In Ontario, auto insurance is a regulated product. Every few years, the Ontario government reassesses auto insurance and mandates changes to the product offerings available to Ontario drivers. On June 1, 2016, the provincial government made major changes to standard benefits, but most Ontarians have no idea. The standard policy now automatically has the lower “after” benefit coverage shown below, which means if you’re ever in an accident that requires more financial assistance than what you see below, you or your family may have to pay out of pocket.

Luckily, optional benefits can be added for the cost of a few cups of a coffee a week and double the coverage when its most needed. Here are some terms and information that will help you have a meaningful conversation when you call your insurance company – don’t wait.

DEFINITIONS

Medical Rehabilitation: Reimbursement given for any necessary medical and rehabilitation expenses not originally covered by OHIP or group insurance plans.

Attendant care: Covers the cost of an attendant to look after an individual at home or in a health care facility following an accident.

Catastrophic injury: Permanent paralysis of both legs and arms; loss of use or amputation of one arm or leg; total loss of vision in both eyes; severe head injury resulting in permanent coma; impairment of 55% or more of a whole person; extreme impairment due to mental/behavioural disorder.

Non-catastrophic injury: Serious injuries that do not meet catastrophic description, such as injuries that could disrupt your life and require a longer recovery period.

 For more information from the province of Ontario about auto insurance reform changes click here.