Understanding No-fault Auto Insurance in Ontario – Minor Injury Guideline

This past week has seen a tremendous amount of on-line discussion about how the recent changes to no-fault insurance have affected ordinary Ontarians who are involved in car, truck, motorcycle or SUV accidents.  One of the major changes was the introduction of the Minor Injury Guideline (MIG).

Minor Injury Guideline

According to FSCO , these guidelines were designed to speed access to rehabilitation, provide certainty around payment to insurance companies and provide immediate access to treatment without the insurance company’s approval.  As defined in the legislation, minor injuries include, among other things, sprains, whiplash associated disorder and even a partially dislocated joint.

How are my Benefits Affected?

If your injury is covered by the MIG, your access to medical treatment and rehabilitation benefits is limited to $3,500.00, even if you have purchased Optional Insurance .  As well, the legislation anticipates that your treatment will typically not exceed 12 weeks.   Other benefits, such as the availability of Attendant Care, will also be impacted if your injuries are subject to the MIG.

There are circumstances in which a motorist who has suffered a minor injury will not be subject to the MIG.  Given the dramatic reduction in amount and typical duration of benefits available under the MIG, it is imperative you speak with a person knowledgeable about the MIG if you have suffered what is considered to be a minor injury in a car accident.

View previous posts in our No Fault Series:

• Understanding no-fault benefits in Ontario
• Understanding no-fault benefits in Ontario – Standard vs. Optional Benefits

Our team of experienced Ontario personal injury lawyers have the expertise to ensure you are accessing all the no fault benefits available to you and would be pleased to sit down with you in your home town for a free initial consultation.