Understanding Optional Benefits for Accident Benefits in Ontario

• 
  Catherine Shearer
  Partner

In Ontario, having automobile insurance is mandatory for all drivers. This insurance includes coverage for accident benefits, which are designed to provide financial protection in the event of injuries sustained in a car accident. While the basic accident benefits coverage is provided to all insured drivers, there are optional benefits available that can enhance the coverage and provide additional protection.

Understanding Optional Benefits

Optional benefits in Ontario offer drivers the opportunity to increase their accident benefits coverage beyond the standard limits (which have decreased over the years). These optional benefits allow individuals to tailor their insurance coverage to better suit their needs and provide additional support in case of accidents. While these optional benefits may result in slightly higher premiums, they can offer invaluable protection and peace of mind.

Here are some key optional benefits for accident benefits in Ontario

1. Increased Medical and Rehabilitation Benefits: This optional benefit allows policyholders to increase the standard coverage for medical and rehabilitation expenses beyond the basic limits. It can be crucial in covering expenses for necessary medical treatments, rehabilitation therapies, attendant care, and other essential services to aid in recovery.

2. Increased Income Replacement Benefits: In case of an accident leading to injuries that prevent the insured individual from working, income replacement benefits are provided. The optional benefit for increased income replacement benefits allows policyholders to raise the standard weekly income replacement limit of $400/wk to ensure continued financial stability during recovery.

3. Caregiver Benefit: This optional benefit provides coverage for individuals who are unable to continue as primary caregivers due to injuries sustained in an accident. It assists in covering the costs associated with hiring caregivers to take care of dependents in the injured person’s absence.

4. Indexation Benefit: With this optional benefit, the coverage limits for various benefits can be adjusted annually to account for inflation. This helps in ensuring that the coverage maintains its value over time.

5. Death and Funeral Benefits: This optional benefit increases the coverage amount for death and funeral benefits, providing financial support to the family of an insured individual in case of a fatal accident

Importance of Optional Benefits

Opting for additional accident benefits coverage through optional benefits can significantly impact an individual’s financial security in the aftermath of an accident. It offers enhanced protection and support, ensuring that medical expenses, income replacement, and other essential costs are adequately covered.

Choosing the right optional benefits depends on various factors, including individual needs, financial situation, and risk tolerance. Consulting with an insurance advisor or broker can help in understanding the available options and selecting the most suitable coverage.

Conclusion

Optional benefits for accident benefits in Ontario play a crucial role in customizing insurance coverage to meet specific needs and provide enhanced protection in the event of a car accident. While they may increase insurance premiums, the added peace of mind and increased coverage limits make these optional benefits worthwhile for many drivers. Assessing individual requirements and understanding the available options is essential in making informed decisions about optional benefits to ensure adequate protection during unforeseen circumstances.

Remember, staying informed about your insurance coverage and regularly reviewing your policy can help you make adjustments to ensure you have the protection you need when you need it the most.

This article was written by Personal Injury Lawyer, Catherine Shearer. For additional information, please do not hesitate to contact her at catherine.shearer@mckenzielake.com or visit her Instagram page @guelphinjurylawyer. 

If you require assistance with any Personal Injury matter, speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer at McKenzie Lake Lawyers LLP by calling (519) 672-5666.