16/02/2015
- Aviva Car Insurance: A Comprehensive Review
- Understanding Aviva Insurance
- Aviva Car Insurance: Product Overview
- Financial Strength and Stability
- Types of Insurance Offered by Aviva
- Aviva Customer Service Ratings
- Available Discounts
- Aviva Car Insurance Rates Comparison
- Aviva Insurance vs. The Competition
- Best Alternatives to Aviva
- Our Expert Verdict
- People Also Ask
Aviva Car Insurance: A Comprehensive Review
When it comes to securing your vehicle against the unexpected, choosing the right car insurance provider is paramount. In Canada, Aviva Insurance has established itself as a significant player in the insurance market, offering a range of products designed to meet diverse driver needs. But how does Aviva stack up against its competitors, particularly when it comes to car insurance? This in-depth review will delve into Aviva's offerings, examining its financial stability, customer service reputation, available discounts, and overall value for money. We'll also compare it with other leading insurers to provide you with a clear picture of whether Aviva is the right choice for you.
Understanding Aviva Insurance
Aviva Canada Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the UK-based Aviva plc, was founded in 1999 and is headquartered in Markham, Ontario. It has rapidly grown to become one of Canada's leading providers across various insurance sectors, including home, auto, lifestyle, and business. Our investigation into Aviva's car insurance quality involved scrutinising expert and customer reviews, assessing its performance in key areas like customer service and financial stability, and evaluating its website for coverage details and discount programs. This comprehensive approach aims to equip you with the information needed to make an informed decision.
Aviva Car Insurance: Product Overview
Aviva Canada Inc. specialises in providing affordable car insurance across Canada and is recognised for its solid financial standing. The company offers several features that are particularly beneficial to consumers:
Claims Service Satisfaction Guarantee
One of Aviva's standout features is its Claims Service Satisfaction Guarantee. This unique offering promises to refund an amount equivalent to your yearly premium if you are not satisfied with their claims process. The process for filing a claim with Aviva is designed to be straightforward and efficient. You can contact Aviva Car Insurance by calling their dedicated number, 1-866-692-8482, or by reaching out to your insurance broker. Alternatively, claims can be initiated online via a form on their website or through the Aviva Express Plus mobile app.
In the event of an accident, Aviva assists you in getting back on the road swiftly by directing you to their network of premium auto repair centres. These centres have been carefully selected by Aviva for their quality workmanship. You can easily locate a nearby repair shop using Aviva's website, searchable by your postcode or city. Furthermore, Aviva provides an Auto Lifetime Guarantee on repairs carried out at these Premier Network Auto Repair Centres, ensuring the quality of work meets industry standards.
MyAviva Online Portal
For customers in Ontario, MyAviva is a convenient online tool that grants access to all your policies, including home and car insurance. It also allows for easy updates to your contact information from any location, at any time. The Aviva website is user-friendly and visually appealing, making it simple to find information and obtain online quotes. The Aviva Express Plus mobile app, available on the App Store, further enhances convenience by enabling claim filing and providing instant repair estimates.
Signature Feature: Lyft Ride-Sharing Insurance
Aviva distinguishes itself by offering specialised Lyft ride-sharing insurance in Ontario. This coverage is invaluable for individuals using their personal vehicles for Lyft services. Aviva's ride-sharing insurance provides protection from the moment you log into the Lyft app until your last passenger is dropped off. Crucially, this coverage ensures you are protected at all times, bridging the gap between your personal car insurance policy and Aviva's commercial policy for Lyft drivers.
Financial Strength and Stability
Aviva Car Insurance has received an "A" or "Excellent" rating from A. M. Best, the third-highest rating they offer. This strong financial rating indicates that Aviva is a reliable insurer, capable of meeting its financial obligations, including paying claims, without undue delay or excuse. This is a critical factor for any policyholder, offering peace of mind that your insurer is financially sound.
Types of Insurance Offered by Aviva
Aviva provides all the standard coverages expected in the Canadian auto insurance landscape. These include:
- Third-Party Liability Coverage: Protects you if you are at fault in an accident and cause injury or property damage to others.
- Direct Compensation – Property Damage (DPCD): Covers damage to your vehicle and its contents if another party is responsible for the accident.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Provides protection if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or cannot be identified.
- Accident Insurance Coverage: This can refer to various forms of coverage related to accidents, often including benefits for accidental death or dismemberment.
In addition to these standard coverages, Aviva Car Insurance in Canada offers a range of optional coverages to enhance your policy:
Optional Coverages
- Temporary Vehicle Replacement: This coverage helps pay for a rental car if your vehicle is undrivable due to a covered accident.
- Collision Protection: Covers damage to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault, or if your car rolls over.
- Conviction Protection: An add-on that prevents your premium from increasing due to minor driving convictions, such as a speeding ticket.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Protects your vehicle against damages not caused by collisions, such as theft, vandalism, falling objects, or severe weather events like a tree falling on your car.
- Disappearing Deductible: With this feature, your deductible is reduced by a set amount for each year you do not file a claim, rewarding safe driving.
- Accident Forgiveness: This popular add-on ensures that your car insurance premium will not increase following your first at-fault accident.
Aviva Customer Service Ratings
While Aviva offers robust financial backing and appealing features, its customer service record presents a mixed picture. Aviva ranked last in J.D. Power's 2019 Overall Satisfaction Study for Canada, which surveyed 13 auto insurers. This places it below many competitors in terms of overall customer satisfaction. However, it does hold a respectable "B" rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), indicating a fair ability to handle customer disputes. Online reviews on platforms like InsurEye often reflect negative customer service experiences, with many customers citing poor service as a primary complaint. While it's true that dissatisfied customers are often more vocal online, the consistent negative feedback suggests an area where Aviva could significantly improve. For those who prioritise top-notch customer service, exploring other options might be advisable.
Available Discounts
Aviva offers several discounts to help reduce your insurance premiums, although the variety may not be as extensive as some competitors. It's advisable to speak with a broker to understand the exact savings associated with each discount, as Aviva's website does not always quantify these savings:
| Discount Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Retiree Discount | Available for retired individuals, making car insurance more affordable. |
| Bundle Discount | Offered when you combine Aviva home and auto insurance policies, providing savings on both. |
| Multiple-Vehicle Discount | A common discount for insuring two or more vehicles with Aviva, leading to lower premiums. |
| Clean Driving Record Discount | Rewards drivers who maintain a claim-free history and avoid driving convictions. |
Aviva Car Insurance Rates Comparison
Aviva prominently advertises potential savings on its website. To verify this claim, a quote was obtained for a 40-year-old single male with a clean driving record, driving a 2018 Honda Civic Sedan SE approximately 15,000 km per year in Ottawa, Ontario. The resulting quote of $104 per month was found to be the lowest among several insurers in the city, indicating that Aviva can indeed offer competitive rates.
Aviva Insurance vs. The Competition
Aviva vs. Intact
Aviva generally presents a more affordable option than Intact across Canada. However, Intact demonstrates a superior customer service record, ranking higher in the J.D. Power 2019 study. Aviva's financial strength rating from A. M. Best is "A", while Intact holds an "A+". Both insurers offer ride-sharing coverage, with Aviva covering Lyft drivers and Intact covering Uber drivers. Aviva is a better choice for budget-conscious drivers and Lyft users, while Intact is suitable for Uber drivers and those prioritising superior financial strength.
Aviva vs. TD Insurance
Both Aviva and TD Insurance are considered affordable options, with pricing varying by location. While Aviva may be more expensive in Toronto, it can be more cost-effective in Ottawa. TD Insurance generally fares better in customer service, earning a higher rating in the J.D. Power study. Aviva, however, offers more distinctive policy add-ons, including the Claims Service Satisfaction Guarantee. For areas where Aviva is cheaper, it is recommended over TD Insurance, despite the customer service disparity.
Aviva vs. The Co-operators
The contrast in customer service between Aviva and The Co-operators is significant, with The Co-operators topping the J.D. Power study while Aviva came last. Aviva is typically more cost-effective and holds a slightly better financial strength rating ("A" from A. M. Best compared to "A-" for The Co-operators). If Aviva's customer service is not a primary concern and it offers better rates in your area, it could be a viable option, especially for Lyft drivers. Otherwise, The Co-operators is generally the preferred choice.
Best Alternatives to Aviva
If Aviva's customer service is a significant concern, consider The Co-Operators or RBC Insurance. Be aware that these alternatives might be slightly more expensive. TD Insurance offers competitive rates but with only marginally better customer service than Aviva. For those seeking excellent online tools, Sonnet is a strong contender. Ultimately, obtaining quotes from various providers, including Aviva, is the most effective way to determine the best value for your specific needs.
Our Expert Verdict
Aviva Insurance presents an attractive proposition for consumers seeking budget-friendly car insurance, bolstered by strong financial health and specialised coverage like its Lyft ride-sharing insurance. However, its significant shortcomings in customer service cannot be overlooked and prevent a universal recommendation. Nevertheless, if affordability or specific coverage needs, such as for Lyft drivers, are your priority, Aviva is certainly worth considering. It is always recommended to get a quote and compare it with other insurers to ensure you are getting the best possible deal.
People Also Ask
How do I contact Aviva Insurance?
For general inquiries, you can reach Aviva Car Insurance at 1-800-387-4518, Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. To file a claim, you can call 1-866-692-8482 24/7, or initiate the process online via their website or the Aviva mobile app.
Is RBC insurance Aviva?
In 2016, Aviva Canada Inc. acquired RBC General Insurance Company. This strategic agreement, lasting 15 years, allows Aviva to handle policy administration and claims for RBC Insurance customers, granting them access to Aviva's property and casualty products.
Why should I insure with Aviva Signature?
Aviva aims to share its expertise with customers through various guides and tips within its knowledge centres. These resources are designed to provide insights into their offerings, the reasons behind them, and how to obtain coverage.
If you want to read more articles similar to Aviva Car Insurance: A Comprehensive Review, you can visit the Automotive category.