Segmented Information Net premiums earned by line of business (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2012
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	$ 28,068	$ 29,267
Private passenger auto liability [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	18,661	19,405
Auto physical damage [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	7,843	7,304
Non-standard automobile [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	26,504	26,709
Commercial auto liability [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	649	2,556
Real Estate Insurance [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	915	0
Property, Liability and Casualty Insurance Segment [Member]
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Net premiums earned	$ 0	$ 2