Starting July 1, 2026, Ontario has introduced important changes to the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS) that affect how medical and rehabilitation treatments are paid following a motor vehicle accident.
One of the most significant changes is that automobile insurance will now become the first payor for eligible medical and rehabilitation expenses related to a motor vehicle accident. This change is designed to help injured individuals preserve their workplace and extended health care benefits for future healthcare needs.
Before July 1, 2026, individuals injured in a motor vehicle accident were often required to use their Extended Health Care (EHC) benefits first before accessing certain accident benefits through their automobile insurance policy.
Under the new rules, eligible medical and rehabilitation expenses related to a motor vehicle accident will generally be paid by the automobile insurer first. Prescription medications remain an exception and may still be coordinated through workplace or private health insurance plans.
If you are injured in a car accident and require:
your automobile insurance may now cover these approved treatments before your workplace health benefits or private insurance plan is used.
This helps preserve your annual health benefit limits for other medical conditions and future healthcare needs.
Consider a patient who has:
Under the new rules, eligible treatment expenses may be considered under the patient's accident benefits coverage first, allowing the patient to preserve their employer-sponsored physiotherapy benefits for future use.
No.
Treatment plans must still meet the requirements of the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS). Automobile insurers continue to review treatment plans to determine whether they are reasonable and necessary for recovery.
Healthcare providers may be required to submit treatment plans and supporting clinical documentation for approval.
Research consistently shows that early intervention following a motor vehicle accident can improve recovery outcomes and reduce the risk of chronic pain and long-term disability.
If you experience symptoms such as:
after a motor vehicle accident, it is important to seek assessment and treatment as soon as possible.
At Regain Rehab Centre in Brampton, our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals injured in motor vehicle accidents.
Our services include:
We work directly with insurers, lawyers, and case managers to help patients access the treatment they need and focus on recovery.
If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and would like to learn more about your treatment options, contact Regain Rehab Centre today to schedule an assessment.
Read More:
FSRA – Changes to Statutory Accident Benefits Coverage in OntarioInsurance
Bureau of Canada – Ontario Auto Insurance Changes
RIBO – Ontario Auto Reform Overview
