Mobile App & automerit FAQs
Program
What's automerit and how does it work? How does the automerit program work?
Available through the belairdirect app, automerit is a usage-based insurance program that rewards safe driving behaviour. Through your phone's sensors, the automerit program will assess how safe and how much you drive in order to calculate your potential discount. Get an enrolment discount simply for signing up, and if you drive safely, you could save up to 25% off your car insurance. The price of your car insurance will then be adjusted approximately every six months based on the driving choices you make. It's simple: the safer you drive, the more you could save.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM AFTER JULY 11TH, 2020
The automerit program lets you be in control of how much you pay for your car insurance. Available through our app, the program will assess how safely you drive through your phone’s GPS and motion sensors (accelerometer and gyroscope) to personalize your price. Your safe driving habits could help you save on your insurance, whereas drivers who take risks on the road could see their price increase. It’s simple: the safer you drive, the more you could save.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM BEFORE JULY 11TH, 2020
Available through the belairdirect app, automerit is belairdirect's usage-based insurance program that rewards safe driving behaviour and low annual kilometres. Through your smartphone's GPS, accelerometer, and gyroscope, the automerit program will assess how safely and how much you drive in order to calculate your potential discount. Approximately every 6 months, you could save up to 25% on your car insurance based on the driving choices you make. You could save up to 15% with a low kilometres discount based on the number of kilometres driven, and earn up to a 15% driving discount determined by your driving behaviour. The cost of your car insurance will then be adjusted approximately every 6 months based on the driving choices you make. It's simple: the safer you drive, the more you could save! And if you drive a little, you could save even more!
Available through the belairdirect app, automerit® is belairdirect's usage-based insurance program that is automatically included in your car insurance coverage. Through your smartphone's GPS, accelerometer, and gyroscope, the automerit program will assess how safely you drive in order to calculate your potential discount (up to 25%) or high-risk driving surcharge (up to 15%). The cost of your car insurance will increase or decrease approximately every 6 months based on the driving choices you make. It's simple: the safer you drive, the more you could save!
How do I join automerit?
Joining the automerit program is quick and easy! Simply contact us, or for more information visit www.belairdirect.com/automerit. A download link will be texted to you and each principal driver on your policy who has joined the program.* Once you activate your account, accept the Terms of use, and give the app access to certain features on your smartphone—you’re ready to start driving!
*If there’s more than one principal driver on the same policy enrolled in the automerit program, the download link will be texted to the phone number provided for each principal driver.
Joining the automerit program is quick and easy! Simply contact us, or for more information visit www.belairdirect.com/automerit. A download link will be texted to you and each principal driver on your policy who has joined the program.* Once you activate your account, accept the Terms of Use, and give the app access to certain features on your smartphone - you're ready to start driving!
*If there's more than one principal driver on the same policy enrolled in the automerit program, the download link will be texted to the phone number provided for each principal driver.
Joining the automerit program is quick and easy. It's automatically included in your car insurance coverage and a download link will be texted to you and each principal driver on your policy. Once you activate your account, accept the Terms of use, and give the app access to certain features on your smartphone—you're ready to start driving!
I'm already insured with belairdirect. Can I still join?
Yes! If you're the principal driver of an eligible car, contact us and we'll sign you up. However, if you choose to opt-in to the automerit program, withdrawal from the program will result in the cancellation of your car insurance coverage
What's an enrolment discount?What is an enrolment discount?
The enrolment discount is applied to the price of your car insurance when you first join the automerit program. This one-time discount is applicable over your first collection period of approximately six months. At the end of this collection period, you could save with a driving discount based on your driving behaviour.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM AFTER JULY 11TH, 2020
When you join the automerit program, you get a 10% enrolment discount just for signing up. This one-time discount is applicable over your first collection period of approximately six months. At the end of this collection period, the price of your car insurance could be adjusted based on how safely you drive.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM PRIOR TO JULY 11TH, 2020
The enrolment discount is applied to the cost of your car insurance when you first join the automerit program. This one-time discount is applicable over your first collection period of approximately 6 months. At the end of this collection period, you could save with a personalized driving discount based on your driving behaviour.
Can I withdraw from the program at any time?
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM AFTER JULY 11TH, 2020
Yes, you can withdraw from the program at any time. However, you will lose your 10% enrolment discount and the opportunity to drive down the price of your car insurance by driving safely.
If you withdraw from the program after you complete your first collection period of approximately six months, the price of your insurance could be adjusted as follows:
- any favorable price adjustment may be partially or entirely removed
- any price increase will continue to apply and may be re-evaluated when your insurance is renewed.
If you withdraw from the program before you complete your first collection period, but after you drove the required 1,000 km, we may still use your driving data to personalize your price when your insurance is renewed.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM AFTER JULY 11TH, 2020
Yes, you can end your participation in the automerit program at any time by contacting us. However, you will lose any discount related to the program.
Yes, you can end your participation in the automerit program at any time by contacting us. However, you will lose any discount related to the program.
Yes, you can end your participation in the automerit program at any time by contacting us. However, withdrawal from the program will result in the cancellation of your car insurance coverage.
What happens to my car insurance if I withdraw from the program?
Your car insurance coverage will be cancelled if you withdraw from the automerit program. For more information, please review the conditions outlined in the Terms of use.
Can my discount or surcharge apply to all my cars? Will the automerit price adjustment apply for all my cars?
Yes, we will adjust the price of your insurance for any car you drive as long as you’re the principal driver on the policy, and your car meets the eligibility requirements of the program.
Yes, your automerit discount will apply to any car you drive as long as you're the principal driver on the policy, and your car meets the eligibility requirements of the program.
Yes, your automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge will apply to any car you drive as long as you're the principal driver on the policy, and your car meets the eligibility requirements of the program.
Can additional drivers on my policy join the program?
Yes! Any driver listed as a principal driver on your policy can join the automerit program.
If you're a new customer, all principal drivers on your policy will be required to enrol in the automerit program as part of their new car insurance coverage. Principal drivers added to an existing policy will also be required to enrol. If you're already insured with us, you and each principal driver on your policy can choose to opt-in to the program.
What happens if I drive my car for business?
If you’re driving for business, your trips will still count towards your safety score and price adjustment.
Not a problem. If you're driving for business, your trips will still count towards your Safety Score and automerit discount.
Can I join if I'm an Uber, Lyft or commercial driver?
The automerit program is designed for business and personal use only. If you're driving for commercial reasons (Uber, Lyft, etc.), you will need to visit the All Trips section of the app and set the toggle to "I was a passenger on this trip" within 30 days of completing the trip. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
The automerit program is designed for business and personal use only. If you are driving for commercial purposes, for example if you’re an Uber or Lyft driver, ambulance driver, bus driver or heavy truck driver, you must visit the “All Trips”. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
Set-up
What type of smartphone do I need to use automerit?
You will need an iPhone running iOS 10 or higher, or an Android device running version 5.1 or higher. Depending on the type of smartphone you have, the automerit program's performance can vary as certain sensors behave differently in different devices.
How do I download automerit?
Depending on your smartphone settings, the belairdirect app will update automatically with the automerit program or you will be prompted to confirm the update. If you don't have the belairdirect app, you can download it for free from the App Store© or Google Play™.
Why do you need permission to use my location?
The automerit program won't work unless you turn on location services in your smartphone settings. Your location allows us to detect driving behaviour, such as changes in speed and when you start a trip. It also helps us to identify whether you're the driver or a passenger.
Why do you need permission to access my iPhone's motion sensors?
We need access to your iPhone's motion and fitness data for its accelerometer and gyroscope sensors. As the name implies, the accelerometer measures acceleration and helps us determine how fast your phone is moving. Whereas the gyroscope detects which direction it's pointing in.
Why do you need permission to make and manage phone calls on my Android device?
We need access to "make and manage phone calls" on your Android device for its accelerometer and gyroscope sensors. As the name implies, the accelerometer measures acceleration and helps us determine how fast your phone is moving. Whereas the gyroscope detects which direction it's pointing in.
How do you know if I'm the driver or just a passenger?
When you first access the automerit program, you will be asked if you're mostly the driver or a passenger when travelling by car. We also use state-of-the-art technology to analyze your driving behaviour and smartphone's movements in order to identify if you're the driver, passenger, or travelling by some other mode of transit (e.g. public transportation).
How much of my smartphone's battery will be used while using automerit?
Like any app that uses your location, the automerit program will consume an average of 3% to 6% of your smartphone's battery life per hour. This is a small amount when you're not driving, and slightly more while you're taking a trip. Remember, if your battery is lower than 20% or your smartphone is in power-saving mode, your trips will not be recorded!
Do I need to have a data plan to use automerit?
Yes, you must have a data plan with internet access in order to collect and transfer your driving data to us.
How much of my data plan will be used?
Generally, between 30 and 60 MB per month will be used. This is a very small fraction of the average data plan (1000 – 2000 MB or more per month).
Troubleshooting
I’ve followed all the steps. Why doesn’t automerit appear in my app?
If you already have the belairdirect app and cannot access the automerit program in the app, please try logging out and logging back in. If you still cannot access the program, try deleting the app and downloading it again or contact us at 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 and a member of our customer service team will guide you through activating the automerit section of the app
Why does my trip's starting point not match my actual location?
In order to determine your trip's starting point, you need to start driving. As a result, there's a delay of 300 metres before we can detect movement and pinpoint your location.
Why don't I see my latest trip?
It may occasionally happen that a trip is not recorded due to:
- no internet connection;
- battery is lower than 20%;
- smartphone is in power-saving mode;
- permission is disabled;
- app is not running in the background;
- app is experiencing technical difficulties.
I wasn't the driver! How do I change my Trip Summary?
Don’t worry! In the event that a trip has been misclassified, go to “Trip summary” and select edit to change your status in the “About this trip” section within 30 days of completing the trip. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
Someone else was using my phone while I was driving. What now?
Just go to “Trip summary” and select edit to change your status in the “About this trip” section within 30 days of completing the trip. The event will then be removed from your Trip Summary. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
What happens if I don't drive for a while?
Contact us before you plan to stop driving for more than 30 days. If not, this could result in the termination of your participation in the automerit program, meaning you could lose your 10% enrolment discount and the opportunity to drive down the price of your car insurance by driving safely.
Please contact us in advance if you're planning not to drive for more than 30 days. If you don't, this could result in the cancellation of your automerit enrolment and you will lose any discount related to the program.
What happens if I don't activate automerit?
Make sure to follow the steps within the app to turn on the automerit program within 15 days of your of your enrolment in the program. If not, you could lose your 10% enrolment discount and the opportunity to drive down the price of your car insurance by driving safely.
It's important to activate your enrolment in the automerit program within 15 days of the program's effective date. If you don't, this could result in the cancellation of your enrolment and you will lose any discounts related to the program. and car insurance coverage.
What happens if I get a new or different type of smartphone?
You will need to download the belairdirect app again. There's no need to re-enrol in the automerit program as all your information will be stored.
What do I do if I get a new phone number?
Just download the app again and log in, your profile and trips will still be there.
What happens if I delete the belairdirect app?
Just download the app again and log in, your profile and trips will still be there. If not, you could lose your 10% enrolment discount and the opportunity to drive down the price of your car insurance by driving safely.
Don't worry! If you delete the belairdirect app by mistake, you just need to download it again and follow the prompts to activate the automerit program. All your information will be stored, and you can continue driving. Remember - if we can't record your trips within a 30-day period this could result in the cancellation of your automerit program enrolment and you will lose any discount related to the program. and car insurance coverage.
What should I do if there's a mistake in my driving data?
We're here to help! Contact us at 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 if there's an error in your driving data, or if you're experiencing technical difficulties.
Safety and Stats
How is my discount calculatedHow do you calculate my discount or surcharge?
Your automerit discount is based on the following driving events:
- duration of trip;
- hard braking;
- rapid acceleration;
- cornering and fast turns;
- kilometres driven; and
- distracted driving (using your phone to talk or text, even if it's hands-free).
These driving events are then analyzed based on factors such as:
- severity of the event;
- speed at which the event was registered;
- time of day andday of the week; and
- road types (e.g., highway, urban or rural); and
- left or right turns.
We understand that even experienced drivers need to brake hard or accelerate quickly sometimes. It's your safety that matters most, which is why your automerit discount is calculated over the average of several trips. Don't worry! One individual event will not have a significant impact on your overall score.
Your automerit discount is based on the following driving events:
- duration of trip
- hard braking
- rapid acceleration
- cornering and fast turns
- kilometres driven
- distracted driving (talking or texting, even if it's hands-free)
These driving events are then analyzed based on factors such as:
- severity of the event
- speed at which the event was registered
- time of day and day of the week
- road types (highway, urban or rural)
- left or right turns
We understand that even experienced drivers need to brake hard or accelerate quickly sometimes. It’s your safety that matters most, which is why your automerit discount is calculated over the average of several trips. One individual event will not have a significant impact on your overall score.
Can the cost of my car insurance increase because of automerit?
Your 10% enrolment discount expires approximately six months from the day you start driving with automerit. The price of your car insurance could then increase or decrease based on your driving habits. However, when your policy is renewed there are also other pricing factors than the automerit adjustment that could impact your price.
Your automerit discount may change or even be removed during the course of your policy term. Mid-term (at approximately 6 months) your premium may increase or decrease due to the completion of a collection period and the updating of your automerit discount. This fluctuation could result in a balance owing to us. When your policy is renewed, the cost of your car insurance may increase or decrease based on several factors other than a change in your automerit discount.
Your automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge may change or even be removed during the course of your policy term. Mid-term (at approximately 6 months) your premium may increase or decrease due to the completion of a collection period and the updating of your automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge. This fluctuation could result in a balance owing to us. When your policy is renewed, your automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge will be adjusted and your premium could again increase or decrease based on several factors other than a change in your automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge.
What's my Safety Score?
Your safety score reflects how you drove over the last six months and is used to personalize the price of your car insurance.
It's based on driving habits that, according to experts, reduce the risk of an accident:
Safe speed
Driving within speed limits at all times.
Smoothness
Braking and accelerating smoothly.
Focus
Keeping your focus on the road and avoiding phone use.
It also takes into account your driving environment:
When you drive
Time of day and day of the week.
Where you drive
Road types (e.g., highway, urban or rural routes).
How much you drive
Number of hours and kilometres driven.
Remember, your score is based on the average of several trips, so one event will not have a significant impact.
Your safety score is a summary of how safe you drive. It takes into account your driving data from the last six months, and is mainly based on the following three factors which are highly representative of your driving and could affect your discount:
- Safe speed: Driving within speed limits at all times.
- Smoothness: Braking and accelerating smoothly.
- Focus: Keeping your focus on the road and avoiding phone use.
Even experienced drivers need to brake hard or accelerate quickly sometimes. It’s your safety that matters most, which is why your score is calculated over the average of several trips. One individual event will not have a significant impact on your overall score.
What driving behaviour is displayed in the app? How can automerit help me drive safe?
Your Safety score in the app reflects how safe you drive and is used to personalize the price of your car insurance. It's mainly based on driving habits that, according to experts, reduce the risk of an accident:
- Safe speed:
Driving within speed limits at all times. - Smoothness:
Braking and accelerating smoothly. - Focus:
Keeping your focus on the road and avoiding phone use.
The automerit program helps you drive safer by translating your driving data into easy to understand driving behaviours and events, such as:
- safe speed;
- smoothness;
- focus;
This is simply an overview as several factors are used to calculate your discount.
How many kilometres do I need to drive?
During each collection period, you need to drive a minimum distance of 1,000 km to qualify for a driving discount. This distance is required to capture an accurate picture of your driving behaviour. If the minimum distance is not met, any automerit discount will cease to apply until a new collection period is completed.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM AFTER JULY 11TH, 2020
You need to drive a minimum of 1,000 km within each collection period of approximately six months. If not, the price of your car insurance could be impacted as follows until the completion of a collection period meeting the 1,000 km minimum:
- any favorable price adjustment may be partially or entirely removed
- any price increase will continue to apply and may be re-evaluated when your insurance is renewed.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM PRIOR TO JULY 11TH, 2020
In order for us to capture an accurate picture of your driving behaviour, you must drive a minimum of 1,000 km during a collection period. If you don't, any automerit discount will cease to apply until a new collection period is completed.
In order for us to capture an accurate picture of your driving behaviour, you must drive a minimum of 1,000 km during a collection period. If you don't, any automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge will cease to apply until a new collection period is completed.
How is my discount applied to my car insurance? How does my Safety Score impact my premium?
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM AFTER JULY 11TH,Y 2020
Your Safety score reflects how safe you drive and is used to personalize the price of your car insurance. Get a score over 60 for driving safely, and your price could decrease. Score under 60 by taking risks on the road, and your price could increase. However, there are also other pricing factors than the automerit adjustment that could impact yourY price.
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM PRIOR TO JULYY 11TH,Y 2020
Your Safety score is used to update your discount approximately every six months. Get a score overY 60 for driving safely, and you could save up toY 25% when your car insurance is renewed. Score under 60 by taking risks on the road, and you could lose or lower yourY discount.
Your automerit discount is just one of many savings that could be applied to your car insurance policy (e.g. car + home discount, discount for two or more vehicles, etc.). Discounts are applied to your premium in different sequences and apply to specific coverage, which is why you might notice that your dollar discount is different from your percentage discount. Don't worry! You will always receive the correct amount of savings.
When will the cost price of my car insurance change?
When you first join the automerit program, you will get a one-time 10% enrolment discount. This enrolment discount will then be replaced, if applicable, by a driving discount once your first collection period is completed (six months after your first recorded trip).
For a collection period ending during your policy term, you can expect that:
- If your discount increases, your automerit discount and premium will be updated.
- If your discount decreases, your automerit discount and premium will be updated. However, if your discount only decreases by less than 7%, we will not apply your updated automerit discount and continue to apply the previous discount and premium.
Your automerit discount will again be adjusted when your car insurance is renewed. Your price could then increase or decrease based on several factors other than a change in your automerit discount. Your discount will be updated approximately six months into your policy term for upcoming policy terms, and again at renewal.
Your 10% enrolment discount expires approximately six months from the day you start driving with automerit. The price of your car insurance could then increase or decrease based on your driving habits. However, when your policy is renewed there are also other pricing factors than the automerit adjustment that could impact your price.
Once your first collection period has been completed (180 days after your first trip), if applicable, your automerit discount or a high-risk driving surcharge will be applied. For a collection period ending during your policy term, you can expect that:
- If your discount increases, your automerit discount and premium will be updated.
- If your discount decreases, your automerit discount and premium will be updated. However, if your discount only decreases by less than 7%, we will not apply your updated automerit discount and will continue to apply the previous discount and premium.
Your automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge will be adjusted when your policy is up for renewal. Once your policy is renewed, the cost of your car insurance may increase or decrease based on several factors other than a change in your automerit discount. For upcoming policy terms, your discount or high-risk driving surcharge will be updated approximately 6 months into your policy term, and again at renewal.
How do I know if I'm getting a discount How do I know what my discount or surcharge will be?
Your projected automerit discount will be displayed on the app's dashboard. Every month, the policyholder will receive an email outlining any upcoming discount for all principal drivers on the same policy.
Your projected discount or high-risk driving surcharge will be displayed on the app's dashboard. Every month, the policyholder will receive an email outlining any upcoming discount or surcharge for all principal drivers on the same policy.
Why is my discount different on my policy documents?
The discount that is applied on your policy documents is the one calculated approximately every 6 months, at mid-term or at renewal, and could be different from the projected discount that appears in the app today, which is updated after every trip.
Why is my discount or surcharge different on my policy documents?
The discount or surcharge that is applied on your policy documents is the one calculated approximately every 6 months, at mid-term or at renewal, and could be different from the projected discount or surcharge that appears in the app today, which is updated after every trip.
When is my discount or surcharge updated in the app?
Your projected automerit discount will appear in the app once you have driven 1,000 km or after 60 days when you have driven a minimum of 100 km. Once this threshold is reached, your discount will be updated within a few minutes after each trip.
Your projected automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge will appear in the app once you have driven a minimum of 1,000 km during a collection period. Once this threshold is reached, your projected discount or surcharge will be updated within a few minutes after each trip. However, the automerit discount or high-risk driving surcharge that is applied on your policy documents is the one calculated approximatively every 6 months, at mid-term or when your policy is renewed.
How will my car insurance payments be adjusted?
Whenever the price of your car insurance changes, you will receive updated policy documents and a billing statement detailing any adjustments:
- If the premium has already been paid in full: A refund will be issued if your price decreased, or an additional amount will be due if your price increased
- you are on a monthly payment plan or another payment method: Your payments will be adjusted to reflect the price increase or decrease
When your policy is renewed, the price of your car insurance could also increase or decrease based on pricing factors other than the automerit adjustment
Whenever the cost of your car insurance changes, you will receive updated policy documents including a billing statement indicating any adjustments in your payments:
- If the premium has already been paid in full: a refund will be issued if the premium decreased, or an additional amount will be due if the premium has increased;
- If the premium is paid monthly, or by another payment method: the payment schedule will be adjusted accordingly to reflect increased or decreased payments, as the case may be.
When your policy is renewed, the cost of your car insurance may increase or decrease based on factors other than a change in your automerit discount program.
On what coverage can my discount be applied?
Your automerit discount will be applied to the following belairdirect car insurance coverage (where applicable):
- Liability — Bodily Injury;
- Property Damage;
- Direct Compensation—Property Damage;
- Accident Benefits (Standard Benefits);
- Uninsured Automobile;
- Collision or Upset;
- Comprehensive;
- All Perils;
- Specified Perils;
- Family Protection Coverage Endorsement (OPCF 44R).
For more details on the coverage listed above, please consult your policy documents.
In order for your automerit discount to apply, you must be enrolled in the program and listed as the principal driver of the car(s) on your policy. Not all cars on your policy may be eligible for the discount. For a list of eligible cars, please contact us.
What happens to my discount or surcharge if my car is in storage?
Your automerit discount can't be applied to a car in storage. However, if you drive are the principal driver of more than one car, your discount will be applied to the car you're currently driving.
Why was my low mileage discount removed?
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM BEFORE OCTOBER 18TH, 2020
We've made some changes and updates to our automerit program. While there's no longer a specific discount based on the kilometres you drive, the time you spend on the road will still be reflected in your automerit discount.
Why is my discount lower when my driving hasn't changed?
CLIENTS WHO HAVE ENROLLED IN THE AUTOMERIT PROGRAM BEFORE OCTOBER 18TH, 2020
We adjusted how we calculate our automerit discount, and as a result, drivers who receive more than 25% off will see a decrease in their discount. Rest assured, you will get the best discount that we can offer based on your driving behaviour. We simply no longer offer a discount of up to 40% off your car insurance.
Privacy
Who has access to my trips?
Information about your driving behaviour and trips is only shared with TrueMotion, Inc., a mobile telematics company. We work with this service provider for the technology, systems, and services necessary to run the automerit program.
Do you track my phone calls?
No, belairdirect only receives information to detect if you are using your phone while driving. Your phone calls will never be tracked or recorded.
Can other drivers on my policy see my Safety Score and trips?
No. This information is only visible to you and is not shared with any other drivers on your policy.
Can the police access my driving data if I have a car accident?
Not without proper legal authorization or your consent. We're committed to protecting your privacy and will never disclose your personal information to law enforcement agencies, unless otherwise permitted or required by law.
How is my driving data protected?
We use strict security safeguards when storing or destroying your personal information in order to prevent unauthorized access, collection, use, disclosure, copying, modification, disposal or similar risks. In the event that we transfer your personal information to a third party (e.g. our service provider, TrueMotion, Inc.), we contractually require such third party to protect and handle your personal information in a manner consistent with our own privacy safeguarding measures and according to all applicable laws.
Will belairdirect ever share my information?
belairdirect and Truemotion, Inc. will only use and disclose your information in accordance with the automerit program's Terms of Use, unless otherwise required by law.
Program
What's automerit and how does it work?
Available through the belairdirect app, automerit is belairdirect's usage-based insurance program that rewards safe driving behaviour. Through your smartphone's GPS, accelerometer, and gyroscope, the automerit program will assess how safely you drive in order to calculate your potential discount. Get a 10% enrolment discount just for signing up and if you drive safely, you could save up to 25% off your car insurance. It's simple: the safer you drive, the more you could save!
How do I join?
Joining the automerit program is quick and easy! Simply contact us, or for more information visit www.belairdirect.com/automerit. All drivers registered for automerit under the same policy will receive a text message (SMS) with instructions to activate the program.* Once you activate your account, accept the Terms of Use, and give the app access to certain features on your smartphone - you're ready to start driving!
*If there's more than one principal driver on the same policy enrolled in the automerit program, the download link will be texted to the phone number provided for each principal driver.
Can I withdraw from the program at any time?
Yes, you can end your participation in the automerit program at any time by contacting us. However, you will lose any discount related to the program.
Can my discount apply to all my cars?
Yes, your automerit discount will apply to any car you drive as long as you're the principal driver on the policy, and your car meets the eligibility requirements of the program.
Can additional drivers on my policy join the program?
Yes! Any driver listed as a principal driver on your policy can join the automerit program.
What happens if I drive my car for business?
Not a problem. If you are driving your personal car for business, e.g., if you’re a realtor or salesperson, your trips will still count towards your Safety Score and automerit discount.
Can I join if I'm an Uber, Lyft or commercial driver?
The automerit program is designed for business and personal use only. If you are driving for commercial purposes, for example if you’re an Uber or Lyft driver, ambulance driver, bus driver or heavy truck driver, you must visit the “All Trips”. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
Set-up
What type of smartphone do I need?
You will need an iPhone running iOS 10 or higher, or an Android device running version 5.1 or higher. Depending on the type of smartphone you have, the automerit program's performance can vary as certain sensors behave differently in different devices.
How do I download automerit?
Depending on your smartphone settings, the belairdirect app will update automatically with the automerit program or you will be prompted to confirm the update. If you don't have the belairdirect app, you can download it for free from the App Store© or Google Play™.
Why do you need permission to use my location?
The automerit program won't work unless you turn on location services in your smartphone settings. Your location allows us to detect driving behaviour, such as changes in speed and when you start a trip. It also helps us to identify whether you're the driver or a passenger.
Why do you need permission to access my iPhone's motion sensors?
We need access to your iPhone's motion and fitness data for its accelerometer and gyroscope sensors. As the name implies, the accelerometer measures acceleration and helps us determine how fast your phone is moving. Whereas the gyroscope detects which direction it's pointing in.
Why do you need permission to make and manage phone calls on my Android device?
We need access to "make and manage phone calls" on your Android device for its accelerometer and gyroscope sensors. As the name implies, the accelerometer measures acceleration and helps us determine how fast your phone is moving. Whereas the gyroscope detects which direction it's pointing in.
How do you know if I'm the driver or just a passenger?
When you first access the automerit program, you will be asked if you're mostly the driver or a passenger when travelling by car. We also use state-of-the-art technology to analyze your driving behaviour and smartphone's movements in order to identify if you're the driver, passenger, or travelling by some other mode of transit (e.g. public transportation).
How much of my smartphone's battery will be used while using automerit?
Like any app that uses your location, the automerit program will consume an average of 3% to 6% of your smartphone's battery life per hour. This is a small amount when you're not driving, and slightly more while you're taking a trip. Remember, if your battery is lower than 20% or your smartphone is in power-saving mode, your trips will not be recorded!
Do I need to have a data plan to use automerit?
Yes, you must have a data plan with internet access in order to collect and transfer your driving data to us.
How much of my data plan will be used?
Generally, between 30 and 60 MB per month will be used. This is a very small fraction of the average data plan (1000 – 2000 MB or more per month).
Troubleshooting
I’ve followed all the steps. Why doesn’t automerit appear in my app?
If you already have the belairdirect app and cannot access the automerit program in the app, please try logging out and logging back in. If you still cannot access the program, try deleting the app and downloading it again or contact us at 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 and a member of our customer service team will guide you through activating the automerit section of the app
Why does my trip's starting point not match my actual location?
In order to determine your trip's starting point, you need to start driving. As a result, there's a delay of 300 metres before we can detect movement and pinpoint your location.
Why don't I see my latest trip?
It may occasionally happen that a trip is not recorded due to:
- no internet connection;
- battery is lower than 20%;
- smartphone is in power-saving mode;
- permission is disabled;
- app is not running in the background;
- app is experiencing technical difficulties.
I wasn't the driver! How do I change my Trip Summary?
Don't worry! In the event that a trip has been misclassified, visit the All Trips section of the app and set the toggle to "I was a passenger on this trip" within 30 days of completing the trip. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
Someone else was using my phone while I was driving. What now?
Just visit the All Trips section of the app and set the toggle to "A passenger was using my phone" within 30 days of completing the trip. The distracted driving event will then be removed from your Trip Summary. You can also contact us if you need to correct any other tagged information.
What happens if I don't drive for a while?
Please contact us in advance if you're planning not to drive for more than 30 days. If you don't, this could result in the cancellation of your automerit enrolment and you will lose any discount related to the program.
What happens if I don't activate automerit?
It's important to activate your enrolment in the automerit program within 15 days of the program's effective date. If you don't, this could result in the cancellation of your enrolment and you will lose any discounts related to the program.
What happens if I get a new or different type of smartphone?
You will need to download the belairdirect app again. There's no need to re-enrol in the automerit program as all your information will be stored.
What do I do if I get a new phone number?
Just give us a call! We'll make the necessary changes to your account and text you a new automerit download link. All your information will be stored, and you can continue driving.
What happens if I delete the belairdirect app?
Don't worry! If you delete the belairdirect app by mistake, you just need to download it again and follow the prompts to activate the automerit program. All your information will be stored, and you can continue driving. Remember - if we can't record your trips within a 30-day period this could result in the cancellation of your automerit program enrolment and you will lose any discount related to the program.
What should I do if there's a mistake in my driving data?
We're here to help! Contact us at 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 1 877 727.8477 1 855 250.6517 1 844 364.0223 1 877 220.6065 if there's an error in your driving data, or if you're experiencing technical difficulties.
Safety and stats
What's my Safety Score?
Your Safety Score provides you with an at-a-glance summary of how safe you're driving. It takes into account your driving data from the last 30 days, and will display a score for the following five risks which are highly representative of your driving and could affect your automerit discount:
- Risky hours: driving at night between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. when the risk for car accidents is higher.
- Rapid acceleration: quick changes in speed starting at or exceeding 11.0 km/hr per second.
- Hard braking: sudden changes in braking speed starting at or exceeding -11.0 km/hr per second.
- Speeding: driving at an excessive speed.
- Distracted driving: using your phone to talk or text, even if it's hands-free.
We understand that even experienced drivers need to brake hard or accelerate quickly sometimes. It's your safety that matters most, which is why your Safety Score is calculated over the average of several trips. Don't worry! One individual event will not have a significant impact on your overall score.
How do I read my Safety Score?
Your Safety Score lets you take a closer look at how you're driving through colour coding to indicate your level of risk:
- Dark green: very low risk
- Light green: low risk
- Yellow: moderate risk
- Orange : high risk
- Red: severe risk
What are my Driving Stats?
Your Driving Stats provide you with a detailed description of each risk displayed in the app and propose tips for improvement. This allows you to monitor your progress and see how you compare to other drivers participating in the automerit program in your province.
What driving behaviour is displayed in the app?
The automerit program helps you drive safer by translating your driving data into easy to understand driving behaviours and events, such as:
- hard braking;
- rapid acceleration;
- risky hours;
- speed; and
- distracted driving (using your phone to talk or text, even if it's hands-free).
This is simply an overview as several factors are used to calculate your automerit discount.
How many kilometres do I need to drive?
In order for us to capture an accurate picture of your driving behaviour, you must drive a minimum of 1,000 km during a collection period. If you don't, any automerit discount.
Discount and savings
How is my discount calculated?
Your automerit discount is based on the following driving events:
- braking (e.g., harsh braking);
- acceleration (e.g., sudden acceleration);
- turning (e.g., cornering);
- distance driven;
- time of day;
- type of road driven on; /li>
- speed; and
- distracted driving.
These driving events are then analyzed based on factors such as:
- severity of the event;
- speed at which the event was registered;
- time of day ; and
- left or right turns.
We understand that even experienced drivers need to brake hard or accelerate quickly sometimes. It's your safety that matters most, which is why your automerit discount is calculated over the average of several trips. Don't worry! One individual event will not have a significant impact your overall score.
What is an enrolment discount?
The enrolment discount is applied to the cost of your car insurance when you first join the automerit program. This one-time discount is applicable over your first collection period of approximately 6 months. At the end of this collection period, you could save with a personalized driving discount based on your driving behaviour.
Can the cost of my car insurance increase because of automerit?
Your personalized driving discount may change or even be removed during the course of your policy term. Mid-term (at approximately 6 months) your premium may increase or decrease due to the completion of a collection period and the updating of your automerit discount. This fluctuation could result in a balance owing to us. When your policy is renewed, your automerit discount will be adjusted and your premium could again increase or decrease based on several factors other than a change in your automerit discount.
How is my discount applied to my car insurance?
Your automerit discount is just one of many savings that could be applied to your car insurance policy (e.g. car + home discount, discount for two or more vehicles, etc.). Discounts are applied to your premium in different sequences and apply to specific coverage. Don't worry! You will always receive the correct amount of savings.
When will the cost of my car insurance change?
When you first join the automerit program, you will receive a one-time 10% enrolment discount. This enrolment discount will then be replaced, if applicable, by a personalized driving discount based on your driving behaviour (180 days after your first tagged trip).
For a collection period ending during your policy term, you can expect that:
- If your discount increases, your automerit discount and premium will be updated.
- If your discount decreases, your automerit discount and premium will be updated. However, if your discount only decreases by less than 7%, we will not apply your updated automerit discount and will continue to apply the previous discount and premium.
Your automerit discount will again be adjusted when your policy is up for renewal. Once your policy is renewed, the cost of your car insurance may increase or decrease based on several factors other than a change in your automerit discount. For upcoming policy terms, your discount will be updated approximately 6 months into your policy term, and again at renewal.
How do I know if I'm getting a discount?
Your projected automerit discount will be displayed on the app's dashboard. Every month, the policyholder will receive an email outlining any upcoming discount for all principal drivers on the same policy.
Why does my app discount not match my policy documents?
The discount that is applied on your policy documents is the one calculated approximately every 6 months, at mid-term or at renewal, and could be different from the projected discount that appears in the app today, which is updated after every trip.
When is my discount updated in the app?
Your projected automerit discount will appear in the app once you have driven 1,000 km. Once this threshold is reached, your projected discount will be updated within a few minutes after each trip.
How will my car insurance payments be adjusted?
Whenever the cost of your car insurance changes, you will receive updated policy documents including a billing statement indicating any adjustments in your payments:
- If the premium has already been paid in full: a refund will be issued if the premium decreased, or an additional amount will be due if the premium has increased;
- If the premium is paid monthly, or by another payment method: the payment schedule will be adjusted accordingly to reflect increased or decreased payments, as the case may be.
When your policy is renewed, the cost of your car insurance may increase or decrease based on factors other than a change in your automerit discount.
What happens to my discount if my car is in storage?
Your automerit discount can't be applied to a car in storage. However, if you are the principal driver of more than one car, your discount will be applied to the car you're currently driving.
Privacy
Who has access to my trips?
Information about your driving behaviour and trips is only shared with TrueMotion, Inc., a mobile telematics company. We work with this service provider for the technology, systems, and services necessary to run the automerit program.
Do you track my phone calls?
No, belairdirect only receives information to detect if you are using your phone while driving. Your phone calls will never be tracked or recorded.
Can other drivers on my policy see my Safety Score and trips?
No. This information is only visible to you and is not shared with any other drivers on your policy.
Can the police access my driving data if I have a car accident?
Not without proper legal authorization or your consent. We're committed to protecting your privacy and will never disclose your personal information to law enforcement agencies, unless otherwise permitted or required by law.
How is my driving data protected?
We use strict security safeguards when storing or destroying your personal information in order to prevent unauthorized access, collection, use, disclosure, copying, modification, disposal or similar risks. In the event that we transfer your personal information to a third party (e.g. our service provider, TrueMotion, Inc.), we contractually require such third party to protect and handle your personal information in a manner consistent with our own privacy safeguarding measures and according to all applicable laws.
Will belairdirect ever share my information?
belairdirect and Truemotion, Inc. will only use and disclose your information in accordance with the automerit program's Terms of Use, unless otherwise required by law.
Digital proof of insurance
Can I use my digital proof of insurance instead of the paper version?
Digital proof of insurance is valid in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador. Make sure you always carry the paper copy when travelling outside the province.
If someone else drives my car, how do I share my digital proof of insurance with them?
If you have an iPhone, use the Wallet app and select the 3-dot menu to access the share feature. You can also use AirDrop, iMessage, or email to share your digital proof of insurance.
It's not possible to share your digital proof of insurance with an Android device. Only policyholders* have access through the app. In the meantime, make sure you always keep the paper copy in your vehicle.
*The policyholder is the person whose name the insurance policy is registered.
If you have an iPhone, use the Wallet app and select the 3-dot menu to access the share feature. You can also use AirDrop, iMessage, or email to share your digital proof of insurance.
It's not possible to share your digital proof of insurance with an Android device. Only policyholders* have access through the app, but you can email a PDF version.
*The policyholder is the person whose name the insurance policy is registered.
How do I protect my personal information when showing my digital proof of insurance to the police or other drivers?
We're committed to protecting your privacy, which is why our digital proof of insurance is available on your phone's lock screen. This feature allows you to lock your screen and restrict access to your phone's content when sharing your digital proof of insurance. For added protection, you can also turn off notifications, but remember to be careful not to unlock your phone through fingerprint or facial recognition accidentally. By using this digital proof of insurance, you accept all risk and responsibility associated with its use.
How can I make sure that my digital proof of insurance is up to date even when I'm offline?
When you renew or make changes to your policy, the changes will appear the next business day in the app and widget.
If you have the Wallet app, visit the Car or Documents section of the app and select "Add to Apple Wallet" to get the latest version.
When you add the widget to your iPhone or Android device or use the Wallet app, you can access your digital proof of insurance even when you're offline
Can I use my digital proof of insurance outside of my province?
The digital version of your proof of insurance is valid in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador. Make sure you always carry the paper copy when travelling outside the province.
Can I print a copy of my proof of insurance?
If you need to print your proof of insurance, download the PDF version available in the app or your Client Centre account. Print it in colour on white paper to make sure all the information is clear and legible. We recommend that you always keep the paper copy of your proof of insurance in your vehicle when travelling outside the province or to share with other drivers and law enforcement.
What should I do if a police officer does not accept my digital proof of insurance?
The digital version of your proof of insurance is valid in Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador. If necessary, a police officer can confirm your coverage by calling 1 888 270.9732 1 888 280.8549 1 866 473.9659 1 844 757.2925 1 866 473.9676.
In Alberta, you also have the option of emailing your digital proof of insurance to law enforcement if required.
We recommend that you always keep the paper copy of your proof of insurance in your vehicle when travelling outside the province or to share with other drivers and law enforcement.
Tips on how to print your proof of insurance.What information is on the digital proof of insurance?
On your digital proof of insurance you will find the name of your insurance company with your policy number, coverage dates, name, address, as well as the year, make, model and the serial number of your vehicle.
What happens if my phone is damaged when I share my digital proof of insurance?
If you choose to use digital proof of insurance, you're responsible for any risks that may arise, such as damage to your phone by a third party, including a police officer.
Can I use my digital proof of insurance if I drive a commercial car, motorcycle or an ATV?
As long as the vehicle is covered by a personal auto insurance policy, you can access your digital proof of insurance through the app or your Client Centre account.
How do you prevent fraud?
Digital proof of insurance is equipped with several safety features to prevent fraud and protect your privacy. The app will never allow access to your location or personal information without your explicit consent.
What happens if my phone malfunctions or its battery dies?
It's the driver's responsibility to have a valid proof of insurance at all times. Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping a paper copy in your vehicle.