Many Ontario policyholders are surprised when their insurance premiums increase, especially if they haven’t filed a claim or changed their coverage. While your personal insurance history plays a role in pricing, broader economic factors can also have a significant impact.

This is often referred to as insurance inflation — the rising cost of repairing, replacing, and settling insurance claims. As those costs increase, premiums may need to adjust as well.

What Is Insurance Inflation?

Insurance inflation occurs when the cost of claims rises over time. Unlike everyday inflation that affects groceries or household expenses, insurance inflation is driven by factors such as:

• Higher repair and replacement costs
• Increased labour expenses
• More expensive vehicle technology
• Rising legal and medical costs
• Growing claims from theft, weather events, and accidents

Insurance companies use premiums collected today to pay future claims. When claim costs increase, insurers may need to adjust rates to keep pace with those expenses.

Why Auto Insurance Premiums Have Increased in Ontario

Several market conditions have contributed to rising auto insurance costs across Ontario in recent years.

Vehicle Repairs Are More Expensive

Modern vehicles contain advanced technology such as cameras, sensors, collision avoidance systems, and computerized components. While these features improve safety, they can significantly increase repair costs after an accident.

What may have once been a simple bumper replacement can now involve recalibrating multiple sensors and electronic systems.

Inflation Continues to Affect Parts and Labour

The cost of vehicle parts, repairs, and skilled labour has increased substantially in recent years. Supply chain disruptions and technician shortages have also contributed to longer repair times and higher claim costs.

When insurers pay more to repair vehicles, those increased costs are reflected across the insurance market.

Auto Theft Remains a Major Concern

Ontario continues to experience high rates of vehicle theft, particularly involving certain makes and models. According to industry data, auto theft claim costs have increased dramatically over the past several years, exceeding $1 billion annually in Ontario alone. Auto theft now adds significant costs to the insurance system and can affect premiums for many drivers.

More Drivers Are Back on the Road

Traffic levels have largely returned to pre-pandemic norms. More vehicles on the road generally mean more collisions, which leads to increased claims costs for insurers. During the pandemic, many insurers reduced rates or offered rebates because people were driving less. As driving activity has increased, claims frequency has followed.

Other Factors That Can Affect Your Premium

In addition to insurance inflation, your premium may change if:

• You move to a new address
• You purchase a different vehicle
• You add or remove drivers from your policy
• Your annual driving habits change
• Your coverage limits or deductibles are adjusted
• Discounts you previously qualified for no longer apply

Each renewal is based on a combination of personal risk factors and market conditions.

What Can You Do to Help Manage Costs?

While you can’t control inflation, there are steps you can take to help keep your insurance costs competitive:

• Review your coverage regularly with your broker
• Ask about available discounts
• Consider bundling policies
• Maintain a clean driving record
• Install approved anti-theft devices or winter tires for further discounts
• Work with a broker to get the best rates available 

The Merit Difference

Insurance premiums are influenced by much more than individual claims history. Economic conditions, repair costs, vehicle theft, and industry-wide trends all play a role in determining rates across Ontario.

At Merit Insurance, we help clients understand the factors behind their premiums and review coverage options to ensure they remain properly protected. If your renewal looks different this year, we’re here to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions about your coverage.

For many families, a travel trailer is more than just a vehicle for weekend trips. It becomes a seasonal home, a vacation hub, and a major investment filled with personal belongings, appliances, outdoor equipment, and camping gear.

Whether you’re travelling across Canada, heading into the U.S., or parked at a seasonal campsite for the summer, the right insurance coverage helps protect both your trailer and the lifestyle that comes with it.

What Does Travel Trailer Insurance Cover?

Travel trailer insurance is designed to cover more than physical damage after an accident. Depending on your policy, coverage can extend to:

• Damage from fire, theft, vandalism, storms, or collisions
• Personal belongings and contents typically kept at a campsite
• Appliances, outdoor equipment, and attached accessories
• Liability protection if someone is injured around your trailer or campsite

Many trailer owners are surprised to learn how much value is stored inside their RV, from electronics and cooking equipment to camping gear and personal items. Proper coverage helps protect those belongings both on the road and while parked at a campsite.

Coverage Beyond Basic Repairs

Travel trailer insurance can also include additional protections that many owners overlook until they need them.

Some policies may include:

• Debris removal after a covered loss
• Extended warranty coverage for appliances
• Lock replacement if keys are lost or stolen
• Frozen food protection during power failures or equipment breakdowns

These smaller coverages can help reduce unexpected out-of-pocket expenses during a claim.

What Happens If Your Trailer Breaks Down?

A breakdown while travelling can quickly become stressful and expensive, especially if you’re far from home.

Certain travel trailer policies include financial assistance for travel expenses if your RV becomes unusable due to a covered loss. This can help cover temporary transportation, accommodations, or costs associated with getting home safely.

Basic limited emergency roadside service may also be available if you’re stuck at the side of the road. Coverage options can include:

• Increased towing coverage up to 500 kilometres
• Battery boost assistance
• Flat tire service
• Fuel delivery
• Lockout service
• Pet assistance
• Trip planning assistance
• Travel and emergency medical advice

Coverage for U.S. Travel

Many trailer owners tow their trailers into the continental United States during the warmer months. Coverage options are available for trailers travelling in the continental U.S. for up to 180 days, helping ensure you remain protected while away from home.

Before travelling, it’s always a good idea to review your policy limits, territory restrictions, and emergency assistance options.

Guaranteed Replacement Cost Protection

One of the most valuable options available for recreational and park model trailers is Guaranteed Replacement Cost coverage.

If your trailer is written off after a covered loss, this coverage can provide the cost of a brand-new replacement model, even if the replacement price exceeds your policy limit.

With the rising cost of RVs and trailers, this protection can be especially important for newer units.

Protection That Fits How You Travel

Every trailer owner uses their RV differently. Some spend weekends at local campgrounds, while others travel across Canada and the U.S. for months at a time.

Having coverage that reflects how you actually use your trailer can make a major difference when the unexpected happens.

At Merit Insurance Brokers, we take the time to explain your options, identify potential coverage gaps, and help tailor protection to your travel habits, trailer type, and budget.

That’s The Merit Difference — practical advice, personalized service, and coverage designed around real life on the road.

Protecting Your Boat During the Summer

There’s nothing quite like summer in Ontario, warm days on the lake, cruising with friends, or dropping a line at your favourite fishing spot. Whether you own a fishing boat, pontoon, sailboat, or personal watercraft, summer is the season to enjoy it. But before you untie the dock lines, it’s essential to make sure your boat insurance is ready to go.

At Merit Insurance, we help boat owners navigate the coverage they need so they can focus on what matters most: enjoying every minute on the water.

Why You Need Boat Insurance

Just like your car or home, your boat is a valuable asset, and accidents happen, even on calm waters. Boat insurance helps protect you from unexpected costs due to:

• Damage or theft: Boats can be damaged by storms, collisions, or vandalism, even while stored.
• Liability: If someone is injured on your boat or you cause damage to someone else’s property, insurance helps cover legal and medical costs.
• Towing and assistance: Getting stranded in the middle of the lake? Insurance can cover emergency towing or fuel delivery.
• Equipment and accessories: Coverage can also extend to your onboard gear, like GPS systems, trailers, and fishing equipment.

Common Summer Risks

The summer season brings unique risks for boaters. Increased water traffic, sudden weather changes, and hidden hazards, such as submerged debris, can all put your watercraft at risk. Here are a few seasonal safety tips:

• Check the forecast before you head out.
• Inspect your boat for signs of wear and tear, particularly the engine, lines, and safety gear.
• Know the rules: Review boating regulations for your province and local waterways.
• Don’t drink and boat: Impaired boating is illegal and dangerous.

Coverage That Fits Your Life

Merit Insurance collaborates with Canadian insurers to provide customized coverage for boats of all sizes, ranging from small fishing boats to cabin cruisers and personal watercraft. We’ll walk you through your options and help you choose the proper protection for your budget, lifestyle, and type of watercraft.

If your boat is part of a seasonal lifestyle, such as being trailered to the cottage or stored in the winter, we’ll ensure your policy reflects these details.

Let’s Get You Ready for the Water

Whether you’re a seasoned boater or launching your first vessel, Merit Insurance is here to help make sure your summer stays smooth sailing. Contact our team today to receive a quote or review your existing policy.

Enjoy the season. We’ll take care of the protection.

RV and Camper Insurance for Summer Road Trips

At Merit Insurance, we understand the excitement that comes with hitting the road in your RV or camper. Whether you’re parking beside a quiet lake, exploring the Rockies, or road-tripping across provinces, your RV isn’t just a vehicle; it’s your summer home.

Why RV and Camper Insurance Is Important

Many RV owners assume their trailer or motorhome is covered under their home or auto policy. In reality, those policies often fall short, especially when it comes to damage, liability, or protection for personal belongings.

Dedicated RV insurance can provide coverage for:

• Physical damage – Accidents, fire, storms, vandalism, and more
• Liability – In case someone is injured in or around your unit
• Theft or damage to contents – Including electronics, tools, and camping gear
• Emergency expenses – Hotel or travel costs if your RV becomes unusable far from home

If your RV is financed or leased, full coverage is typically required.

Tailored to Your Type of RV and Camper

Different RVs need different types of insurance. We’ll help you choose what’s right:

• Motorhomes (Class A, B, or C): These self-powered units require their policy, similar to auto insurance.
• Travel trailers, fifth-wheels, and pop-ups: These are towable and may be added to your auto policy, but a separate policy offers more complete protection.

If you’ve invested time and money in your RV, it makes sense to ensure it’s adequately insured.

Seasonal Use? We’ve Got You Covered

Most RVs in Canada are used seasonally. That’s why we offer flexible insurance options that reflect how and when you use your camper.

Some plans even include storage protection, covering theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage while your unit is parked for the off-season.

Optional Add-Ons for Extra Coverage

Depending on your travel plans, we can help you customize your policy with:

• Roadside assistance
• Protection for attached accessories – like awnings, bike racks, and solar panels
• Coverage for rental income – if you rent out your RV occasionally

Let’s Get You Road-Trip Ready

Before you hit the road this summer, make sure your RV or camper is insured for whatever the journey brings. At Merit Insurance, we’ll walk you through your options, explain what’s covered, and help you travel with confidence.

Reach out to us today to learn more about RV and camper insurance and get ready for a smooth, worry-free summer adventure.

Boating Adventures: Why Boat Insurance is Essential

At Merit Insurance, we’re all about more than just policies – we’re here to make sure your summer on the water is both safe and enjoyable. Boating isn’t just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle filled with exploration, relaxation, and excitement. As the end of summer approaches, there’s still time to make the most of every moment on the water. To help you do just that, we offer boat insurance designed to cover a range of risks, whether you’re sailing, engaging in watersports, or cruising in style.

Why Boat Insurance Matters

1. Protection Against Accidents and Damage

Just like any vehicle, accidents can happen on the water. Whether it’s a collision with another boat, damage from storms, or mishaps during transportation or storage, unexpected events can lead to significant repair costs. Boat insurance covers repairs or replacement, so you can keep enjoying your time on the water without stress.

2. Coverage for Theft and Vandalism

Theft and vandalism can be real concerns, especially when boats are docked or stored. Whether it’s valuable equipment or the boat itself that’s at risk, the financial and emotional impact can be tough. Boat insurance helps cover theft and vandalism, ensuring you’re not left dealing with the fallout on your own and allowing you to get back to your adventures quickly.

3. Liability Coverage

Liability coverage is a crucial part of boat insurance, just like with auto or homeowners insurance. It protects you if you’re responsible for injuries to others or damage to their property while operating your boat. Whether it’s an injury to a guest or damage caused to another boat, liability coverage helps with potential legal expenses and settlements.

4. Tailored Coverage Options

Every boat and boater is unique, so Merit Insurance offers customized coverage options to suit your specific needs. Whether you have a sailboat, a fishing boat, a yacht, or a personal watercraft, our brokers can tailor a policy that fits your vessel and your lifestyle. From extra coverage for specialized equipment to options for racing boats, we’ve got you covered.

5. Additional Benefits

• Medical, Death, or Funeral Benefits: In the unfortunate event of an accident, our policies provide support for medical, death, or funeral expenses.
• Agreed Value Coverage: If your boat is written off, agreed value coverage ensures you get the amount you insured it for, applicable for boats up to 15 years old.
• Single Policy Limit Coverage: Simplify your coverage with a single limit that includes hull, engine, and trailer or cradle.
• Coverage for Personal Effects: Your personal belongings on the boat are covered in case of theft or damage.
• Navigation Equipment Coverage: Damage or theft of navigation equipment is covered, so you’re always prepared for safe boating.
• Loss of Use Coverage: Covers the cost of rental cars, taxis, or public transit while your boat is being repaired.
• Emergency Towing and Marine Assistance: Access emergency towing and marine assistance services for unexpected issues on the water.
• Guaranteed Replacement Cost: For boats up to 3 years old, guaranteed replacement cost covers the full amount needed to replace your boat with a new one.

At Merit Insurance, we’re committed to ensuring your boat and summer adventures are well-protected. Our team of brokers is here to help you navigate the insurance options and find the right coverage for your needs.

Experience the Merit difference – where protecting your enjoyment on the water is our top priority. Contact us today and set sail for the end of summer of unforgettable boating adventures, fully covered every nautical mile of the way!

Your Guide to Motorhome Insurance – Summer Travelling with Merit Insurance

Summer ignites the wanderlust in us all. It’s the perfect time to hit the open road with your motorhome and explore the breathtaking landscapes across North America. A motorhome serves as your home on wheels, providing you with the freedom and comfort to travel wherever your heart desires. However, with this freedom comes the responsibility of ensuring your vehicle is properly insured. Unless you can afford to replace or repair your motorhome, camper van, and the belongings in it out-of-pocket, you’ll need the right type of insurance for proper protection.

The Importance of Motorhome Insurance

Your motorhome is not just a vehicle; it’s an investment in your adventures, your safety, and your comfort. As such, it requires specialized insurance that covers a wide range of potential risks. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip across Ontario, camping in the Rockies, or visiting family in the U.S., having the right insurance is crucial.

Benefits of Motorhome Insurance

1. Protection Against Accidents: In the event of an accident, insurance can cover the expenses needed to escort your family home or get your vehicle back on the road. With flexible deductible options, you can choose how much you’re willing to pay upfront if you file a claim.
2. Coverage for Natural Disasters: All Perils coverage protects against most losses, including lightning, windstorms, earthquakes, rising water, fires, hail, and other natural disasters that can cause significant damage to your motorhome. Insurance provides coverage for Mother Nature’s unpredictable events.
3. Theft Protection: Motorhomes are often targeted by thieves. Insurance covers the theft of your vehicle as well as the belongings inside it.
4. Liability Coverage: A third-party liability policy safeguards you against lawsuits for physical injury or damage to someone else’s property, while accident benefits and uninsured automobile coverage provide additional layers of security.
5. Replacement Coverage: For motorhomes up to five years old, replacement cost coverage ensures you won’t be left with a financial burden in the case of a total loss. The insurance also covers the contents inside your motorhome, making sure you’re well-protected no matter what comes your way.

Travelling in your motorhome this summer should be an adventure filled with joy and relaxation, not worry. Our brokers understand the unique needs of motorhome owners. The Merit Difference shines through in our commitment to exceptional customer service and our dedication to crafting policies that perfectly align with your lifestyle, ensuring that your summer travels are not just protected, but also enriched with peace of mind.

The Crucial Role of Accident Benefits in Auto Insurance: Why Increasing Limits Matters

Accidents can disrupt our lives in an instant. In Ontario, having a comprehensive auto insurance policy is not just a legal requirement but a crucial financial safety net. As part of our Merit Difference, we believe in keeping people informed about the various aspects of insurance coverage that can significantly impact your life. In this blog, we want to shed light on the often-overlooked yet crucial component of auto insurance – Accident Benefit Insurance and the advantages of increasing your limits.

Understanding Accident Benefits:

Accident Benefits are provisions in auto insurance policies designed to provide financial support to individuals injured in vehicle accidents. In Ontario, these benefits are governed by the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), a set of regulations outlining the entitlements and limits for accident victims.

What is included in Accident Benefit Insurance? 

Income Replacement:

The standard level of income replacement included in your policy is set at a maximum of $400 per week, based on 70% of your gross weekly income. However, purchasing optional coverage allows you to increase this limit, ensuring that you have sufficient financial support during recovery or rehabilitation.

Medical, Rehabilitation, and Attendant Care:

The standard benefit covers up to $65,000 for medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care expenses over a five-year period for non-catastrophic injuries. For catastrophic impairments, the coverage extends up to $1,000,000. By opting for additional coverage, you can tailor these benefits to your specific needs, providing extended support beyond the standard limits.

Caregiver, Housekeeping, and Home Maintenance Expenses:

Typically available only for those deeply impaired, the standard benefit for caregiver, housekeeping, and home maintenance expenses can be extended to cover impairments through optional benefits. This ensures that you receive the necessary assistance, regardless of the severity of the impairment.

Dependent Care:

For those employed and caring for dependents, there is no standard dependent care benefit. However, an optional benefit can be added to your policy, offering additional weekly dependent care expenses. This can be a lifeline for individuals juggling employment and caregiving responsibilities, providing financial relief during challenging times.

Death and Funeral Benefit:

In the unfortunate event of a fatality, the standard death benefits are $25,000 to the surviving spouse and $10,000 to the surviving dependant, with a $6,000 funeral expense benefit. By opting for additional coverage, these amounts can be doubled, providing your loved ones with greater financial support during a difficult period.

Indexation Benefit:

To ensure that your benefits keep pace with the rising cost of living, the Indexation Benefit can be added to your policy. This optional coverage adjusts certain weekly benefit payments and monetary limits annually, safeguarding your coverage against inflation.

Your Merit Insurance broker is your partner in navigating the complexities of insurance coverage. When it comes to Accident Benefits, discussing the option of increasing your limits with your broker is a proactive step towards securing comprehensive protection. Your broker can assess your individual needs, recommend appropriate coverage options, and tailor your policy to provide the financial security you and your family deserve.

Bundling Your Insurance Lines for Optimal Coverage – The Merit Difference

In today’s fast-paced world, managing various insurance policies across different providers can be a daunting task. Keeping track of premiums, renewals, and policy details can quickly become overwhelming. With Merit Insurance, you’re not just another policyholder – you’re a valued client, and we take pride in understanding your unique needs and concerns. In this blog we will explore the advantages of bundling your insurance lines and how our brokers can create a custom protection plan for you.

1. A Comprehensive View of Your Insurance Needs

Our experienced brokers gain a holistic understanding of your lifestyle, assets, and liabilities when you consolidate your insurance lines with us. This comprehensive view allows us to identify potential gaps in coverage and recommend tailored solutions to ensure you’re adequately protected.

2. Cost-effective Bundling Options:

Bundling your insurance lines with Merit can lead to increased savings. By combining policies like auto, property, recreational, or business under one roof, you unlock the potential for multi-policy discounts. This means more value for your hard-earned money without compromising on coverage.

3. Simplified Management and Administration:

Dealing with multiple insurance providers can be time-consuming and confusing. By consolidating your policies with Merit, you streamline the administrative process. Our tailored approach makes it easy for you to access policy information, make changes, and handle claims efficiently with one broker.

4. Tailored Solutions with the Merit Difference:

We understand that every client’s insurance needs are unique. That’s why we offer personalized, one-on-one service that we call the Merit Difference. Our brokers take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and craft insurance solutions that align with your goals.

5. Access to a Wide Range of Insurance Lines:

We’re proud of the relationships we have with a variety of Canada’s top insurers and the extensive insurance offerings to our clients. Whether you’re safeguarding your family home, protecting your business assets, or auto, we have the right coverage for you.

6. Guidance for Informed Decisions:

Our seasoned brokers are well-versed in the intricacies of the insurance industry. We stay up-to-date with the latest trends, regulations, and products to provide you with informed recommendations. You can trust us to guide you towards the most suitable coverage options for your specific circumstances.

Entrusting Merit Insurance with all your insurance lines offers you a host of advantages, from a more complete view of your needs to potential cost savings through bundling. Our personalized approach and wide range of coverage options make us the ideal choice for safeguarding your assets and securing your future.

Experience the Merit Difference today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having all your insurance needs met under one roof. Contact us to explore how we can tailor a comprehensive insurance solution just for you.

How To Prevent Collisions With Animals And What To Do If It’s Too Late

The May 2-4 weekend is the unofficial start to summer. Many Canadians choose to usher in the long weekend with a trip up to cottage country. Although the commute up North is a beautiful scenic drive, it is also a place where collisions involving large animals are reported every year. The Ontario Provincial Police estimate they see 14,000 reports a year involving car accidents with animals. That’s the highest number reported in all of Canada!

Not only do these car accidents harm the wildlife but hitting a large animal such as a deer or moose can cause serious damage to your vehicle or bodily harm. In this blog, we outline how to prevent a collision with an animal, what to do if you have an accident and how it can impact your insurance.

Tips to minimize the risk of a collision

Although some accidents with animals are unavoidable, here is a list of preventative measures to help you and the animals stay safe.

1. Your best defence when driving through the countryside is to avoid driving at dawn or dusk. This is when wildlife is most active and likely to be seen roadside.
2. This may seem obvious but keep your eyes on the road! Note for yellow wildlife signs alongside the road, stay alert and free of distractions and be aware of your surroundings. Roads that hug the treeline can be particularly dangerous so make sure to be mindful of your peripheral view. This is especially true when driving alone, but if you have a passenger on board, also ask them to be alert for any signs of animals.
3. See and be seen. When driving at night, use your high beams when passing through dimly lit areas. Not only will your headlights reveal more of the road, but they also illuminate the animal’s eyes. Note; when passing other vehicles on the road make sure to turn off your high beams!
4. Mind your speed. We don’t need to explain why it’s not recommended to be speeding on the windy, poorly lit roads up North! When travelling at the appropriate speed, you have a better chance to react when confronted with an animal. If you spot an animal ahead, slow down and brake smoothly at a distance. Remember animals can be unpredictable and it’s best not to get too close.
5. Be alert. Don’t drive while drowsy or under the influence of alcohol/cannabis.

If you have made contact with an animal, what’s next?

Although it may be counter instinctual, if you cannot avoid a collision from happening, it is recommended to drive straight towards the spot the animal came from instead of where it is going. By maintaining your direction, you reduce the risk of swerving into oncoming traffic with another vehicle, or higher impact with the animal itself. If a collision does occur, your main priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of yourself and others in the car.

Depending on the severity of the accident and the type of animal involved, you will need to call 9-1-1 to report the incident.

How does this impact your insurance?

An accident involving a large animal can cause considerable damage to your vehicle. If you have physical damage coverage as part of your auto policy, the cost of damage is likely to be covered. This is optional coverage and not a part of a standard policy.

Generally, hitting an animal will not affect your auto insurance rates. It is typically deemed as a not-at-fault accident and paid out by the insurance policy. However, the situation would change if an animal causes you to swerve off the road and get in an accident with another car. Talk to your Merit broker to discuss how this would impact your premiums.

Getting into any type of car accident can be scary. But a collision with a wild animal can be particularly jarring. If you are heading up North this long weekend, make sure you have the right coverage to protect you in the event of a collision with an animal. If you have any questions or want to update your coverage, reach out to your licensed Merit broker.

Tips For Parking Your Summer Vehicle

Part of Canada’s charm comes from having different seasons. In Ontario, our climate ranges from dry heat in the summer to bitter cold in the dead of winter. However, some vehicles are not built to withstand all four seasons. Your summer convertible or vintage ride is designed for warm sunny days, free of snow, slush and salt that plague Ontario’s winter roads.

As we approach the winter months, here is everything you need to know before your seasonal car goes into hibernation.

What is considered a seasonal vehicle?

A seasonal vehicle is one that is only used for a portion of the year, such as snowmobiles, ATVs, classic cars, or convertibles. Typically, seasonal vehicles are expensive and not designed to be driven year-round in places like Ontario. In order to protect your asset, proper maintenance, storage and adequate insurance are a must-have!

Tips for putting your car into storage.

Whether you store your vehicle in a shed, outside or inside your garage, it is important to take the following steps to make for an easy transition back onto the road in the warmer months.

• Before storage, make sure to thoroughly clean your car inside and out. Rid the car of any tree sap drops or dirt build-up with a good hand wash, polish up that chrome and apply a coat of wax to the paint.
• Throw out food wrappers, soda cans, and any other trash that may have accumulated in the vehicle’s cabin. This can attract unwanted visitors such as raccoons or other animals.
• Inflate your tires with slightly higher air pressure before storing your vehicle because tires can deflate over time with temperature changes. Make sure not to exceed the tire’s maximum air pressure, which can be found on the side of the tire.
• Invest in a car cover. Especially if you store your car outside, make sure it is waterproof and quality material. However, even cars inside can also benefit from a basic cover because it stops the exterior from accumulating dust and dirt. It also provides an added barrier should the car get accidentally hit while moving items around in the garage.

Changes to your car insurance?

Auto insurance is required by law in Canada, but did you know while your seasonal vehicle is in storage, you are eligible to remove liability and accident benefits insurance on that vehicle? Although the option of cancellation is available, it isn’t necessarily the best choice. The main reason to keep your car insurance intact over the winter is to protect your vehicle while in storage. With insurance, your vehicle is protected from vandalism, fires, theft, and even weather-related damage.

There are a lot of factors to be mindful of when putting your seasonal vehicle in storage for the winter. The first being maintaining the physical integrity of the car by properly storing it in a dry and safe place. But the second is protecting your asset from unknown risks. Talk to a Merit broker to determine what is the best coverage for your seasonal vehicle and get protected all year long.