While the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has been around since 1973, it can feel like their technology is stuck back in time. Their website is often frustratingly vague, and if you’re looking to buy or renew Autoplan insurance, chances are you’ll be redirected to an independent broker. If you’re looking for information on renewing your ICBC insurance and how to find proper coverage, here are a few things to keep in mind.
A Complicated Website
To save you the time of clicking around the ICBC site for hours on end, there are currently no online purchase or renewal options. While ICBC stated back in 2015 that it was looking into offering online convenience, it seems they’ve made very little progress in the last three years. Instead, you need to find one of their licensed brokers to handle your renewal. Luckily, there are over 900 brokers spread across the province.
For all its faults, the ICBC site does offer a broker locator to speed up the process. Remember that renewals are yearly at most and more frequently if you’re using a short-term Autoplan policy. Thankfully, ICBC allows you to renew up to 55 days before your Autoplan expiration date if you’re one of those people who prefers to get things done ahead of time. The site also has some helpful FAQs on unique situations such as out-of-province license renewals and specific renewal deadlines.
Legal Considerations
If you’re ever in an accident, it’s a modern myth that you need a lawyer to seek and receive damages from a claim. However, it is strongly recommended. First and foremost, the insurance adjuster assigned to your claim is always working for ICBC, not for you. It’s their ultimate goal to save themselves time and money while chipping away at your claim until you receive the bare minimum. Doesn’t sound very fair, does it? While the odds are typically stacked against you, save for in the most cut-and-dry cases, a personal injury lawyer that specializes in ICBC claims helps level the playing field.
If you’re considering legal recourse following an accident, contact the ICBC claims experts at firms like Preszler Law BC to help you navigate the tricky process of acquiring the damages you deserve. From helping you gather and record necessary information to avoiding common claim mistakes, a legal representative is your best course of action if you’re serious about pursuing a personal injury claim following an auto accident.
Other Insurance Options
ICBC was once the only offering in British Columbia, but that’s no longer the case. While every driver is legally required to hold and maintain basic Autoplan insurance, this is the bare minimum of required coverage. With any standard one-size plan, it has significant limitations when it comes to protecting both you and your vehicle. ICBC does offer additional insurance options, but it’s always worth scoping out the competition to compare rates, plans, and coverage options.
Some of the benefits of private insurance companies include lower deductibles, 24/7 claim services, emergency roadside assistance, and rental vehicle coverage. If you spend a lot of time on the road, have recently purchased a new vehicle, or own a luxury vehicle which is no longer covered by standard Autoplan insurance, it’s a good idea to take a look at what private agencies have to offer.
Ahead of the Curve
No matter what, make sure that you’re always covered by basic Autoplan insurance any time you’re on the road. After all, it’s mandatory for BC citizens, and if you’re in an accident while uninsured, you’re sure to face some heavy fines and penalties. It’s always best to renew ahead of time to save you the frustration of missing a deadline. ICBC insurance is often overwhelming to understand, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re ever confused on your coverage or want to purchase additional insurance, contact your broker or a private insurance agency. They’ll be able to steer you in the right direction and get you back behind the wheel.