The policy date and the coverage choices now matter more than a generic benefits chart.

FSRA states that medical, rehabilitation and attendant-care benefits remain mandatory for policies entered into on or after July 1, 2026. Standard limits may be increased through optional coverage.1

Entitlement still depends on the SABS: the impairment, treatment evidence, classification, expenses and applicable limits all matter.3

Income replacement, non-earner, caregiver, housekeeping and home maintenance, death, funeral and several other accident benefits are optional for policies entered into on or after July 1, 2026.1

Optional benefits apply according to the policy and statutory rules. Do not infer one person’s coverage from another driver’s policy or an older online summary.

FSRA’s implementation guidance says existing policies renew with their pre-July 2026 coverages and limits until the consumer agrees to changes in writing.2 The standard Ontario policy also contains transition language for earlier SABS coverages.4

The renewal date, written elections and insurer documents need to be checked before concluding that a benefit exists or was declined.

FSRA publishes the current OPCF 47R form dealing with optional accident-benefit coverage and priority of payment.5

A premises claim needs more than proof that someone was hurt. Legal work may have to identify the correct owner, occupier or contractor and preserve evidence before the condition changes.

• Identify the people and organizations responsible for the property.
• Protect short notice requirements and disappearing maintenance evidence.
• Connect the mechanism of the fall to medical and functional loss.

See the Ottawa slip-and-fall claim strategy →