If you were hurt in a car accident in Ontario after July 1, 2026, getting treatment works a little differently than it did before. The short version: your auto insurance now pays first for accident-related physiotherapy, chiropractic and other rehab.
What changed
Ontario reformed its auto insurance on July 1, 2026. Several accident benefits, such as income replacement, became optional add-ons you choose when you buy your policy. Medical and rehabilitation benefits did not. They're still in every Ontario auto policy.
The bigger change for patients is the order of payment. Before the reform, if you had workplace benefits, you usually had to claim treatment there first and only then turn to your auto insurer. Now your auto insurer is first in line for accident-related treatment, except for medication.
Why that matters to you
- Your workplace benefits stay untouched. Your yearly massage and physio dollars are still there for everything else.
- Less back-and-forth. One insurer, one claim number, one set of forms.
- Faster start. A licensed clinic can send your treatment plan to your auto insurer right away.
The steps
- Report the accident to your auto insurer and ask to apply for accident benefits. Aim to do this within 7 days.
- Complete the application form (OCF-1) your insurer sends you and return it within 30 days.
- Book an assessment with an FSRA-licensed clinic. The clinic submits a treatment plan to your insurer through HCAI.
- Start treatment. Your auto insurer pays for approved care.
Most soft-tissue injuries, such as whiplash, sprains and strains, are treated under Ontario's Minor Injury Guideline, which has a set treatment program and funding limit. Your practitioner will tell you if your injuries need care beyond it.
How Alleve Wellness Clinic can help
We're FSRA-licensed for car accident care. We assess you, write your treatment plan and help you with the forms, with evening and Saturday appointments at 8655 Weston Rd in Vaughan. See how car accident care works at AWC.
General information only, not legal advice. Your insurer can confirm the benefits on your specific policy.