Do I need insurance for my seasonal vehicle?
Snowmobilers across Canada have been waiting for the white stuff, and many will soon get their wish.
But having the proper insurance is part of being able to have worry-free fun.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada recommends for seasonal vehicles, such as snowmobiles, you should consider having comprehensive coverage year round. This protects your vehicle against risks like theft, fire, vandalism, wind and other types of damage while it is in storage.
When your seasonal and/or off-road vehicle is in use, it needs to have mandatory insurance coverage, which is set out by the province or territory in which you live. This typically includes coverage for third party liability, direct compensation property damage and accident benefits. You can also opt for coverages like collision, specified perils, comprehensive and all perils coverage which are very similar across Canada, IBC states.
However, if you only use your seasonal vehicle on private property, you are not required to have third-party liability coverage.
Depending on your insurer, you can usually add season vehicles such as snowmobiles, ATVs and certain trailers to your auto policy. Pleasure craft can also be added to home insurance policies. Speak to your broker to find the best fit for you.
In addition to mandatory insurance, each province/territory sets requirements for seasonal vehicles.
Since it’s winter and snowmobilers will soon be out on the trails, let’s take a look at some of the rules and regulations for Ontario sledders. (You can find the ones for ATVs here).
What you need to drive a snowmobile in Ontario
Anyone can drive a snowmobile on their own property. Otherwise, the Ontario Ministry of Transportation states you can drive a snowmobile if:
- You have a valid Ontario driver’s licence (any class).
- If you don’t have a driver’s licence and are 12 years of age or older, a valid motorized snow-vehicle operator’s licence (MSVOL) allows you to drive on recreational trails. An MSVOL is issued by the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs. You must successfully pass a snowmobile driver-training course to get a licence.
- If you are 16 years of age or older and have a driver’s licence or a MSVOL (not both) you can drive a snowmobile along or across a public road where they are allowed.
- If you’re visiting Ontario, you must have valid licence that allows you to drive a snowmobile from your home province/territory, state or country.
You must also carry your driver’s licence or snow-vehicle operator’s licence when driving anywhere other than on your own property. You must show it when asked by a police or conservation officer. If your driver’s licence or snow-vehicle operator’s licence has been suspended, you can’t drive any type of vehicle on or off any roads or in any public place.
Registering your snowmobile
Before driving a snowmobile, it must be registered with the Ministry of Transportation through a ServiceOntario centre. This applies to new or used snowmobiles that have never been registered, and snowmobiles previously registered in another jurisdiction. If you buy a new snowmobile, your dealer must register it within six days of the sale.
If you buy a used snowmobile that has been previously registered, you need the signed snow-vehicle permit and bill of sale to transfer the registration into your name.
The owner must pay a one-time fee to register their snowmobile and will be given a permit and a registration number decal to display on the sled. Unless you are driving your registered snowmobile on your own property or are an exempt resident of northern Ontario, you must have a validation sticker on your registration decal. You must carry your driver’s licence or MSVO and evidence of your vehicle’s registration at all times. There is an annual fee to renew the sticker.
Insuring your snowmobile
If you’re going to drive your snowmobile off your own property you must have liability insurance. You must carry the insurance card given to you by your insurer at all times. If someone else uses your sled with your consent, you are both responsible for any penalties, damages or injuries that may occur. A very important thing to remember is that your driving record affects you snowmobile insurance and vice versa.
Premiums can start at a few hundred dollars a year and can cost over $1,000 for some sledders. Speak with your broker to get the best deal. Remember that if you pay your premium monthly you can’t cancel it to save money in the summer. You will still owe the money for the policy’s term.
Only riders over 16 with a valid driver’s licence can purchase snowmobile insurance in Ontario. Children over 12 with a MSVOL, however, can be added to an existing snowmobile policy.
Am I required to wear a helmet?
While you can ride without a helmet on your own property, it’s not safe. On common trails, they are the law. A ticket for riding without one is equivalent to a speeding ticket in Ontario. If you are convicted, it will affect your snowmobile and auto insurance premiums.