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 the improved accident benefit rates announced by ICBC.
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 to help address the increased 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.
ICBC says this system has reduced legal costs. The transition to a care-based model has largely removed legal costs, contributed to savings for ICBC, and potentially lowered premiums for 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% to 15% on select ICBC Optional coverages, collision coverage for example, depending on how much they drive during their one-year policy term.
These new savings will be available for drivers renewing their 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 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 our insurance products, and we work with you to find the best coverage options at a price that fits your budget.
Convenience: We offer a range of online and in-person services, making it easy for you to manage your policy 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 buy car insurance from ICBC to ensure that they are protected with a basic level of coverage.
Basic Autoplan insurance for ICBC 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 up to $5 million.
B.C.’s no-fault insurance model generally prevents a driver from suing the other driver for compensation. You can still sue if the other 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 the person who's responsible for a car crash and they don't have enough insurance to pay for your claim, Underinsured Motorist Protection (UMP) covers you. Basic underinsured motorist protection covers you and members of your household for claims of up to $1 million per insured person.
