Car Insurance in Smithers, British Columbia

Everything Smithers Drivers Need To Know About ICBC

Car Insurance in Smithers: ICBC (The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia)
Average cost: $1000-$5000 / year
ICBC car insurance is mandatory for all BC drivers
Optional car insurance add-ons are available from private insurance brokers in Smithers like Western Coast

Get the Best Car Insurance in Smithers – Save Money and Stay Protected

Getting insured with ICBC in Smithers helps you to protect yourself, your vehicle, and your finances. Whether you're commuting daily, running errands, or enjoying a drive through the Bulkley Valley, having a reliable ICBC auto insurance policy means you're covered in case of accidents, theft, or unexpected damages. At our Western Coast location in Smithers, we specialize in helping drivers secure the best auto insurance rates while ensuring they meet all British Columbia car insurance requirements.

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What Is ICBC? How Car Insurance Works In Smithers, British Columbia

ICBC stands for the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, which provides standard car insurance coverage for the entire province of British Columbia.

If you're driving in Smithers, BC, you'll need to register for ICBC car insurance coverage. ICBC does have a monopoly on basic car insurance coverage in BC, but it competes against other insurers for all optional car insurance coverages. At Western, we make the process convenient by comparing car insurance quotes —helping you find the right provider at the best price.

Driving in British Columbia comes with its own set of challenges, from city traffic in Vancouver to scenic highways, rural tracks, and unpredictable weather. That’s why having the right optional coverages is essential. Whether you're a new driver looking for first-time car insurance or reassessing your policy, understanding how ICBC car insurance works will help you stay safe on the road.

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Understanding Car Insurance in Smithers, British Columbia – Your Questions Answered

While having one main car insurance provider (ICBC) makes some things easy, understanding optional coverages, costs, claims processes, and driver's license requirements in BC can still be tricky. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about ICBC insurance in Smithers and across British Columbia.

Western Financial Group is a proud member of the Insurance Brokers Association of British Columbia.

What is No-Fault Insurance in British Columbia?

No-fault car insurance in British Columbia protects drivers by making sure they have automatic lifetime benefits for medical care, income replacement, and rehabilitation, no matter who was at fault in an accident. BC's no-fault insurance means that lawsuits for accidents are rare - injured parties cannot sue at-fault drivers for damages under this system, except when the accident was caused by a criminal act, like drunk driving. Also called the Enhanced Care system, this plan was introduced by ICBC on May 1st, 2021.

Benefits of the No-Fault Insurance System:

ICBC claims that this system has reduced insurance premiums by an average of 20%.
Provides medical and rehabilitation care for life, including home support, physiotherapy, reconstructive surgeries, and counselling.
If you're injured in a car accident in BC and cannot return to work, you can receive up to 90% of your net income, up to a set limit (about $109,000 per year) under no-fault insurance.
If you're not at fault in the accident, ICBC covers repairs to your vehicle. If you are determined to be at fault, you'll need optional collision coverage to repair your vehicle.

Can You Drive Without Car Insurance in Smithers, British Columbia?

No, driving without valid car insurance in Smithers is illegal and carries serious penalties. If you are caught operating a vehicle without insurance, you could face:

Fines of up to $598 for a first offense
A license suspension or additional fines for repeat offenses
Possible vehicle impoundment

To avoid these penalties, ensure that your ICBC auto insurance registration is active before driving around Smithers.

How to obtain car insurance in Canada?

What Does ICBC Roadside Plus Cover?

ICBC's Roadside Plus is an optional add-on that your Smithers Coast insurance broker can build into your ICBC package beyond the Basic Autoplan. ICBC Roadside Plus provides extra roadside assistance in case your car breaks down. Roadside Plus usually costs between $80-100 per year, depending on your vehicle type and location. It includes:

Roadside Assistance - Towing up to 160km per call, battery boost, flat tire change, lockout service, and even fuel delivery (you pay for the fuel)
Rental Car - Covers the cost of transportation while your vehicle is out of commission due to a collision or theft
Theft Deductive Waiver - Waives the standard deductible if your vehicle is stolen
Emergency Travel Expenses - If you're in an accident over 100km from home, you can claim up to $500 for food, lodging, and transportation
Destination Assistance - If you're in an accident and your car is undriveable, ICBC can pay up to $100 for a taxi to your destination
Lock Re-Keying - If your keys are lost or stolen, ICBC will cover the cost of their replacement up to $1,000

Can I Renew My ICBC Insurance Online?

Yes! Renewing your ICBC insurance online is easy. Just reach out to us today and we'll get your ICBC renewal processed on the same day. You can also talk to your broker about adding on the ICBC Roadside Plus package. ICBC also offers a "Skip the Line" digital service form for renewals to reduce in-person visits and streamline processes.

Can I Add a Driver to My ICBC Insurance Online?

Yes, no problem. Give us a call or visit our Smithers Coast location in person and we'll help you add a driver and make sure your ICBC insurance is up to date with any possible discounts applied.

How to Reduce the Cost of Car Insurance in Smithers, British Columbia

Looking for cheap car insurance in Smithers? Here are some ways to lower your ICBC auto insurance premiums:

Maintain a Clean Driving Record – For every year you go without an at-fault crash in Smithers, you automatically earn a discount on your Basic Autoplan. Discounts increase yearly, up to 43% off after 40 years of crash free driving!
Low Kilometre Discount – If you drive less than 5,000 km a year, you can get a 10% discount on your Basic Autoplan. You'll need to submit an odometer reading to qualify.
Install Anti-Theft and Safety Technology – Vehicles with approved security systems and crash avoidance tech (like automatic emergency braking) may qualify for a 10% discount on optional coverage.
List All Regular Drivers – Make sure you've listed all the usual drivers of the vehicle. If an unlisted driver gets into an accident in your car, it can lead to higher premiums.
Choose the Right Vehicle – Cars with high safety ratings and low repair costs are generally cheaper to insure.

By applying these strategies, you can find affordable car insurance in Smithers without sacrificing coverage.

Does ICBC Cover Rental Cars in Smithers?

Yes, ICBC can cover rental cars in Smithers, but it's going to depend on the situation and the optional coverages you've chosen. It's usually worth it to select optional coverages in advance, before you need them.

For example, if your car is in the shop after an accident, ICBC's Roadside Plus or Loss of Use coverages will pay for a rental car to get around Smithers until your car is back in working order. However, this benefit isn't included in the Basic Autoplan, so check with your insurance broker to make sure you've opted in to additional coverage.

If you're going on a business trip or a road trip through some of BC's epic landscapes and choose to rent a car, you'll want Rental Vehicle Coverage (an optional ICBC add-on) to cover any potential damage to the rental car, theft or vandalism, and third-party liability. Rental Vehicle Coverage usually costs about $10-15 per day for a basic vehicle in Smithers. You could also opt to buy insurance coverage directly from the car rental company, but this is usually more expensive. Talk to an insurance broker today about adding Rental Vehicle Coverage directly to your ICBC plan for future use.

Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage in Smithers, British Columbia

Basic Autoplan Insurance

This is the standard ICBC coverage that applies to all BC drivers. The goal of the Basic Autoplan is to reduce the cost of car insurance in Smithers, British Columbia, and to ensure that everyone in the province is protected with a basic level of car insurance coverage. It protects drivers and pedestrians in the event of a car accident by making sure that they have Enhanced Accident Benefits, which include medical benefits and work income replacement.

See ICBC's Full Guide to the Basic Autoplan

Basic Vehicle Damage Coverage

If you're in an accident under the Basic Autoplan and you're not at fault, repairs for your vehicle are covered up to $200,000. Instead of pulling the cost of repairs from the other driver's insurance, ICBC will cover you directly.

If you are at fault, your optional Collision coverage add-on will pay for the repairs to your vehicle.

Important: If you don't opt for Collision coverage, you will be responsible for your vehicle's repairs in an accident you caused.

Third Party Liability in Smithers

Your Basic Autoplan includes $200,000 in Third Party Liability (TPL) coverage. This coverage will protect you when you're driving out-of-province or when non-vehicle property (like a fence or home) is damaged in an accident. Talk to your insurance broker about Extended Third Party Liability coverage, which is an optional Autoplan add-on.

Optional Auto Insurance Coverage in Smithers – Enhance Your ICBC Protection

To safeguard against additional risks, drivers in Smithers can opt for optional insurance coverages. When considering optional coverages, think about your own personal driving habits - do you often drive out of province? Do you rent cars often? Do you often have other drivers borrowing your vehicle? Our insurance brokers can help you understand your options and make sure any potential discounts have been applied.

Unlisted Driver Protection (UDP)

Add this onto your Basic Autoplan to protect yourself against a one-time financial consequence if an unlisted driver crashes your car. You'll want to list any regular drivers of your vehicle, but this add-on will protect you financially if an unlisted friend or family member borrows your car and has an accident.

Collision Coverage

Cover vehicle repair costs, even if you're at fault in the accident. This coverage also extends to vehicle damage caused by an unidentified driver (a hit and run). If you have a strong history of at-fault collisions, you may not be able to apply for this coverage.

Hit & Run Coverage

Specific to hit & runs, this coverage covers up to $200,000 of repair costs. If you don't have either collision coverage or hit & run coverage, you will be responsible for repair costs. That said, if you're physically injured in a hit & run, you are covered for all medical and rehabilitation care under Enhanced Accident Benefits, which is a part of the Basic Autoplan.

Income Top-Up Coverage

If you live in Smithers, BC, and earn more than $113,000 gross income, you can buy additional optional coverage to top up the basic income replacement benefit that comes with the standard Enhanced Accident Benefits in your Basic Autoplan. Your employer may already provide income replacement coverage, so be sure to check with them directly before adding this benefit to your ICBC plan.

Compare Optional Car Insurance Coverages

What is the average cost of car insurance in Smithers, British Columbia?

The annual cost of car insurance in British Columbia depends on the add-ons you choose to supplement coverage from the Basic ICBC Autoplan.

Each ICBC policy has a base premium, which was $1,063 in 2023. This premium can increase or decrease depending on your vehicle type, driving history, and whether any discounts apply (low-kilometre usage, autonomous emergency braking tech discount, disability, or experienced driver discounts, for example).

Western's Insurance Brokers can help you get an accurate ICBC plan estimate, compare optional coverages, and apply any possible discounts to your ICBC plan. Let us help you get the best possible rates and the coverage you need!

Drivers in Smithers are also asking:

How do I check my ICBC points?

Your ICBC driving record points include your Driver's Licence Status and driving violations. To check them online or by phone, try any of the following options, or go into your nearest Driver Services Centre to ask in person:

1. Online (MyICBC Account)

Step 1: Visit the ICBC website: www.icbc.com.
Step 2: Sign in to your MyICBC account. You may need to create an account if you don't already have one.
Step 3: Once logged in, check your driving history and status, including any demerit points.

2. ICBC Driver's Licence Status Check (Online)

Step 1: Go to the ICBC Driver's Licence Status page: ICBC Driver's Licence Status.
Step 2: Request a driver’s abstract online, which provides your full driving history, including your points.

3. By Phone (Call ICBC)

You can call ICBC at 1-800-950-1498 for general inquiries. They will ask for your driver's licence number and personal information to verify your identity before providing your driving record details.

How many mistakes are allowed on the ICBC road test?

It depends on how serious the mistakes are, as you might imagine! Minor mistakes are things like slightly incorrect positioning, not using signals early enough, or making small lapses in observation. According to ICBC, you can make up to 10 minor mistakes and still pass your road test. On the other hand, major mistakes include things like running a red light, failing to stop at a stop sign, not yielding the right of way when required, or creating a dangerous situation. A major mistake could mean the immediate end of the road test and an automatic fail.

Remember, the examiner is looking to see if you generally follow the best driving practices and rules of the road. Focus on being able to safely, calmly, and confidently handle the vehicle and you will pass with flying colours.

Practice makes perfect, so take your time and do your best! You've got this.

How to pass the ICBC road test

Passing the ICBC road test requires both knowledge and practical skills. The test evaluates your knowledge of road laws and your ability to drive safely and confidently. It usually lasts up to an hour, including the pre-trip check, drive time, and basic skill assessments. You'll probably be asked to change lanes, signal, handle intersections, follow road signs, and park. Use your best defensive driving practices the whole time to avoid making any minor mistakes, and don't cut any corners - always stop entirely at red lights or stop signs, check your blind spots, watch for pedestrians, and most importantly, stay calm and focused.

Can you insure a car without a license in BC?

In British Columbia, you cannot insure a car without having a valid driver's license.

When you purchase insurance through ICBC (the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia), one of the key requirements is that the primary policyholder must have a valid driver's license. This is because the insurance is based on the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely and legally.

You can still own a car without having a driver's license, but only a license holder can insure the vehicle.

If you don't currently have a license but are planning on driving your new car after getting one, you can potentially arrange temporary insurance with the help of someone who holds a valid driver's license, though you'd need to add them as a secondary driver. Ask one of our insurance experts for help with this.

How to cancel car insurance in British Columbia

Don't worry, cancelling your car insurance in British Columbia (BC) is a fairly straightforward process, but an insurance expert is always there to help if you want to avoid any extra charges or stay covered if you still plan to drive.

Step 1: Contact ICBC. Simply call ICBC (or any private insurer for car insurance add-ons) and let them know that you want to cancel the policy. They can walk you through the next steps. You can also cancel online through your ICBC account, if you have an online profile set up, or visit an ICBC office in person to handle the cancellation and return your plates.

Step 2: Provide any required information. Be ready to provide your policy number, your personal information (date of birth, etc.), the reason for cancellation, and the date you want the cancellation to go into effect.

Step 3: Return your license plates. This isn't always a required step, but if you are canceling your insurance because you’re selling the vehicle or no longer need it insured, you'll need to return the license plates to ICBC.

Step 4: Request a refund. If you're cancelling mid-term, you may be able to get a refund on the unused portion of the term. You can request this over the phone with ICBC when handling the cancellation.

How do I report an accident to ICBC?

After making sure everyone is safe or has received medical care, you can start gathering the information you'll need to report the accident to ICBC. Reporting accidents is your legal obligation in BC, so always be sure to go through with this process.

Gather Information

Exchange details with other parties involved in the accident (drivers, passengers, and witnesses). You'll need:

Names, addresses, and contact details of all drivers involved.
License plate numbers and driver's license numbers.
Insurance policy numbers for other drivers.
Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and license plates (if safe to do so).
Police report number (if the police were involved in the accident).

Contact ICBC

There are a few ways to do this. You can call ICBC's Claims Centre at 1-800-910-4222, available 24/7, to report the accident and get advice on the next steps. If the accident is minor (i.e., no injuries, only vehicle damage), you can report it online through the ICBC website, or visit an ICBC Claims Centre in person to report the accident and start your claim.

How do I make a claim for ICBC?

To make a claim, you can call ICBC's Claims Centre at 1-800-910-4222, available 24/7, to report any accidents, theft, or damages to the vehicle. If the claim is minor (i.e., no injuries, only vehicle damage), you can report it online through the ICBC website, or visit an ICBC Claims Centre in person to report the issue and start your claim.

How much is car insurance for new drivers in BC?

In British Columbia, car insurance for new drivers is usually higher compared to more experienced drivers. ICBC offers discounts for experience drivers who have a good track record of safe driving.

On average, new drivers (especially those in the age range of 16 to 25) can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000 per year for basic car insurance coverage in BC, though it really varies depending on several factors. Our insurance experts can help you get exactly the right coverage at the best possible price through ICBC and private car insurance providers.

To lower your rates, take a defensive driving course and to get a discount through ICBC.

Can you get private car insurance in BC?

In British Columbia (BC), car insurance is primarily provided by ICBC (Insurance Corporation of British Columbia), which is a government-owned corporation that offers mandatory basic insurance coverage to all drivers. That said, while ICBC is BC's provider of basic car insurance, there are add-on optional coverages available through private insurance companies in BC.

Is there tax on car insurance in BC?

ICBC's basic insurance coverage (which is mandatory by law for all vehicles) is not subject to GST or PST. So when you pay for your basic car insurance with ICBC, you won't be charged any additional sales tax.

That said, optional insurance coverage (such as comprehensive, collision, or extended liability) from private insurers is subject to 8% PST (Provincial Sales Tax) in BC.

So, while ICBC's mandatory basic insurance is tax-free, optional coverage purchased through private insurers is subject to PST.

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Don't Fall For These Car Insurance Myths

Does the Color of My Car Affect Insurance Rates?

Reality: The color of your car has no impact on your ICBC premiums in Smithers. Insurers determine rates based on factors such as the vehicle’s make, model, age, safety features, and your driving history. Whether your car is red, black, or white, your premium remains the same.

Do I Need Car Insurance If I Don't Drive Often?

Reality: Yes, even if you drive infrequently, you'll need an ICBC Autoplan. Unexpected situations, such as theft, vandalism, or accidents while borrowing a car, can still occur. Keeping a valid insurance policy is mandatory in British Columbia.

Does Getting a Speeding Ticket Mean I Have To Pay More For My Car Insurnce?

Reality: No, your auto insurance rates won't automatically increase if you get a speeding ticket. That said, if you build up 4 or more driver penalty points over the course of a year, ICBC will send you a Driver Penalty Point (DPP) bill. If you don't pay this bill, your Basic Autoplan coverage can be terminated and you won't be able to renew your driver's license in BC.

Will I Be Charged Higher Premiums For Being In The Military?

Reality: No, not at all. No matter what branch of the military you're in or what rank you hold, you do not need to pay more than a regular civilian would. ICBC takes into account your age, driving history, and the kind of car you drive, but your employment will not affect your premiums.

Does My Credit Score Affect My Car Insurance?

Reality: ICBC does not use credit ratings in order to avoid discriminating against anyone with a poor credit score. Instead, ICBC looks at your location, car type, and driving record when factoring your car insurance premiums.

Do Young Drivers Have Access To Any ICBC Discounts?

Reality: Yes, younger drivers can still get ICBC discounts for low kilometres or good driving history. Young drivers can also take a defensive driving course for a discount of up to 5% from ICBC.

If I Don't Claim My Accident, My Premium Won't Increase, Right?

Reality: If you are involved in a car accident in British Columbia, you are legally obligated to report it to ICBC, whether you are at fault or not.

If Someone Crashes My Car, Does It Go On My Record?

Reality: No, at-fault collisions will affect the driving record of the driver who caused the collision, not the owner of the car. That said, if you haven't opted into Unlisted Driver Protection, you will be required to pay a one-time higher premium if the driver who caused the accident wasn't listed on your insurance while driving the car.

Do I Have To Pay A Premium For Hybrid or Electric Cars?

Reality: An electric or hybrid car won't automatically have a higher premium than other vehicles. ICBC recognizes that hybrid and electric cars generally have better safety ratings and accident-preventative technology on board. However, other factors can still increase the premium. We can help you to understand the factors that could affect your specific car's premium and help you to get a good estimate for your ICBC premiums.

Save more when you bundle your home insurance and optional BC car insurance add-ons.

If you choose optional car insurance add-ons from private insurers in British Columbia, you may be able to bundle these policies with your home insurance for extra savings. This is an easy way to cut costs without cutting coverage!

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