Navigating Changes to Ontario’s SABS…
Starting July 1, 2026, major updates to Ontario’s auto insurance landscape took effect. Policyholders should understand these changes, especially if they need to file a personal injury claim after a car accident. Under the new Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS), optional benefits are now only available to certain individuals, including the insured, their spouse, dependents, and designated drivers.
What Remains Unchanged?
Despite recent updates, certain benefits remain standard across all Ontario auto insurance policies, including medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits for essential post-accident services. Policyholders will now need to proactively customize their coverage by selecting specific benefits and the amounts available. However, new gaps warrant attention.
Which Benefits Are Now Considered Optional?
Several accident benefits have transitioned from being mandatory to optional. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits that are now optional in your auto insurance policy:
- Income Replacement Benefits: This benefit provides financial support to replace lost income due to an auto accident.
- Non-Earner Benefits: This benefit offers financial assistance if a student or unemployed person covered experiences an accident that interrupts their daily routine.
- Caregiver Benefits: If an individual gets injured in an auto accident and can no longer provide care for a loved one, this benefit can assist with caregiving expenses.
- Lost Educational Expenses: Should an accident disrupt attendance at school or an educational program, this benefit may cover expenses.
- Visitor Expenses: This benefit assists with travel costs incurred by family members, if you or a covered person is injured.
- Housekeeping and Home Maintenance: This benefit provides financial support for professional assistance with household chores if you are injured to the point of being unable to perform them due to an accident.
- Damage to Personal Items: Should personal belongings be damaged in an accident, this benefit covers repairs or replacements.
- Death Benefits: If an accident leads to the untimely passing of a family member, this benefit may offer compensation to their loved ones.
- Funeral Benefits: This benefit helps with funeral expenses due to an automobile accident.
Review Your Policy & Make Necessary Updates
Policyholders should regularly review their coverage and consult their insurer or agent for updates. Policies renew automatically with the same coverage unless they are declined or amended in writing. As Ontario’s auto insurance landscape evolves, seek guidance from your insurer or a knowledgeable professional to stay informed.
At Singer Katz, we are here to support you through your journey with any questions or concerns regarding personal injury claims following an automobile accident. Your peace of mind is our top priority. For more information on these changes, please refer to the details provided by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario and the Insurance Bureau of Canada. Feel free to share this information with colleagues, friends, or anyone who may benefit from understanding these upcoming changes. Being proactive about your auto insurance can lead to better protection and fewer surprises in the future.
* Please note that these suggestions are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or establish any form of lawyer-client relationship.
