Industrial Alliance launches telematics program for young drivers
Drivers aged 16 to 24 represent just 10 percent of drivers license holders in Quebec, but in 2010 they were involved in 24 percent of the accidents that resulted in bodily injuries. In 2009, drivers in this age group committed 49 percent of all speeding or reckless driving offences in the province. And, their driving behaviour can often be deadly; speed was cited as a factor in 52 percent of fatal automobile accidents involving drivers aged 16 to 24.
Industrial Alliance, Insurance and Financial Services Inc. says its newly-launched Mobiliz program can help improve driver behaviour while also tailoring the driver’s insurance premium to their driving habits. The insurer says the better the driver drives, the lower their insurance premium can be.
“Mobiliz will enable youths who drive responsibly, but [are] frustrated with their high premiums simply because they are young, to benefit from the lowest rates in the industry. As for youths who currently have extreme driving habits, Mobiliz will offer them the necessary financial incentives so that they can adopt more responsible driving habits,” said Michel Laurin, President and CEO of operations at Industrial Alliance Operations, Auto and Home Insurance in a statement.
Mobiliz employs telematics technology, using an installed device to monitor distance traveled as well as speeding, forced accelerations and hard brakings. The telematics device also monitors the location and the time that the actions occurred. Insureds can access their data through an online web portal and will receive a weekly report that outlines their behaviour and the impact their driving has on their monthly bill.
Industrial Alliance said the basic premium in the Mobiliz program is based on age, gender, postal code and the insured vehicle. The premium will vary each month to reflect real kilometres driven and the behind-the-wheel actions of the driver.
“For us, Mobiliz is first and foremost a cause,” said Industrial Alliance President and CEO Yvon Charest. “By this initiative, we wish to actively take part in solving a societal issue and save lives by way of what we do and know best, that is, insurance. If Mobiliz generates operating profits, these will be reinvested in the cause on the basis of a continuous improvement procedure where the program shall adjust to the needs and expectations expressed by the youths themselves”.
Mobiliz is available only in Quebec.
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