Understanding Ontario’s Auto Insurance Reform and Accident Benefits Changes
Changes are coming to auto insurance in Ontario that may impact the coverage included in your policy.
Starting July 1, 2026, the Ontario government is introducing reforms to Accident Benefits coverage under Ontario auto insurance policies. Some no-fault statutory accident benefits that were previously included automatically in every standard auto policy will now become optional coverage selections.
At dbi Brokers Ltd., we want our clients to understand what these changes mean and how they could affect their protection after an accident.
What Are Accident Benefits?
Accident Benefits are mandatory, no-fault benefits included in your Ontario auto insurance policy that provide financial support if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Mandatory benefits that will still remain included in your policy are:
Medical benefits
Rehabilitation benefits
Attendant care benefits
What Is Changing on July 1, 2026?
As part of Ontario’s auto insurance reform, some Accident Benefits that were previously mandatory will now become optional coverage selections.
This means drivers may have more flexibility in customizing their auto insurance policy, but it also means it will be increasingly important to understand what coverage you have and whether it meets your needs.
What Benefits Will Become Optional?
The following benefits will no longer be automatically included, but can still be added to your auto policy:
Income Replacement — Helps replace lost income after an accident.
Non-Earner Benefit — Provides financial support if you are a student or unemployed and unable to carry out normal daily activities due to an injury.
Caregiver Benefit — Covers caregiving expenses if an injured person can no longer care for a dependent.
Lost Educational Expenses — Helps cover educational costs if an injury prevents attendance at school or a training program.
Visitor Expenses — Covers certain expenses for eligible family members visiting after an accident.
Housekeeping & Home Maintenance — Helps pay for household services if injuries prevent you from completing daily tasks.
Damage to Personal Items — Helps repair or replace personal items damaged in an accident, such as eyewear, hearing aids, or clothing.
Death Benefits — Provides compensation to eligible family members after a fatal accident.
Funeral Benefits — Helps cover funeral expenses.
What This Means for Existing Clients
No action is required for existing policyholders. Your auto insurance policy will renew automatically with your current coverage and limits unless changes are requested.
What This Means for New Auto Insurance Clients
If you purchase a new Ontario auto insurance policy after July 1, 2026, you may notice more choices when selecting Accident Benefits coverage.
Rather than receiving the same standard benefits automatically, you may now choose the level of protection included in your policy. It is recommended that you review your options with a broker before making any decisions.
Why Speaking With Your Broker Matters
Auto insurance can be complex, especially when policy reforms introduce new coverage options.
An insurance broker can help explain:
What coverages are changing
Which benefits are now optional
How the reforms may impact you and your family
What coverage options best suit your needs
At dbi Brokers Ltd., our team is here to help guide you through these changes and answer any questions about your auto insurance coverage.
Have Questions About Ontario’s Auto Insurance Reform?
If you would like to review your policy or learn more about the upcoming Accident Benefits changes, contact dbi Brokers Ltd. today at ebrokers@dbibrokers.ca or 1-800-268-3311. We’re here to help you understand your options and ensure you have the protection that’s right for you.
