Brenda Hollingsworth’s Take on Ontario’s SABS Changes
If you’re like most folks in Ontario, you probably think you’re well-versed in car insurance—especially if you’ve been in an accident. You’ve dealt with the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule, or SABS, right? It’s the safety net for those unexpected moments when life decides to throw a curveball. We’re talking income replacement, medical bills, even housekeeping help if you need it. But guess what? Starting July 1, 2026, the whole game is about to change. And it might just have you second-guessing your coverage.
Brenda Hollingsworth, a personal injury lawyer and co-founder of Auger Hollingsworth Accident & Injury Lawyers, isn’t mincing her words about it either. She’s concerned that while these changes might seem like a sweet deal at first glance, they could actually backfire—especially for those who can’t afford to opt into certain benefits. Think about it for a second: more choice sounds good, but what happens when that choice leaves vulnerable folks out in the cold?
What’s Changing: Mandatory vs. Optional Benefits
So, here’s the scoop: the change from mandatory benefits to optional ones means you’ll actually have to pay attention when it comes time to renew your policy. You can’t just assume you’re covered. This could definitely lead to some financial blunders down the line. For instance, let’s say you’re cruising along fine, enjoying the ride. Then, bam! Accident.
Under the new rules, only medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits will be mandatory. Everything else? Optional. If you want that extra layer of protection, you’ll have to cough up the cash for it. Spoiler alert: lots of low-income individuals might skip these options, thinking they’ll save a few bucks. Hollingsworth warns that they might be opening themselves up to risky situations. She says it best: “What looks like a cost-saving measure today could become a costly gap in support when an accident happens.”
Income Replacement Benefits: A Biggie to Watch
Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of the Income Replacement Benefit. Right now, if you get into an accident, you can snag up to $400 a week—this is regardless of fault. And if you want more, you can pay extra to get it bumped up to a cool $1,000. Easy peasy, right? Well, not anymore. Under the new rules, that coverage is going to disappear unless you make a conscious decision to pay for it.
Can you believe it? If you’re self-employed or working a part-time gig without the safety net of a long-term disability policy, you could be skating on thin ice financially. I remember a guy I knew who got into a fender bender—he ended up out of work for weeks. He relied on those income benefits to keep the lights on. What happens when those benefits just vanish? Yeah, that’s a scary thought.
Cyclists and Pedestrians: An Overlooked Vulnerability
You might think car insurance is all about drivers, but what about cyclists and pedestrians? Under these new regulations, folks riding bikes or just walking along the street might find themselves in a jam. If you’re not covered by a personal policy or living with someone who has one, you’ll be left hanging with basic benefits. The kicker? You could face some serious financial stress from an accident without any optional benefits to cushion the blow.
Just the other day, I saw a cyclist get clipped by a car. The driver felt terrible, but the cyclist didn’t have any kind of insurance policy. Lucky for him, he just walked away with some scrapes, but what if it had been worse? His medical bills could have added up fast. This is where Hollingsworth’s concerns ring true. These changes impact vulnerable people in very real ways.
What About Lawsuits? The Ripple Effect
When no-fault auto insurance first rolled out, it aimed to cut down on lawsuits—give injured folks quick access to help without dragging them into court. But you know what? Hollingsworth believes the SABS updates are actually going to drive more people to lawsuits. Why? Because if someone finds themselves without income replacement coverage, what’s the next logical step? Yup, lawsuits!
People who might have been content to work within the system will now feel compelled to take their cases to court instead. Imagine an already packed court system dealing with this influx! It’s a recipe for chaos. I actually had a friend who went through this—she was in an accident, didn’t realize she had gaps in her coverage, and the next thing you know, she’s in the thick of a drawn-out lawsuit. Not exactly fun.
Be Prepared: Don’t Get Caught Off-Guard
This time next year, many drivers might get a nasty surprise. Picture this: you assume you’re fully covered, you’re good to go. Then, after an accident, you realize your benefits are way less than you expected. Total shocker. Hollingsworth urges folks to get up to speed with these changes now. Don’t wait until the last minute and find yourself in a heap of trouble.
It’s essential to be proactive. She’s got a point when she says, “I understand the complexities of the new rules and can help you navigate the system.” Speaking with someone who knows the ins and outs could be the difference between being well-supported and feeling completely lost post-accident.
FAQ: All Your Burning Questions
Are there any benefits that will still be mandatory under the new SABS?
Yes, mandatory benefits will be limited to medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits. It’s the other benefits that will become optional.
How can I ensure I’m choosing the right optional benefits?
Consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you figure out what benefits you may need based on your individual situation. It’s worth spending time researching your options.
What happens if I choose not to opt for optional benefits?
You could find yourself underinsured after an accident, which may leave you in a financial bind. It’s essential to really consider if these optional benefits are worth adding.
Are there specific groups at higher risk under the new rules?
Yes, low-income individuals, cyclists, and pedestrians are likely to be more vulnerable. They may struggle to afford optional benefits, leaving them with inadequate coverage.
What’s the best way to prepare for these changes?
Start by educating yourself about the new benefits structure. Make sure to talk to your insurance provider and consider seeking legal advice to fully understand the impacts these changes might have on you.
Wrapping It Up: Know Your Rights!
As exciting as the idea of more choices might be, there’s no doubt that these changes to the SABS could rock the boat for many drivers across Ontario. If being underinsured is not on your bucket list after an accident, better start gearing up now. It’s all about grabbing the reins and ensuring you’ve got the coverage you need—in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, don’t forget to look out for yourself.
Brenda Hollingsworth and her team are all about helping you during these twists and turns. Launching into the unknown isn’t easy, but knowing your rights and having a reliable person in your corner can make all the difference. After all, life’s too short to be left guessing what happens next after an accident.
