What are optional benefits for motor vehicle accidents in ontario?

I am told that there are optional benefits available for motor vehicle accidents in Ontario.  What are optional benefits and how will it affect my claim if I have such benefits?  How to I find out whether I have them?

In Ontario, you have the option to enhance your standard accident benefits coverage with what are called “optional benefits.” If you have optional benefits, you may be entitled to access enhanced benefits beyond what is available under a standard policy meaning there are more benefits available to you.  If you want to know whether you have such benefits, review your automobile policy or speak for your insurance broker.

Typically, it is a good idea to speak with your insurance broker when renewing your automobile policy to discuss was enhancements are right for you.  Keep in mind that there may be a additional costs associated with enhancing those benefits.  As well, you cannot retroactively apply optional benefits to your claim if you decide to increase coverage post-accident.

These optional benefits allow you to tailor your insurance coverage to better suit your needs and provide additional support in case of accidents.

1. Increased Income Replacement Benefit: Typically, you are limited to $400 a week from your own insurer or 70% of your gross income.  However, you can raise your weekly income replacement from the standard $400 to $600, $800, or even $1,000.

2. Caregiver Benefit:  This benefit provides additional coverage for caregiving expenses if you are unable to continue your caregiving duties due to an accident.  The benefit pays up to $250 per week for the first dependant and $50 per week for each additional dependant

3. Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Benefit: Offers extra coverage for housekeeping and home maintenance tasks if you are unable to perform these duties due to an accident up to $100 per week.

4. Medical, Rehabilitation, and Attendant Care Benefits: You can increase the limits for these benefits to cover more extensive medical and rehabilitation costs.  For non-catastrophic injuries, you can increase the coverage from $65,000 to $130,000 to $1 million if you so choose.  For catastrophic injuries, you can increase the coverage from $1 million to $2 million.

5. Dependant Care Benefit: Provides up to $75 per week for the first dependant and $25 per week for each additional dependant, up to a maximum of $150 per week.

6. Indexation Benefit: Adjusts your benefits annually according to the Consumer Price Index to keep up with inflation.

It is always a good idea to bring a copy of your insurance certificate and the policy from your insurer when meeting a personal injury lawyer.  This will help the lawyer determine whether you have access to optional benefits.

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Disclaimer: The explanations and information provided here are for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Always consult with a qualified lawyer or legal professional for advice specific to your situation.