Ontario auto insurance changes for 2026 are now in effect. Since July 1, 2026, several benefits under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) are optional rather than automatically included in every policy.
Medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits remain mandatory. However, other protections—including income replacement, non-earner, caregiver, housekeeping, educational, visitor, death and funeral benefits—are now optional for policies issued or renewed under the updated rules.fsrao
What Does This Mean for Ontario Drivers?
If you are injured in a collision, your optional accident benefits coverage may affect the financial support available during recovery.
For example, an income replacement benefit after a car accident may help eligible people who cannot work because of their injuries. Eligibility, coverage limits and payment amounts depend on the policy and the circumstances of the accident.
The changes may also affect who can access optional benefits. Under the updated rules, these benefits generally apply to the named insured, their spouse, dependants and listed drivers. Pedestrians, cyclists and some passengers may not have the same protection under the optional-benefit framework.ontario
Before renewing your policy, review your statutory accident benefits coverage. Ask your insurer, agent or broker what is included, what is optional and whether workplace or private benefits overlap. You can also review FSRA’s official information about Ontario’s 2026 accident benefits changes.fsrao
Salehi Law provides information—not insurance advice—to help Ontarians understand their car accident legal rights.
If you are injured, a car accident lawyer Ontario residents trust can explain your options. Contact Salehi Law for a free consultation with an Ontario personal injury lawyer. Whether you are searching for Toronto accident lawyers or an injury lawyer Oshawa residents can contact, our team is here to help you understand your rights.