Core Coverage Levels Offered by Root in Canada
Root Insurance provides three primary coverage tiers: liability only, standard (which adds collision and comprehensive), and full protection that includes accident benefits and uninsured motorist coverage. Liability coverage meets the minimum legal requirements in each province, protecting you against third‑party bodily injury and property damage claims. The standard tier adds protection for damage to your own vehicle from collisions, theft, fire, or natural events. Full protection expands this further with medical expense coverage, rental reimbursement, and coverage for drivers without insurance.
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Optional Add‑Ons and Enhancements
Beyond the core tiers, Root allows drivers to customize policies with optional add‑ons such as:
- Roadside assistance – towing, lockout service, and emergency fuel delivery.
- Ride‑share coverage – extra protection when using platforms like Uber or Lyft.
- Gap insurance – covers the difference between a vehicle's actual cash value and the remaining loan balance after a total loss.
- Accident forgiveness – prevents a premium increase after the first at‑fault accident.
These options are priced per driver and can be toggled through the app, giving flexibility to match individual risk profiles.
Provincial Variations and Minimum Requirements
Canada's provinces set different minimum liability limits. For example, Ontario requires a minimum of $200,000 for bodily injury per person, $400,000 per accident, and $50,000 for property damage, while British Columbia's mandatory coverage is provided through ICBC and Root's offerings act as supplemental private insurance. When selecting a Root policy, verify that the liability limits meet or exceed provincial mandates; otherwise, you may need to purchase additional coverage to stay compliant.
How Root Determines Premiums
Root's pricing model relies on telematics data collected via a mobile app. The algorithm evaluates driving behavior—speed, braking, acceleration, time of day, and distance traveled—to assign a risk score. Safer drivers typically see lower premiums, while higher‑risk patterns result in higher rates. Premiums are recalculated every six months, and drivers can improve their scores by adopting defensive driving habits, reducing night‑time mileage, and maintaining a clean record.
Comparing Coverage Across Providers
| Feature | Root Standard | Traditional Insurer |
|---|---|---|
| Liability Limits | Provincial minimum or higher (customizable) | Fixed tiers, often higher baseline |
| Collision/Comprehensive | Included in standard tier | Often separate deductible options |
| Telematics Pricing | Behavior‑based, app‑driven | Mostly demographic‑based |
| Add‑On Flexibility | Toggle via app per driver | Limited, often bundled |
Key Considerations When Choosing Root Coverage
Evaluate your driving habits, vehicle value, and provincial requirements before selecting a tier. If you own a newer car, full protection may be cost‑effective because collision and comprehensive coverage reduce out‑of‑pocket repair costs. For older, low‑value vehicles, liability only might be sufficient. Also, factor in the potential savings from Root's telematics model; drivers who consistently stay within speed limits and avoid harsh braking can see significant discounts compared with traditional rating systems.
Steps to Purchase and Maintain a Root Policy
1. Download the Root app and complete the registration process.2. Allow the app to access GPS and motion data for the telematics assessment.3. Choose a coverage tier and any optional add‑ons.4. Review the quoted premium, which reflects your driving score.5. Confirm purchase, receive digital proof of insurance, and keep the app active for ongoing monitoring.
Maintaining an active policy requires keeping the app installed, granting location permissions, and adhering to safe driving practices. If you switch vehicles or move provinces, update the profile promptly to ensure coverage remains appropriate.