Ontario car insurance can be tricky to navigate. When purchasing your auto insurance, insurers will present you with a number of different options to add extra protection to your policy. But which ones do you really need? In order to keep you and your family as safe as possible while navigating the streets of the GTA, many insurers recommend optional auto coverage. This includes riders, such as the OPCF 44R Family Protection Coverage. Let’s breakdown what this endorsement covers before adding it to your auto policy.
What is the OPCF 44R?
In addition to the mandatory auto insurance requirement in Ontario, you also have access to many different optional types. This includes Family Protection Coverage. This Ontario Policy Change Form (OPCF) is an endorsement or optional rider to your motor vehicle insurance policy. It provides you with extra protection in case injuries happen as a result of another motorist. Specifically, it protects you in case the driver does not have enough insurance coverage to pay your injury claim. This might be because they are either not insured or inadequately insured. It exists to provide insurance protection to you, the named insured, and your family members.
Breakdown of the OPCF 44R
Let’s say you are seriously injured by someone who rear-ends you at a red light and they only have $200,000 in third-party liability coverage. You may be in a difficult situation when seeking compensation from the at-fault driver. Why? Because your medical needs may far outweigh their coverage.
For a full explanation of this endorsement, click here.
Coverage provided by OPCF 44R
OPCF 44R, previously known as OPCF 44, provides you and eligible family members with additional third-party liability and benefits (bodily injury or death). With the help of this endorsement, you can recover the remaining damages you may require that the at-fault’s insurance policy cannot cover.
This endorsement will:
- Ensure that you will have access to insurance if you or a family member suffers injuries
- Apply to children under 18, those who are financially dependent, or family members residing in your home
- Be active, regardless of whether you or your family members are in the car when the accident occurs
- Apply to injuries from a motor vehicle accident if you are the driver, passenger, a cyclist or pedestrian
OPCF 44R mirrors your third-party liability and is additional to your auto policy. In order to file an OPCF 44R claim, your 44R coverage must be greater than that of the at-fault driver’s liability coverage.
If you have a limit of $1,500,000 on your policy and are in an accident with someone that only carries $500,000, OPCF 44R will provide another $1,000,000 in protection. This additional amount will be crucial if you or a family member suffers a serious injury.
Is OPCF 44R mandatory in Ontario?
OPCF 44R is not mandatory in Ontario. It is optional protection you can purchase and add to your plan.
How Much Will Adding It Increase My Premiums?
The cost to add-on to your policy is less expensive than other types of endorsements, like increasing your accident benefits coverage. Cost will be determined based on your driving record and any claims made previously on your policy.
What About Hit-And-Run Accidents?
It can be even more difficult to recoup fees related to injuries in cases of hit and run accidents. When the driver responsible for injuring you cannot be identified, you will be covered. This also includes situations where a driver causes you to swerve to avoid a collision and that driver gets away. If you are going to use your OPCF 44R coverage for an unidentified driver, then the onus will be on you to prove that the accident was actually caused by someone that you are unable to identify.
How do I add this coverage to my policy?
To add this endorsement, you will need to contact your insurer and fill out the OPCF 44 form. You will provide the amount and family members that will be covered under the endorsement.
Want more information on how adding Family Protection Coverage will affect your policy and premiums? Reach out to one of our isure representatives today to discuss adding this endorsement and peace of mind to your auto policy.
