back. For over 12 years, OTIP has partnered with CURO Claims Services and as a result, members like you have raved about their experience.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article132
Planning to rent out your basement apartment?
Renting out your basement is a great way to test the waters and make some extra money without the upfront cost of purchasing a rental property. We are here to provide you with some helpful tips that may encourage you to take on the initiative. #OTIPUpdate
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article131
Renting out your basement is a great way to test the waters and make some extra money without the upfront cost of purchasing a rental property. We are here to provide you with some helpful tips that may encourage you to take on the initiative. #OTIPUpdate
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article131
November 2021
What is usage-based insurance and is it right for you?
Usage-based insurance (UBI), also known as pay-as-you-drive insurance, has recently spiked in popularity amongst Canadian drivers who find themselves driving less since the arrival of COVID-19. More drivers are looking for a way to be rewarded for their good driving habits. Wondering if usage-based car insurance is right for you? We’ve put together a guide to help break down the FAQs of UBI programs.
Learn more at https://otipinsurance.com/article129.
Usage-based insurance (UBI), also known as pay-as-you-drive insurance, has recently spiked in popularity amongst Canadian drivers who find themselves driving less since the arrival of COVID-19. More drivers are looking for a way to be rewarded for their good driving habits. Wondering if usage-based car insurance is right for you? We’ve put together a guide to help break down the FAQs of UBI programs.
Learn more at https://otipinsurance.com/article129.
How to maintain a vehicle you don’t drive often
From decreasing your commute to putting your car in storage for the season, there are plenty of reasons why you might not be driving your vehicle as often as you used to. But don’t let it sit collecting dust — follow these steps to maintain your car and keep it ready to hit the road!
Learn more at https://otipinsurance.com/article128.
From decreasing your commute to putting your car in storage for the season, there are plenty of reasons why you might not be driving your vehicle as often as you used to. But don’t let it sit collecting dust — follow these steps to maintain your car and keep it ready to hit the road!
Learn more at https://otipinsurance.com/article128.
Home insurance 101 for homeowners and renters
The word “home” means something different to everyone. Whether home is a detached house, a duplex, a townhouse, or a condo, it’s important to ensure that your home and belongings are protected. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you determine what type of insurance policy is best suited for you and your home.
Learn more at https://otipinsurance.com/article127.
The word “home” means something different to everyone. Whether home is a detached house, a duplex, a townhouse, or a condo, it’s important to ensure that your home and belongings are protected. We’ve put together a quick guide to help you determine what type of insurance policy is best suited for you and your home.
Learn more at https://otipinsurance.com/article127.
October 2021
What’s behind the increased cost of auto insurance claims?
With the average cost of auto insurance claims on the rise, many drivers are wondering what’s behind the increase and if there’s any relief in sight. Here’s a breakdown of two key factors that are behind the rising cost of auto insurance claims in recent years.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article124.
With the average cost of auto insurance claims on the rise, many drivers are wondering what’s behind the increase and if there’s any relief in sight. Here’s a breakdown of two key factors that are behind the rising cost of auto insurance claims in recent years.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article124.
5 things you can do now to prepare your home for winter
Now that fall is officially here, many Canadians are busy enjoying all that the season has to offer. Between admiring the colour-changing leaves on a cool evening stroll and baking pies made with freshly picked apples, prepping for winter may be at the bottom of your fall to-do list. However, using the last of the year’s warmer weather to prepare your home for winter cold could spare you a lot of trouble once the weather starts to turn. Here are five things you can do in the fall to get your home ready for winter.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article126.
Now that fall is officially here, many Canadians are busy enjoying all that the season has to offer. Between admiring the colour-changing leaves on a cool evening stroll and baking pies made with freshly picked apples, prepping for winter may be at the bottom of your fall to-do list. However, using the last of the year’s warmer weather to prepare your home for winter cold could spare you a lot of trouble once the weather starts to turn. Here are five things you can do in the fall to get your home ready for winter.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article126.
Roundabouts don’t have to be scary
October usually brings images of ghosts, goblins, skeletons and other classic “spooky season” frights. If driving through a roundabout is on your list of “spooky” things, read on. While roundabouts have become increasingly popular in Canada over the years, they still make up only a small fraction of the country’s intersections and continue to leave many Canadian drivers apprehensive. But navigating a roundabout doesn’t have to be scary!
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article125
October usually brings images of ghosts, goblins, skeletons and other classic “spooky season” frights. If driving through a roundabout is on your list of “spooky” things, read on. While roundabouts have become increasingly popular in Canada over the years, they still make up only a small fraction of the country’s intersections and continue to leave many Canadian drivers apprehensive. But navigating a roundabout doesn’t have to be scary!
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article125
September 2021
Protect Yourself Against Insurance Fraud
Simply put, the impact of fraud on the car insurance industry is staggering. It’s easy to dismiss insurance fraud as something that will never impact you, but in reality, it ends up costing insurers $1.6 billion each year. These costs ultimately are paid for by the insurance company and the policyholders – many of which are completely innocent.1 Can you believe that on average, $236 of your annual car insurance premium goes towards paying for the illegal activities of fraudsters?1 Being informed and learning how to recognize fraud is one way to help reduce these costs.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article122.
Simply put, the impact of fraud on the car insurance industry is staggering. It’s easy to dismiss insurance fraud as something that will never impact you, but in reality, it ends up costing insurers $1.6 billion each year. These costs ultimately are paid for by the insurance company and the policyholders – many of which are completely innocent.1 Can you believe that on average, $236 of your annual car insurance premium goes towards paying for the illegal activities of fraudsters?1 Being informed and learning how to recognize fraud is one way to help reduce these costs.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article122.
5 Steps to Building the Perfect Backyard Oasis
Spending more time at home during the pandemic has caused many Canadians to start dreaming about backyard renovations. In 2021, Canadians are projected to spend a collective $76 billion on renovations, up from $60 billion in pre-pandemic years.1
Whether you’re adding or renovating a fence, patio, swimming pool, deck or landscaping, crafting your own personal backyard oasis can be an exciting project. Before you start, here are a few tips to keep in mind to make your project run smoothly.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article121.
Spending more time at home during the pandemic has caused many Canadians to start dreaming about backyard renovations. In 2021, Canadians are projected to spend a collective $76 billion on renovations, up from $60 billion in pre-pandemic years.1
Whether you’re adding or renovating a fence, patio, swimming pool, deck or landscaping, crafting your own personal backyard oasis can be an exciting project. Before you start, here are a few tips to keep in mind to make your project run smoothly.
Learn more at https://www.otipinsurance.com/article121.
May 2021
Protecting your privacy when using electronic pink slips
In some Canadian provinces – including Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador – drivers can now display an electronic pink slip on their smartphone when asked for proof of insurance. This provides a more convenient option over paper pink slips, which can be easy to lose and difficult to replace. However, many drivers are wondering what their rights and responsibilities are when handing over their phone to a police officer – and how they can protect their privacy while obeying the law.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article110.
In some Canadian provinces – including Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador – drivers can now display an electronic pink slip on their smartphone when asked for proof of insurance. This provides a more convenient option over paper pink slips, which can be easy to lose and difficult to replace. However, many drivers are wondering what their rights and responsibilities are when handing over their phone to a police officer – and how they can protect their privacy while obeying the law.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article110.
New driver in the house? Discover how you can save money on insurance premiums!
It’s no secret that new drivers pay higher car insurance premiums, as they have less experience behind the wheel and the need to build up a safe driving record. This inexperience contributes to the overrepresentation of teenage drivers in car accidents — although young Canadians represent 13% of the licensed driving population, they account for 20% of motor vehicle deaths and injuries.1 However, there are ways to save on car insurance for a new driver.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article111.
It’s no secret that new drivers pay higher car insurance premiums, as they have less experience behind the wheel and the need to build up a safe driving record. This inexperience contributes to the overrepresentation of teenage drivers in car accidents — although young Canadians represent 13% of the licensed driving population, they account for 20% of motor vehicle deaths and injuries.1 However, there are ways to save on car insurance for a new driver.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article111.
April 2021
Staycation ideas for April break 2021
With continued restrictions in place on travel and social gatherings, many Canadians are looking for ways to make the most of their April break while keeping themselves and their communities safe. We’ve rounded up a list of eight staycation ideas that you can safely do together at home this spring break.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article108.
With continued restrictions in place on travel and social gatherings, many Canadians are looking for ways to make the most of their April break while keeping themselves and their communities safe. We’ve rounded up a list of eight staycation ideas that you can safely do together at home this spring break.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article108.
What to look for when buying a car seat
Keeping your child safe while driving is extremely important. A car seat or booster seat is a crucial piece of safety equipment that, when used correctly, greatly reduces the risk of injury or death in the event of a collision. Read on for frequently asked questions about purchasing a car seat to learn what to look for to best protect your child while in the car.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article109.
Keeping your child safe while driving is extremely important. A car seat or booster seat is a crucial piece of safety equipment that, when used correctly, greatly reduces the risk of injury or death in the event of a collision. Read on for frequently asked questions about purchasing a car seat to learn what to look for to best protect your child while in the car.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article109.
March 2021
Buying a car? Why your insurance provider should be the first person you tell
Whether you are driving a shiny new car off the lot or found a used car in good shape on an auto buy-and-sell page, you’ll need to notify your insurer before you write the cheque. The make, model and year of your vehicle are key factors in determining your auto insurance policy premiums and ensuring that you have the right amount of coverage in place. That’s why it’s so important to contact your insurance provider before you purchase a new vehicle. Depending on the make, model and year of your new vehicle, keeping your insurer updated could save you on your insurance premiums.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article102.
Whether you are driving a shiny new car off the lot or found a used car in good shape on an auto buy-and-sell page, you’ll need to notify your insurer before you write the cheque. The make, model and year of your vehicle are key factors in determining your auto insurance policy premiums and ensuring that you have the right amount of coverage in place. That’s why it’s so important to contact your insurance provider before you purchase a new vehicle. Depending on the make, model and year of your new vehicle, keeping your insurer updated could save you on your insurance premiums.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article102.
How a dash cam can help you save on car insurance
Are you among the one in ten Canadian drivers who has a dash cam installed in their car? As car safety technology continues to advance and more gadgets become available, dash cams are becoming an increasingly popular topic of conversation. With the average retail price upwards of $100, many drivers are wondering if installing a dash cam is worth it.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article103.
Are you among the one in ten Canadian drivers who has a dash cam installed in their car? As car safety technology continues to advance and more gadgets become available, dash cams are becoming an increasingly popular topic of conversation. With the average retail price upwards of $100, many drivers are wondering if installing a dash cam is worth it.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article103.
February 2021
5 common driving violations and how to avoid them
While we all do our best to obey the rules of the road, sometimes even the most seasoned drivers find themselves on the other side of a traffic stop. Getting pulled over for a driving violation generally results in a ticket to pay, along with a potential increase to your car insurance premium. Worried you may have picked up some bad driving habits over the years? As a refresher, here are some of the most common driving violations and how to avoid them.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article98
While we all do our best to obey the rules of the road, sometimes even the most seasoned drivers find themselves on the other side of a traffic stop. Getting pulled over for a driving violation generally results in a ticket to pay, along with a potential increase to your car insurance premium. Worried you may have picked up some bad driving habits over the years? As a refresher, here are some of the most common driving violations and how to avoid them.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article98
Myth buster: The truth about working with an insurance broker
If you’ve never worked with an insurance broker, you may have questions about what they do and how they are unique in the market place. Learn how OTIP insurance brokers advocate for thousands of members like you ensuring they make the right choice for their auto and home insurance needs.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article97.
If you’ve never worked with an insurance broker, you may have questions about what they do and how they are unique in the market place. Learn how OTIP insurance brokers advocate for thousands of members like you ensuring they make the right choice for their auto and home insurance needs.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article97.
January 2021
Move over: How to safely respond to emergency vehicles while driving
Seeing flashing lights approach you as you’re driving can be stressful. Some drivers panic and don’t effectively move out of the way, causing delays for emergency vehicles. The acronym “L.I.G.H.T.” will help you calmly and safely clear the way with five simple steps.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article95.
Seeing flashing lights approach you as you’re driving can be stressful. Some drivers panic and don’t effectively move out of the way, causing delays for emergency vehicles. The acronym “L.I.G.H.T.” will help you calmly and safely clear the way with five simple steps.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article95.
How to stay safe during an ice storm
When raindrops fall through a cold layer of air onto surfaces below 0⁰ C, it creates the perfect storm: freezing rain. Although ice covered tree branches can look pretty, most Canadians know how dangerous an ice storm can be. Ice storms can cause car accidents, nasty falls and power outages from fallen tree branches.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article93.
When raindrops fall through a cold layer of air onto surfaces below 0⁰ C, it creates the perfect storm: freezing rain. Although ice covered tree branches can look pretty, most Canadians know how dangerous an ice storm can be. Ice storms can cause car accidents, nasty falls and power outages from fallen tree branches.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article93.
December 2020
Fireplace safety tips for a cozy and safe winter
There’s nothing quite like cozying up by the fireplace on a cold winter’s evening. While many Canadians look forward to the warmth, light and ambiance that comes with a home fireplace, it’s important to practice proper fireplace safety. Review the following fireplace safety tips to ensure that you, your family and your home stay safe this season.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article90.
There’s nothing quite like cozying up by the fireplace on a cold winter’s evening. While many Canadians look forward to the warmth, light and ambiance that comes with a home fireplace, it’s important to practice proper fireplace safety. Review the following fireplace safety tips to ensure that you, your family and your home stay safe this season.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article90.
How to avoid issues when submitting an insurance claim
At OTIP, members are our reason for being, and helping you protect the people and things that mean the most to you is what we do best. No one wants to be faced with unexpected obstacles during the claims process, and we strive to make it hassle free. To ensure you don’t run into any issues when submitting a home or auto insurance claim, review these tips.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article92.
At OTIP, members are our reason for being, and helping you protect the people and things that mean the most to you is what we do best. No one wants to be faced with unexpected obstacles during the claims process, and we strive to make it hassle free. To ensure you don’t run into any issues when submitting a home or auto insurance claim, review these tips.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article92.
November 2020
How growing or using recreational marijuana may impact your home insurance
The consumption, possession and growing of recreational cannabis was legalized in Canada in late 2018. While the legalization of recreational cannabis is still quite new, many Canadians are starting to wonder how this change may impact their home insurance premiums or their ability to secure coverage.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article86
The consumption, possession and growing of recreational cannabis was legalized in Canada in late 2018. While the legalization of recreational cannabis is still quite new, many Canadians are starting to wonder how this change may impact their home insurance premiums or their ability to secure coverage.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article86
Driving in the rain? How to avoid hydroplaning and control your vehicle
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water comes between your car’s tires and the road, causing your car to skid or slide across a wet surface. Even for the most experienced driver, this loss of steering and braking control can be a terrifying experience with potentially disastrous consequences.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article85.
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water comes between your car’s tires and the road, causing your car to skid or slide across a wet surface. Even for the most experienced driver, this loss of steering and braking control can be a terrifying experience with potentially disastrous consequences.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article85.
October 2020
Don’t Make These 5 Common Renovation Mistakes!
Renovating can make your home or office feel fresh, new and inviting. It’s an exciting opportunity to dream about your ideal space and make it a reality. If you’re going through the time, effort and expense to renovate, make sure you do it right the first time around by avoiding these five common mistakes. Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article83
Renovating can make your home or office feel fresh, new and inviting. It’s an exciting opportunity to dream about your ideal space and make it a reality. If you’re going through the time, effort and expense to renovate, make sure you do it right the first time around by avoiding these five common mistakes. Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article83
Driving For a Rideshare or Food Delivery App Company On The Side? Make Sure You Are Covered!
If you’re looking for a way to make extra cash, signing up to be a driver for a popular rideshare or food delivery app like Uber or Skip the Dishes as a part-time gig can be lucrative. However, it also increases your risk of getting into a car accident. When you spend hours of your day on the road, you’re more likely to encounter an unsafe driver or make mistakes due to fatigue. If you do get into an accident, it’s important to know if your personal car insurance will cover any damages, the app company provides coverage for its drivers or you need to purchase additional coverage.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article82
If you’re looking for a way to make extra cash, signing up to be a driver for a popular rideshare or food delivery app like Uber or Skip the Dishes as a part-time gig can be lucrative. However, it also increases your risk of getting into a car accident. When you spend hours of your day on the road, you’re more likely to encounter an unsafe driver or make mistakes due to fatigue. If you do get into an accident, it’s important to know if your personal car insurance will cover any damages, the app company provides coverage for its drivers or you need to purchase additional coverage.
Learn more at www.otipinsurance.com/article82