Allstate's usage-based auto insurance program expanding to Nova Scotia

Nova Scotian drivers will soon have the opportunity to take part in a new-age insurance program that has already proven successful in both Ontario and Alberta.

Allstate Canada is expanding Drivewise, its Usage-Based Insurance (UBI) program that utilizes telematics technology to gain insights into driver habits. Should customers demonstrate safe driving behaviour, then they will be eligible for discounts on their premiums.

Safe driving behaviour refers to things like speed, braking habits, amount driven, and time of day that driving takes place. Tracking these sorts of statistics is something that carries benefits for both the driver and the company.

"Usage-Based Insurance offers users the potential of reduced rates while also giving them the opportunity to learn more about their driving habits, as well as the behaviours of others who drive their vehicle," said Allstate Canada vice-president of product operations David MacInnis. "We hope programs such as this, that reward drivers for good driving behaviour, will help make our roadways safer, while reducing insurance costs."

All that drivers need to do to qualify for discounts is demonstrate safe behaviour during a six-month tracking period. That discount could be as high as 30 per cent—and there is no corresponding penalty.

"We desgined Drivewise so that a customer's premium will go down if they are shown to be a safe driver. We pride ourselves on offering the highest savings potentials in the industry, while also ensuring that if a Drivewise customer doesn't qualify for a discount, their premium won't increase as a result of participating in the program."