Auto Insurance

Use of Private Automobile for University Business

The University does not provide insurance for the use of private automobiles on University business. If a private automobile is used on approved University business, it is recommended that there be a minimum of $1,000,000 third party liability insurance on the private automobile's insurance policy.  In the event of a claim, the owner of the private automobile will be required to approach his/her own insurer for reimbursement of expenses.

Fleet Insurance Coverage

The University's insurance policy for its owned or fleet vehicles provides $5,000,000 in third-party liability coverage, as well as collision and comprehensive coverage for models three years old or newer.  Damage to older models is covered by the University's self-insurance program.  In the event of a claim involving private passenger and light commercial vehicles, a $1,000 all perils deductible applies which is covered by the University's self-insurance program.

Vehicles rented/leased for periods exceeding 30 days qualify for fleet insurance coverage — to arrange for coverage, please contact the Insurance Unit of Human Resources at (613) 533-2070.

Queen's Insurance Coverage on Vehicles Rented for University Business

Within North America

In addition to liability coverage, the University carries coverage for collision and comprehensive perils up to $50,000 Unless the rental agency insists on more coverage, it should not be necessary to purchase additional insurance. In the event of a claim, a $1,000 all perils deductible applies involving private passenger and light commercial vehicles which is covered by the University's self-insurance program.

Notes:

i) collision and comprehensive perils coverage should be purchased from the rental agency if the rental vehicle will also be used for reasons unrelated to university business, or if the vehicle will be also driven by individuals who are not affiliated with the university.

ii) it is not necessary to purchases third party liability insurance on rental cars. The rental agency is required by law to carry this insurance and the cost is included in the rental rate (the University's liability coverage is in excess of that carried by the rental agency).

iii) all drivers, whether employees or not, should be listed on the rental contract. On many rental agreements, only those named on the contract are covered by insurance. Read all agreements carefully.

iv) Insurance coverage applies only to rentals of less than 30 days. If vehicles are to be leased for periods greater than 30 days, contact the Insurance Unit of Human Resources at (613) 533-2070 to arrange for appropriate coverage.

v) Report all accidents immediately to the the Insurance Unit of Human Resources at (613) 533-2070.

Outside of North America

While the University has both liability and physical damage insurance coverage for vehicles rented outside of North America, this insurance is considered to be excess coverage. Moreover, in many foreign jurisdictions purchasing insurance from the rental agency may be mandatory; therefore, it is recommended that collision/comprehensive perils coverage should be obtained when renting the vehicle (please note: this kind of coverage may be provided through the use of a gold or platinum credit card -- please check with the card company to determine what insurance, if any, is provided if the rental is paid for through the credit card).