ICBC has announced plans to alter the way they are currently doing auto insurance in British Columbia, shifting to the new Enhanced Care coverage.
In a press release issued from the government on Friday, it claims the Enhanced Care coverage bill will save British Columbians “an average of 20 per cent or about $400 on their auto insurance.”
ICBC says that the new coverage will provide increased care and further recovery benefits for British Columbians. The changes will include an increase on the current limit of $300,000 to a maximum of $7.5 million – ICBC states this will help cover the care people need for as long as they need it, should they be injured in the crash.
The auto insurer states the shift to the new Enhanced Care coverage will mark the largest transformation in its 40-year history.
Royal assent on the Enhanced Care bill is expected to be received on Friday, August 14.
The change over to the new coverage will begin in May 2021.
“With significantly increased benefits and supports, Enhanced Care coverage means people who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents won’t have to worry that they’ll exhaust their benefits, as they do under the current system. It will also help ensure that the focus is on the needs of injured people,” said Jane Dyson, chair, Injury Recovery Design Panel.
Some health experts are praising the additional changes for their ability to work closely with patients involved in vehicle crashes.
“We look forward to working with our patients under these changes, which are designed to provide a streamlined process, allowing patients easier access to expanded benefits and care, and helping them to recuperate faster after a motor vehicle crash. These changes make it so doctors can focus on their patient’s care and recovery, rather than on more administrative work,” said Dr. Kathleen Ross, president of Doctors of B.C.
Other stakeholders, including occupational therapists and insurance brokers, believe the Enhanced Care coverage to be a “tremendous upgrade” from the current auto insurance system being used by ICBC.
Further information on the care-based coverage can be found on the BC Government’s website.
ICBC also recently released a new comprehensive tool that showcases dangerous areas of the province that have experienced the highest volume of crashes between 2015 and 2019.
Graham Cox
