Off-Road Vehicle in the Desert

Off-roadvehicles

Insurance

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Off-Road Freedom, Protection Without Compromise

Owning a snowmobile, motocross bike, or ATV means adventure is part of everyday life. But with the fun comes responsibility. As a driver or owner of an off-road vehicle, the law requires you to carry civil liability insurance of at least $500,000. While this legal minimum is essential, it is often insufficient to cover the real risks associated with this type of riding.

Even if you already have coverage through your auto insurance, it may not be suited to the specific needs of an off-road vehicle. Coverage can be limited, and adjusting your premiums may be difficult without incurring significant costs.

That’s why the experts at J. Gérard Fortin & Associates work with firms specializing in off-road vehicle insurance. Whether you enjoy snowy trails, forest adventures, or off-road competitions, we help you find the coverage you need. Get customized protection designed for your riding style at truly competitive rates.

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How to Choose the Right Off-Road Vehicle Insurance

Insuring an off-road vehicle requires special attention. Each snowmobile, motocross bike, or ATV has its own characteristics, and the risks vary depending on how you use it. Whether for occasional recreational use or frequent outings, the type of coverage should match your reality.

By consulting the experts at J. Gérard Fortin & Associates, you ensure personalized guidance in selecting your insurance. In partnership with specialized insurers, we assess your needs by considering the driver, the vehicle, the frequency of use, and the type of terrain.

We help you go well beyond the mandatory civil liability coverage. We advise on additional protections that may be useful in your situation, such as theft, accidental damage, or medical expenses in case of a fall. Because riding freely also means riding with confidence.

Why Insure Your Off-Road Vehicle

Owning an off-road vehicle, whether it’s an ATV, snowmobile, or motocross bike, comes with responsibilities. Unlike road vehicles, the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) does not collect premiums for these vehicles. This means no compensation will be provided by the SAAQ in the event of an injury during an accident.

In most cases, it is therefore your own insurance that will cover damages caused to others. And what about your own injuries? You simply need to subscribe to the appropriate coverage. Good insurance not only provides peace of mind but also valuable financial support in case of an accident.

Additionally, if you finance your vehicle, your lender will likely require proof of insurance before you can take possession. That’s one more reason to carefully choose your coverage.

Types of Coverage Offered

In Quebec, insurance for an off-road vehicle operates under the same principles as standard auto insurance and consists of two distinct parts.

The first, mandatory, is civil liability insurance. The law requires a minimum coverage of $500,000, but we strongly recommend opting for $1 million. This coverage protects against bodily injury or property damage caused to others when the SAAQ does not provide compensation.

The second, optional, covers damage to your own vehicle as well as any bodily injuries you may sustain. The brokers at J. Gérard Fortin & Associates are there to guide you through these protections and recommend the options best suited to your situation and budget.

Additional Protections for Complete Coverage

Some optional features can significantly enhance your insurance:

  • Replacement Cost Coverage (also called “new-for-old”): Repairs your vehicle with new, original parts in the event of damage. If your vehicle is declared a total loss, you receive compensation equal to the original purchase price, without depreciation.

  • Personal Insurance: Provides benefits in the event of death or reimburses certain medical expenses resulting from an accident involving your snowmobile, ATV, or motocross bike.

Other protections can also be added based on your specific needs. Our brokers help you choose the options that make sense for your situation.

Reducing the Cost of Your ATV Insurance

You can lower your insurance premium with a few simple steps:

  • Insuring multiple vehicles with the same company can give you a discount.

  • Increasing your deductible can reduce your annual premium.

  • Installing a reliable anti-theft system reduces risks and, consequently, your insurance costs.

  • Practicing responsible driving and maintaining a good credit history can also positively influence your premium.

Our brokers can propose different strategies to optimize your coverage while controlling costs.

What to Do in Case of an Accident

If an accident occurs and there are injuries, call 911 immediately and stay calm while waiting for assistance. Safety is always the priority.

If there are no injuries, complete a joint accident report with the other driver. If you don’t have one available, note essential details: name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, registration, and insurance certificate of the other party. These details are crucial for processing your claim efficiently.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to insure each driver separately if multiple people use my off-road vehicle?

Yes. All drivers who use your snowmobile, ATV, or motocross bike must be specifically named on the insurance policy for coverage to be valid in the event of an incident.

Does the insurance cover damage that occurs off marked trails?

Coverage depends on the terms of your policy. Some protections exclude activities off authorized trails. It’s important to discuss your riding habits with your broker to avoid any surprises.

Can I insure an off-road vehicle even if it’s not registered?

Yes, it is possible to insure an unregistered off-road vehicle, particularly if it is used exclusively on private property. Conditions may vary depending on the specialized insurer.