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Clarifying Ontario’s Winter Tire Discount

Posted Dec 21st, 2015 in Auto Insurance, Did You Know?, General, Media

Ontario drivers are confused by the winter tire discount; many are unsure of the reduction available and what exactly constitutes a winter tire. To ease your concerns we have clarified what is involved and how it affects you!


In an effort to inform our Ontario clients, we have outlined the two major questions surrounding the winter tire discount for your reference. The anticipation for the January 1, 2016 winter tire rate reduction has many Ontario residents perplexed, as there have been many conflicting statements and definitions shared. Mainly, it appears the confusion is surrounding the definition of a winter tire and when Ontarians are eligible to receive this discount.

In an effort to inform our Ontario clients, we have outlined the two major questions surrounding the winter tire discount for your reference.

When Can I Receive the Discount?  

Many Ontario residents are wondering if they are eligible for the winter tire discount if their insurance renews before January 1, 2016. The answer is most likely. We have found that most insurance companies are pro-rating clients insurance to ensure they receive the winter tire discount effect January 1 for the 2016 season. However, not all insurance companies will provide this.

The best way to find out is to contact your Ontario insurance broker and check. If you are not satisfied with your insurance provider we would be honoured to provide you with a no obligation quote!

What is a Winter Tire?

Ontario drivers are confused by the winter tire discount; many are unsure of the reduction available and what exactly constitutes a winter tireA winter or snow tire is something you put on in the fall and remove in the spring. An all-season tire does NOT qualify for the winter tire discount. However, some insurance companies will accept all-weather tires.  The challenge is some suggest that all-weather tires do not compare to winter tires in extremely low temperatures.

How can you figure out what type of tire you have? If your tire has a peaked mountain with a snowflake symbol on the sidewall of the tire then it categorizes as a winter tire. According to Transport Canada tires that include the peaked mountain with a snowflake symbol meet particular snow-traction requirements and therefore are eligible for the winter tire discount.

Regardless of the discount, having winter tires on your vehicle in the snowy season makes sense and provides peace of mind. Putting safety first should be our prerogative and anything that makes driving in the winter season safer is a good thing in our opinion.

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