Author: Surina Sud, Kostynuik & Greenside
The government of Ontario has announced that effective July 1, 2026, the standard insurance policy issued to Ontarians will significantly alter the benefits available to insured persons.
As it currently stands, an “insured person” who is injured in a motor vehicle accident in Ontario is eligible for various benefits regardless of whether they were at fault for the accident. Subject to one’s statutory entitlement, an insured is presently eligible for various benefits including:
- Medical and Rehabilitation and Attendant Care Benefits.
- Income Replacement Benefits (if you were employed and unable to work).
- Non-Earner Benefit (if you were not employed and completely unable to carry on a normal life).
- Caregiver benefits.
- Various expenses (visitor expenses, death benefit/funeral expenses, lost educational expenses).
With the changes, effective July 1, 2026, the only guaranteed coverage through the standard automobile policy will be the medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefit. All other coverages will be optional, i.e. available at an additional cost.
These changes will surely affect the litigation landscape of accident benefits, priority disputes, and tort MVA claims.
Click here to review the amendments under Ontario Regulation 383/24.
