Starting July 1, 2026, the Ontario Government has made changes to the Accident Benefits coverage. Some Accident Benefits that were previously mandatory in every auto insurance policy will become optional giving you more choice to select coverage that fits your needs. Please note: Your policy will renew with the same Accident Benefits coverage and limits unless you agree with your insurer in writing to decline certain benefits or make changes to them.

WHAT ARE ACCIDENT BENEFITS:

Statutory Accident Benefits can provide financial support if you are injured in an auto accident. These benefits can be available regardless of who caused the accident, and can cover things like medical treatment, rehabilitation and income if you can’t work because of your injuries.

WHAT’S STAYING THE SAME (revised mandatory coverage):

Standard medical rehabilitation and attendant care benefits will continue to be included in all auto insurance policies. You cannot remove this coverage. Depending on your needs, you have the option to purchase additional or increased benefits and coverages such as supplementary medical, rehabilitation and attendance care, dependant care and indexation benefits.

SOME ACCIDENT BENEFITS ARE BECOMING OPTIONAL:

Benefits like income replacement, non-earner, caregiver, lost educational expenses, expenses of visitors, housekeeping and home maintenance, damage to personal items, death benefit and funeral benefit are becoming optional. Dependant care is still optional. Medical rehabilitation and attendant care benefits limits can be increased. You may choose to opt out of these depending on your needs. Learn more about the Accident Benefits that are becoming optional and what they cover.

WHO IS COVERED FOR OPTIONAL ACCIDENT BENEFITS:

Although your current policy will renew with the same coverage and limits, “who” is covered under your policy will change on July 1, 2026, regardless of the effective date. Optional benefits under your auto policy will only apply to:

• the named insured

• the spouse of the named insured

• dependants of the named insured and the named insured’s spouse

• persons specified in the policy as drivers of the automobile

WHAT TO DO NEXT:

Review your current auto policy renewal and consider whether the optional Accident Benefits meet your current needs. Check whether your personal or workplace benefits (if applicable) already provide similar coverage before making any changes to your insurance coverage. Review this Accident Benefits coverage summary chart and let us know if you would like to add or delete coverage.

We are ready to assist you with understanding the Accident Benefits definitions and guide you through purchasing coverage.

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