More drivers on the road? Higher rates?

According to the city's Vision Zero Road Safety Plan , residents living in Etobicoke/York, North York, and Scarborough use their vehicles considerably more to get around, than those living in the city's core or East York. It's estimated that in Etobicoke/York, 70 per cent of residents use their vehicle to get around, and in North York and Scarborough 65 per cent do (versus taking public transit or cycling/walking.) In contrast, 32 per cent of residents living in the core or in East York regularly rely on their vehicle to get around. Most, 37 per cent, choose public transit or cycle/walk (31 per cent).

What affects your auto insurance rate?

Where you live has a direct impact on your rates. Some neighbourhoods may have higher levels of auto theft, while others may contain intersections that are more prone to collisions. As a result, insurance companies study statistical data on claims frequency (and severity), and if, collectively, an area is more likely to report claims this will be factored into a driver's rate.

In addition to where you live, your personal driving record and insurance history also have an impact, as does the type of vehicle you drive, your annual kilometres driven, your commute, and other variables such as the age and experience of any additional drivers on the policy.

Together, all of these factors go into determining your car insurance premium. However, no two insurers are the same, which is why drivers are encouraged to shop around for car insurance and compare rates. A better deal is often waiting around the next bend.