Quebec broker group says support for telematics programs conditional

A group representing brokers in Quebec has issued a statement saying it is behind usage-based auto insurance programs, as long as they are voluntary.

The note from the Regroupement des cabinets de courtage d’assurance du Québec (RCCAQ) comes as insurers are launching or expanding UBI programs, including Desjardins’ Ajusto program and Industrial Alliance’s Mobiliz.

“A number of analysts believe that 10-30% of auto insurance policies inCanada will be based on and priced according to telematics by 2017. Worldwide, 60% of vehicles will be connected. This market requires a good deal of vigilance and a pro-consumer commitment,” RCCAQ chairman Jean Bilodeau said in its statement Thursday.

The RCCAQ represents 4,200 brokers in 615 firms and branch offices around the province.

However, the group’s support for telematics programs is conditional.

“Among other things, telematics must essentially remain a ‘voluntary option’ for consumers, whose support must be based on informed consent,” the organization says.

“In addition, telematics data must belong to consumers, not to insurers. Insurers must also make UBAI data available so consumers can ‘export’ it if they wish to obtain a quote or enter into a contract with another insurer.”

Overall, the RCCAQ said it will continue to push for the provincial financial regulator, the Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) to establish a legal framework governing the ownership and use of telematics data.