The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) provides basic, public auto insurance and optional additional coverage to countless Canadian motorists. In the event of an accident, you can currently hire a lawyer to help you sue the at-fault driver and obtain maximum compensation during the claims process. However, the company hopes to adopt a no-fault insurance model in 2021 as part of its Enhanced Care coverage, pending approval by the Legislative Assembly.
Under this new insurance model, you will not be able to sue the at-fault driver in most situations. The company has expressed that this change will nearly eliminate legal costs, allowing it to increase benefits and decrease premiums. While Enhanced Care coverage may offer certain advantages, it is largely unbeneficial to the general public.
The Problem with No-Fault Insurance
Under a no-fault insurance policy, every injured citizen will have to deal directly with ICBC without legal guidance or support. This can be difficult since corporations act in the interest of profits, and you may not be equipped to advocate for yourself when disputes arise.
Arguably, the biggest problem with the new system is that you will not receive a lump-sum settlement to use according to your needs. You may need to submit ongoing, troublesome proof that you meet eligibility criteria in order to continue collecting various forms of compensation, including wage-loss support. It may be difficult to obtain coverage for beneficial treatments such as massage therapy if they do not objectively improve your injury. Similarly, you may not be able to get coverage for certain medicines.
The drawbacks associated with no-fault insurance, including ongoing interactions with adjusters, paperwork, the pressure to return to work, and treatment rejections can negatively impact your quality of life after a car accident. Ultimately, unnecessary red tape will likely stand in the way of your best interests.
Contact Our ICBC Injury Claims Lawyers Today
If you have questions about no-fault insurance, our lawyers at Stephens & Holman are available to help. You may still have options for taking legal action against a negligent or dangerous driver if these changes take effect.
Call us today at 604-730-4120 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We have 25 office locations throughout Greater Vancouver and surrounding areas of British Columbia.