If you have been paying attention to the news lately you have likely seen a report coming out of Ottawa about a car going through the ice. This has led to many of our clients and friends asking if they are covered when your vehicle falls through the ice.
The answer is- Maybe. If you have Section 7- Loss Damage Coverage (Specified Perils, Comprehensive, Collision, or All Perils) AND your car fell through the ice accidentally your insurance company would likely pay the claim.
Why do I say maybe? I say maybe because the OAP1 lists that if you are convicted of “dangerous operation of a motor vehicle we (the insurance company) will not pay for loss of damage to the vehicle. (Section 7.2.2 of the OA1).
Practically speaking for the average driver this means that if you are taking all reasonable steps to stay safe, have your vehicle insured with Section 7 coverages, and still go through the ice you likely have nothing to worry about.
If you’re doing the opposite- driving in such a way that you are charged and convicted of “Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle’- then be worried as you may end out having to pay for your own loss/damage to your car.
If you want to know more coverage for driving your vehicle on the ice, contact any licensed member of the Guardsman Insurance team.
Thomas D. Watson, CD, CIP
Vice-President