What to Know about ICBC's Accident Benefits Changes
If you’re recovering from a vehicle crash, ICBC will increase the amounts that it pays for many healthcare services starting on Wednesday, May 1.
Will your ICBC’s Basic Autoplan car insurance go up because of these changes to the accident benefit system? No, car insurance premiums in British Columbia will not increase due to the improved accident benefit rates announced by ICBC. These updates apply to drivers insured through ICBC Auto Insurance across the province.
The Insurance Corporation of B.C. is adjusting rates for the following services:
- Acupuncture
- Chiropractic
- Counselling
- Massage therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physicians and psychology
The updated rates also apply to healthcare services for accidents that happened before and after May 1, 2021.
If you were injured in a vehicle crash on or after May 1, 2021, the following changes are being made to Enhanced Accident Benefits:
- Family members may be eligible for up to $4,440 in one-on-one counselling when a loved one’s injuries are severe or significantly affect them.
- ICBC will become the first payer for expenses related to covered prostheses and orthoses and medical equipment, making the claims process faster and simpler.
- The reimbursement rate for reasonable and necessary travel to receive covered services or covered rehabilitation increases to 66 cents per kilometre. This is the same rate that ICBC pays health-care providers who travel to injured patients.
The increases are intended to help address the rising costs of healthcare services.
What to know about ICBC’s no-fault system
The provincial auto insurer provides care and recovery benefits to injured drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists, no matter who was at fault for the accident, under B.C.’s ICBC no-fault insurance system.
ICBC says this system has reduced legal costs. The transition to a care-based model has largely removed legal expenses, contributed to long-term savings, and helped stabilize auto insurance premiums for British Columbia drivers.
What other changes is ICBC making?
On June 1, 2025, B.C. drivers who drive under 15,000 kilometres annually will be eligible for a new discount on their Optional insurance premium.
Drivers may save between 10% and 15% on select ICBC Optional coverages, such as collision coverage, depending on how much they drive during their one-year policy term.
These new savings will be available for drivers renewing their ICBC car insurance policies.
Why choose Western for your ICBC auto insurance:
Expertise: Our car insurance experts have extensive knowledge of ICBC Auto Insurance and can help you make informed decisions about your coverage options.
Customization: We understand that every driver has unique insurance needs. Western works with you to customize your ICBC policy to meet those needs.
Customer service: We are committed to providing excellent customer service and are always available to answer any questions you may have about your policy.
Competitive pricing: Our goal is to offer competitive pricing for ICBC insurance products, and we work with you to find coverage options that fit your budget.
Convenience: We offer a range of online and in-person services, making it easy to manage your policy, renew coverage, and make changes as needed.
What do I need to know about car insurance in British Columbia?
It’s mandatory for all B.C. drivers to purchase car insurance through ICBC to ensure a basic level of protection.
Basic Autoplan insurance includes $200,000 in third-party liability coverage. Drivers can choose to increase their protection with extended third-party liability coverage, which can expand coverage limits up to $5 million.
B.C.’s no-fault insurance model generally prevents drivers from suing the other party for compensation. You may still be able to sue if the at-fault driver is convicted of a Criminal Code offence related to the accident, such as impaired driving.
If you make a third-party liability claim against a driver who does not have enough insurance to cover the loss, Underinsured Motorist Protection (UMP) applies. Basic UMP coverage protects you and eligible household members for claims of up to $1 million per insured person.
