Ontario's Auto Insurance Reforms
More choice, more control: Ontario’s auto insurance reforms put you in the driver’s seat
Starting July 1, 2026, Ontario is making auto insurance more flexible. Some accident benefits that were previously included in every auto insurance policy will become optional, giving you more choice to select coverage that fits your needs.
What are Statutory Accident Benefits?
Statutory Accident Benefits (SABs) can provide financial support if you are injured in a car accident. These benefits can be available regardless of who caused the accident and can cover things like medical treatment, rehabilitation and income if you can’t work because of your injuries.
What’s staying the same?
Standard medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits will continue to be included in all auto insurance policies. These benefits help cover essential recovery support after an accident.
You still have the option to purchase additional or increased benefits and coverages, such as supplementary medical, rehabilitation and attendant care, dependant care and indexation benefits.
What’s becoming optional?
The following auto insurance accident benefits will become optional
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Who is covered under Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS)?
Starting July 1, 2026, the newly optional benefits under your auto policy will only apply to:
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The named insured
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The spouse of the named insured
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Dependants of the named insured and of the named insured’s spouse
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Persons specified in the policy as drivers of the automobile
This means that some people, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and certain passengers who may have been covered in the past may no longer be eligible for accident benefits.
What this means for you
If you’re an existing customer
Your policy will renew automatically with your current coverage and limits, unless you agree with your insurer in writing to decline the benefits or to make changes to them. However, who is covered under your policy for newly optional benefits will change on July 1, 2026, regardless of renewal effective date, as described in the list above. You can review and update your coverage based on your needs. Before making changes, check if your personal or work benefits already provide similar coverage.
If you’re a new customer
Customers who are purchasing or renewing a policy on or after July 1, 2026, can choose which optional accident benefits they would like to purchase. Ask your insurer, agent, or broker which benefits are included in your quote. You may want to add optional benefits to your policy based on your needs.
If you’re a commercial customer or employee
Speak to your insurer, agent, or broker to learn more about how this change impacts you or your employees.
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What steps should I take?
1. Review your current coverage (if you are an existing customer)
Know what benefits you already have today through your auto insurance policy
2. Review your workplace or private benefits plan
Avoid duplication, you may already have coverage through your workplace, private benefits plan, or life and health insurance providers.
3. Think about your needs
Consider which coverage is right for you
4. Speak to your insurer, agent, or broker
They can help explain your options
Make informed decisions; choose the benefits that best fit your needs.
Download our fact sheets
Fact Sheet: 2026 Accident Benefits Reforms
Statutory Accident Benefits Legislation
OAP-1
The descriptions of the statutory accident benefits in this document is a summary of the statutory accident benefits in Ontario Regulation 34/10 (the “SABS”). Do not rely on this summary alone. For full details, refer to the SABS or speak with your insurer, agent, or broker.
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