R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664: AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE, Insurance Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. I.8

Insurance Act

R.R.O. 1990, REGULATION 664

AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE

Historical version for the period August 26, 2015 to March 3, 2016.

Last amendment: O. Reg. 250/15.

This is the English version of a bilingual regulation.

CONTENTS

 

 

Sections

 

Definitions

1-2

 

Monthly Premium Payments (Section 234 of the Act)

3

 

Exemption from Notice (Section 236 of the Act)

4

 

Refusal to Issue Contracts (Section 237 of the Act)

5

 

Added Coverage to Offset Tort Deductibles Endorsement

5.1

 

Direct Compensation — Property Damage (Clause 263 (5) (b) of the Act)

6-8.1

 

Indemnification for Statutory Accident Benefits (Section 275 of the Act)

9

 

Settlements — Statutory Accident Benefits

9.1-9.2

 

Dispute Resolution (Sections 280 to 284 of the Act)

10-14

 

Prescribed Elements of Risk Classification System (Sections 410 to 417 of the Act)

14.1

 

Application of Sections 410 to 417 of the Act

15

 

Expedited Risk Classification and Rate Approval (Section 411 of the Act)

15.1

 

Prohibited Risk Classification Elements (Sections 410 to 417 of the Act)

16

 

Group Marketing Plans

17

 

Public Adjusters — Statutory Accident Benefits (Section 398 of the Act)

18-19

Schedule

Dispute resolution expenses (subsection 282 (11) of the act)

1-7

Definitions

1. In this Regulation,

“commercial vehicle” means an automobile used primarily to transport materials, goods, tools or equipment in connection with the insured’s occupation, and includes a police department vehicle, a fire department vehicle, a driver training vehicle, a vehicle designed specifically for construction or maintenance purposes, a vehicle rented for thirty days or less, or a trailer intended for use with a commercial vehicle; (“véhicule utilitaire”)

“fleet” means a group of not less than five automobiles,

(a) that are under common ownership or management,

(b) of which at least five are commercial vehicles, public vehicles or vehicles used for business purposes, and

(c) of which any that are subject to a lease agreement for a period in excess of 30 days are leased to the same insured person; (“parc automobile”)

“public vehicle” means an automobile used primarily to provide transportation services to the public, and includes an ambulance, bus, funeral vehicle, limousine or taxi. (“véhicule public”)  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 2; O. Reg. 275/03, s. 1.

2. Revoked:  O. Reg. 391/02, s. 1.

Monthly Premium Payments (Section 234 of the Act)

3. (1) This section applies with respect to statutory condition 3 as set out in the Schedule to Ontario Regulation 777/93.  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 3 (1).

(2) An insurer is not required to permit an insured to pay the premium in instalments unless all of the following conditions are met:

1. The insurer, together with its affiliates, insured at least 10,000 private passenger automobiles in Ontario during the previous year.

2. The contract is written on Ontario Automobile Policy 1 or Ontario Policy Form 2.

3. The contract does not insure a commercial vehicle or public vehicle.

4. The contract does not insure five or more vehicles that are under common ownership or management.

5. The total annual premium payable under the contract exceeds $300.

6. The insured has not had more than one automobile insurance policy terminated by an insurer for non-payment of the premium during the thirty-six months before the contract takes effect.  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 3 (1); O. Reg. 464/96, s. 2.

(3) Revoked:  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 3 (1).

(4) As a precondition for permitting an insured to pay the premium in instalments, an insurer may require that the insured,

(a) make an initial payment equal to two monthly instalments of the premium; and

(b) agree to make all payments under the contract by pre-authorized payment from the insured’s account at a financial institution.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 3 (4).

(5) The maximum interest rate that an insurer may charge for instalment payments in respect of a contract entered into or renewed before July 1, 1994 is 3 per cent of the total premium payable under a contract.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 3 (5); O. Reg. 780/93, s. 3 (2).

Note: On June 1, 2016, subsection 3 (5) of the Regulation is revoked. (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 1 (1))

(5.1) The maximum interest rate that an insurer may charge for instalment payments in respect of a contract entered into on or after July 1, 1994 is,

Note: On June 1, 2016, subsection 3 (5.1) of the Regulation is amended by striking out “entered into on or after July 1, 1994” in the portion before clause (a) and substituting “entered into or renewed before June 1, 2016”. (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 1 (2))

(a) 3 per cent of the total premium payable under the contract, if the term of the contract is twelve months or more;

(b) 1.5 per cent of the total premium payable under the contract, if the term of the contract is six months or more but less than twelve months; and

(c) 0.5 per cent of the total premium payable under the contract, if the term of the contract is less than six months.  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 3 (3).

Note: On June 1, 2016, section 3 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following subsection: (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 1 (3))

(5.2) The maximum interest rate that an insurer may charge for instalment payments in respect of a contract entered into or renewed on or after June 1, 2016 is,

(a) 1.3 per cent of the total premium payable under the contract, if the term of the contract is twelve months or more;

(b) 0.65 per cent of the total premium payable under the contract, if the term of the contract is six months or more but less than twelve months; and

(c) 0.22 per cent of the total premium payable under the contract, if the term of the contract is less than six months. O. Reg. 250/15, s. 1 (3).

(6) The amount of each instalment payment shall be calculated as blended principal and interest.

(7) An insurer who is not required to permit its insureds to pay their premiums in instalments but who chooses to do so is subject to the same requirements as those insurers who are required to permit their insureds to pay their premiums in instalments.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 3 (6, 7).

Exemption from Notice (Section 236 of the Act)

4. Insurers are exempt from the requirements of section 236 of the Act with respect to every contract of automobile insurance that insures a fleet.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 2.

Refusal to Issue Contracts (Section 237 of the Act)

5. (1) No insurer shall decline to issue, refuse to renew or terminate any contract of automobile insurance or refuse to provide or continue any coverage or endorsement solely because,

(a) the applicant or another person who would be an insured person under the contract is or was insured by the Facility Association; or

(b) another insurer declined to issue or renew another contract of automobile insurance for the applicant or another person who would be an insured person under the contract.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 5 (1).

(2) In deciding whether to issue, renew or terminate any contract of automobile insurance or to provide or continue any coverage or endorsement, the insurer shall not consider,

(a) the existence of a physical or mental disability affecting a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(b) the number of persons who would become insured persons under the contract or their state of health or life expectancy;

(c) the occupation, profession or employment circumstances of any person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d) the level of income of any person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.1) the employment history of a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.2) the fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract has a credit card;

(d.3) the credit history of a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.4) the credit rating of a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.5) the fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract is bankrupt or has a history of bankruptcy;

(d.6) the residence history of a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.7) the fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract owns a home;

(d.8) the gross or net worth of a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.9) the indebtedness of a person who would be an insured person under the contract;

(d.10) the fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract has made premium payments that were late or dishonoured in respect of a contract of automobile insurance that was not terminated by reason of the late or dishonoured payments;

(e) the existence or non-existence of a medical, surgical, dental or hospitalization plan or any other arrangement or plan providing coverage to a person who would be an insured person under the contract for services and treatment that the insurer would otherwise be required to pay for under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule;

(f) the existence or non-existence of an income continuation benefit plan, a sick leave plan or any other arrangement or plan providing coverage to a person who would be an insured person under the contract for benefits that the insurer would otherwise be required to pay for under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule;

(g) a request by the applicant to purchase any optional benefit established under paragraph 10 of subsection 121 (1) of the Act;

(h) any past claim under Schedule C of the Act or under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule arising out of an incident for which a person who would be an insured person under the contract was not at fault; or

(i) any past claim under section 263 of the Act for loss or damage, arising directly or indirectly from the use or operation of an automobile, for which a person who would be an insured person under the contract was not at fault.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 5 (2); O. Reg. 780/93, ss. 1, 4; O. Reg. 46/05, s. 1.

Note: On June 1, 2016, section 5 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following subsections: (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 2 (1))

(2.1) Subject to subsection (2.2), for the Personal Vehicles — Private Passenger Automobiles category of automobile insurance, in deciding whether to issue, renew or terminate any contract of automobile insurance or to provide or continue any coverage or endorsement, the insurer shall not consider a minor accident that occurred on or after June 1, 2016. O. Reg. 250/15, s. 2 (1).

(2.2) An insurer may consider a minor accident that occurred on or after June 1, 2016 if, within the previous three years, any automobiles that were or would be covered by the contract of automobile insurance were involved in a total of more than one minor accident and, in any of those accidents, the driver of that automobile was at fault. O. Reg. 250/15, s. 2 (1).

(2.3) For the purposes of subsections (2.1) and (2.2), an accident is a minor accident if all of the following circumstances exist:

1. The cost of damage to each automobile, including any associated property damage, did not exceed $2,000 and the cost of all such damages was paid by or on behalf of the driver who was at fault.

2. No personal injuries were sustained as a result of the accident.

3. No payment was made by any insurer with respect to damage to any automobile or property resulting from the accident. O. Reg. 250/15, s. 2 (1).

(3) In deciding whether to issue, renew or terminate a contract providing only third party liability coverage in any amount and the benefits and coverages described in subsection 265 (1) (uninsured automobile coverage) and section 268 (statutory accident benefits) of the Act, the insurer shall not consider whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract has made any past claim for loss or damage to an automobile, including its equipment, caused by any peril other than collision or upset.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 5 (3); O. Reg. 780/93, s. 1.

(4) An insurer shall not terminate a contract of automobile insurance because,

(a) a group marketing plan within the meaning of section 17 terminates; or

(b) the insured ceases to be a member of a group referred to in clause 16 (5) (a) or (b).  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 1.

Added Coverage to Offset Tort Deductibles Endorsement

5.1 (1) If requested by an insured in respect of a contract of automobile insurance, the insurer shall offer the “Added Coverage to Offset Tort Deductibles” endorsement, as approved by the Superintendent under section 227 of the Act.  O. Reg. 36/10, s. 1.

(2) Benefits provided by the endorsement referred to in subsection (1) are deemed not to be statutory accident benefits for the purpose of Part VI of the Act.  O. Reg. 36/10, s. 1.

Direct Compensation — Property Damage (Clause 263 (5) (b) of the Act)

6. (1) For the purpose of clause 263 (5) (b) of the Act, the insurer of an automobile that is in the care, custody or control of a person who is engaged in the business of selling, repairing, maintaining, servicing, storing or parking automobiles is entitled to indemnification from the person.

(2) The amount of the indemnity is limited to that proportion of the loss that is attributable to the fault, as determined under the fault determination rules, of the person or of an employee or agent of the person.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 6.

7. (1) For the purpose of clause 263 (5) (b) of the Act, the insurer of an automobile that is being towed by another automobile is entitled to indemnification from the lessee or, if there is no lessee, from the owner of the automobile towing it,

(a) if the lessee or owner, as the case may be, is engaged in the business of towing automobiles; or

(b) if the automobile towing the insured automobile has a gross vehicle weight greater than 4,500 kilograms.

(2) The amount of the indemnity is limited to that proportion of the loss that is attributable to the fault, as determined under the fault determination rules, of the driver of the automobile that is towing the insured automobile.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 7.

8. (1) For the purpose of clause 263 (5) (b) of the Act, the insurer of an automobile the contents of which suffer damage in an amount greater than $20,000 is entitled to indemnification from the insurer of the other automobile involved in the incident.

(2) The amount of the indemnity is limited to that proportion of the loss over $20,000 that is attributable to the fault, as determined under the fault determination rules, of the driver of the other automobile.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 8.

8.1 The following classes of contracts are prescribed for the purpose of subsection 263 (5.1) of the Act:

1. Contracts written on Ontario Automobile Policy 1.

2. Contracts written on Ontario Policy Form 4.  O. Reg. 399/96, s. 1.

Indemnification for Statutory Accident Benefits (Section 275 of the Act)

9. (1) In this section,

“first party insurer” means the insurer responsible under subsection 268 (2) of the Act for the payment of statutory accident benefits; (“assureur de première part”)

“heavy commercial vehicle” means a commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle weight greater than 4,500 kilograms; (“véhicule utilitaire lourd”)

“motorcycle” means a self-propelled vehicle with a seat or saddle for the use of the driver, steered by handlebars and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, and includes a motor scooter and a motor assisted bicycle as defined in the Highway Traffic Act; (“motocyclette”)

“motorized snow vehicle” means a motorized snow vehicle as defined in the Motorized Snow Vehicles Act; (“motoneige”)

“off-road vehicle” means an off-road vehicle as defined in the Off-Road Vehicles Act; (“véhicule tout terrain”)

“second party insurer” means an insurer required under section 275 of the Act to indemnify the first party insurer. (“assureur de deuxième part”)  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 9 (1); O. Reg. 780/93, ss. 1, 6.

(2) A second party insurer under a policy insuring any class of automobile other than motorcycles, off-road vehicles and motorized snow vehicles is obligated under section 275 of the Act to indemnify a first party insurer,

(a) if the person receiving statutory accident benefits from the first party insurer is claiming them under a policy insuring a motorcycle and,

(i) if the motorcycle was involved in the incident out of which the responsibility to pay statutory accident benefits arises, or

(ii) if motorcycles and motorized snow vehicles are the only types of vehicle insured under the policy; or

(b) if the person receiving statutory accident benefits from the first party insurer is claiming them under a policy insuring a motorized snow vehicle and,

(i) if the motorized snow vehicle was involved in the incident out of which the responsibility to pay statutory accident benefits arises, or

(ii) if motorcycles and motorized snow vehicles are the only types of vehicle insured under the policy.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 9 (2); O. Reg. 780/93, s. 1.

(3) A second party insurer under a policy insuring a heavy commercial vehicle is obligated under section 275 of the Act to indemnify a first party insurer unless the person receiving statutory accident benefits from the first party insurer is claiming them under a policy insuring a heavy commercial vehicle.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 9 (3); O. Reg. 780/93, s. 1.

Settlements — Statutory Accident Benefits

9.1 (1) In this section,

“settlement” means an agreement between an insurer and an insured person that finally disposes of a claim or dispute in respect of the insured person’s entitlement to one or more benefits under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule.  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 7.

(2) The insurer shall give the insured person a written disclosure notice, signed by the insurer, with respect to the settlement.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(3) The disclosure notice shall be in a form approved by the Superintendent and shall contain the following information:

1. The insurer’s offer with respect to the settlement.

2. A description of the benefits that may be available to the insured person under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule.

3. A statement that the insured person may, within two business days after the later of the day the insured person signs the disclosure notice and the day the insured person signs the release, rescind the settlement by delivering a written notice to the office of the insurer or its representative and returning any money received by the insured person as consideration for the settlement.

4. A description of the consequences of the settlement on the benefits described under paragraph 2 including,

i. a statement of the restrictions contained in the settlement on the insured person’s right to mediate, litigate, arbitrate, appeal or apply to vary an order under sections 280 to 284 of the Act, and

ii. a statement that the tax implications of the settlement may be different from the tax implications of the benefits described under paragraph 2.

5. A statement advising the insured person to consider seeking independent legal, financial and medical advice before entering into the settlement.

6. A statement for signature by the insured person acknowledging that he or she has read the disclosure notice and considered seeking independent legal, financial and medical advice before entering into the settlement.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(4) The insured person may rescind the settlement within two business days after the later of the day the insured person signs the disclosure notice and the day the insured person signs the release.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(5) The insured person may rescind the settlement after the period referred to in subsection (4) if the insurer has not complied with subsections (2) and (3).  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(6) Subsections (4) and (5) do not apply with respect to a settlement that has been approved by a court under Rule 7 of the Rules of Civil Procedure (Parties under Disability).  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(7) The insured person shall rescind a settlement under subsection (4) or (5) by delivering a written notice to the office of the insurer or its representative and returning any money received by the insured person as consideration for the settlement.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(8) No person may commence a mediation proceeding under section 280 of the Act with respect to benefits that were the subject of a settlement or a purported settlement unless the person has returned the money received as consideration for the settlement.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(9) If the insured person returns money to the insurer under subsection (7) or (8) and a dispute arises between the insurer and the insured person with respect to the validity of the purported settlement or the right of the insured person to rescind the settlement, the insurer shall hold the money in trust until the matter is determined, at which time the amount and any income on the amount,

(a) shall be paid to the insured, if it is determined or agreed that there was a valid settlement that was not rescinded; and

(b) shall be returned to the insurer, if it is determined or agreed that there was no settlement, or that the settlement was invalid or was rescinded.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1.

(10) A restriction on an insured person’s right to mediate, litigate, arbitrate, appeal or apply to vary an order under sections 280 to 284 of the Act is not void under subsection 279 (2) of the Act if,

(a) the restriction is contained in a settlement;

(b) the settlement is entered into on or after the first anniversary of the day of the accident that gave rise to the claim; and

(c) the insurer complied with subsections (2) and (3).  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 1; O. Reg. 275/03, s. 3 (1).

(11) Despite clause (10) (b), a restriction contained in a settlement entered into before the first anniversary of the day of the accident that gave rise to the claim is not void under subsection 279 (2) of the Act if, in respect of the claim,

(a) the insured person brought a proceeding in a court of competent jurisdiction under clause 281 (1) (a) of the Act and examinations for discovery have commenced;

(b) the insured person referred the issues in dispute to an arbitrator under clause 281 (1) (b) of the Act and a pre-hearing conference has been completed; or

(c) the insurer and the insured agreed under clause 281 (1) (c) of the Act to submit the issues in dispute for arbitration in accordance with the Arbitration Act, 1991 and an arbitration agreement under that Act has been entered into.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 3 (2).

(12) Clause (10) (b) and subsection (11) apply to claims that have not settled before October 1, 2003, unless a disclosure notice under subsection (2) in respect of the settlement or purported settlement was given to the insured person before that date.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 3 (2).

9.2 (1) Subsections 9.1 (2) to (8) apply only with respect to settlements made on or after March 1, 2002.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 2.

(2) Subsections 9.1 (2) to (5), as they read on February 28, 2002, continue to apply with respect to settlements for which written notice under subsection 9.1 (2) was given before March 1, 2002.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 2.

(3) Despite subsections (1) and (2), subsection 9.1 (8) applies with respect to an application for a mediation proceeding under section 280 of the Act if the application is filed on or after March 1, 2002.  O. Reg. 483/01, s. 2.

Dispute Resolution (Sections 280 to 284 of the Act)

10. A mediator is required, under subsection 280 (4) of the Act, to attempt to effect a settlement of a dispute within sixty days after the date on which the application for the appointment of a mediator is filed.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 10.

11. Revoked:  O. Reg. 301/98, s. 2.

12. (1) The expenses set out in the Schedule are prescribed for the purpose of subsection 282 (11) of the Act.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 12.

(2) An arbitrator shall, under subsection 282 (11) of the Act, consider only the following criteria for the purposes of awarding all or part of the expenses incurred in respect of an arbitration proceeding:

1. Each party’s degree of success in the outcome of the proceeding.

2. Any written offers to settle made in accordance with subsection (3).

3. Whether novel issues are raised in the proceeding.

4. The conduct of a party or a party’s representative that tended to prolong, obstruct or hinder the proceeding, including a failure to comply with undertakings and orders.

5. Whether any aspect of the proceeding was improper, vexatious or unnecessary.

6. Whether the insured person refused or failed to submit to an examination as required under section 42 of Ontario Regulation 403/96 (Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule — Accidents on or after November 1, 1996) made under the Act or refused or failed to provide any material required to be provided by subsection 42 (10) of that regulation.

7. Whether the insured person refused or failed to submit to an examination as required under section 44 of Ontario Regulation 34/10 (Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule — Effective September 1, 2010), made under the Act, or refused or failed to provide any material required to be provided under subsection 44 (9) of that regulation.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 4; O. Reg. 548/05, s. 1; O. Reg. 36/10, s. 2.

(3) Upon the request of the insurer or the insured person, the arbitrator shall, for the purposes of awarding expenses, take into account all written offers to settle, if any,

(a) that were made after the conclusion of mediation and before the conclusion of the arbitration; and

(b) that were made in accordance with the rules of practice and procedure applicable to the proceeding.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 4.

(4) If the arbitrator is requested to take into account a written offer under subsection (3), the arbitrator shall have regard to the terms of the offer, the timing of the offer, the response to the offer and the result of the proceeding.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 4.

13. Despite section 9.1 of the Statutory Powers Procedure Act, an arbitrator or, in the case of appeals or applications for variation or revocation, the Director of Arbitrations does not require the consent of the parties,

(a) to combine two or more proceedings or any part of them; or

(b) to hear two or more proceedings at the same time.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 5.

14. Revoked:  O. Reg. 301/98, s. 2.

Prescribed Elements of Risk Classification System (Sections 410 to 417 of the Act)

14.1 (1) For the purposes of section 260 of the Act, insurers shall use the following elements of a risk classification system in classifying risks for loss or damage to an automobile or loss of its use:

1. A deductible of $300 for contracts issued or renewed before April 15, 2004, unless the contract provides for a different amount.

Note: On June 1, 2016, paragraph 1 of subsection 14.1 (1) of the Regulation is revoked. (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 3 (1))

2. For collision or upset coverage, as referred to in the standard policy forms approved by the Superintendent under subsection 227 (5) of the Act, a deductible of $500 for contracts issued or renewed on or after April 15, 2004, unless the contract provides for a different amount.

3. For comprehensive coverage, as referred to in the standard policy forms approved by the Superintendent under subsection 227 (5) of the Act, a deductible of $300 for contracts issued or renewed on or after April 15, 2004, unless the contract provides for a different amount.  O. Reg. 459/03, s. 1.

Note: On June 1, 2016, paragraph 3 of subsection 14.1 (1) of the Regulation is revoked and the following substituted: (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 3 (2))

3. For comprehensive coverage, as referred to in the standard policy forms approved by the Superintendent under subsection 227 (5) of the Act,

i. a deductible of $300 for contracts issued or renewed on or after April 15, 2004 and before June 1, 2016, unless the contract provides for a different amount, and

ii. a deductible of $500 for contracts issued or renewed on or after June 1, 2016, unless the contract provides for a different amount.

(2) Insurers shall use the following elements in their risk classification systems in classifying risks for damage to an automobile or its contents or loss of its use:

1. For contracts issued or renewed on or after April 15, 2004 and before September 1, 2010, $300 as the amount of the reduction referred to in clause 263 (5.1) (b) of the Act, unless the contract provides for a different amount.

2. For contracts issued or renewed on or after September 1, 2010, $500 as the amount of the reduction referred to in clause 263 (5.1) (b) of the Act, unless the contract provides for a different amount.  O. Reg. 36/10, s. 3.

(3) Insurers shall use the following element in their risk classification systems in classifying risks for the Personal Vehicles — Private Passenger Automobiles category of automobile insurance:

1. For contracts issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2016, a discount in the rate of insurance in respect of an automobile that is equipped with winter tires. O. Reg. 222/15, s. 1.

Application of Sections 410 to 417 of the Act

15. (1) Sections 410 to 417 of the Act apply in respect of contracts of automobile insurance written on Ontario Automobile Policy 1 or Ontario Policy Form 2.  O. Reg. 464/96, s. 5 (2).

(2) Sections 410 to 417 of the Act apply in respect of all types of endorsements to contracts of automobile insurance written on Ontario Automobile Policy 1 or Ontario Policy Form 2.  O. Reg. 464/96, s. 5 (2).

(3) Despite subsections (1) and (2), sections 410 to 417 of the Act do not apply to any contract of automobile insurance that insures a fleet.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 6.

Expedited Risk Classification and Rate Approval (Section 411 of the Act)

15.1 (1) The percentage prescribed for the purpose of paragraph 1 of subsection 411 (1) of the Act is, for each coverage and category of automobile insurance, the percentage difference between the average of the insurer’s existing rates for that coverage and category and the average of the insurer’s proposed rates.  O. Reg. 464/96, s. 6.

(2) For the purpose of paragraph 1 of subsection 411 (1) of the Act, the proposed rates must meet the following additional criteria:

1. The proposed rates relate only to the Personal Vehicles — Private Passenger Automobiles category of automobile insurance.

2. The effective date of the proposed rates for the insurer’s renewal business is on or after January 1, 1997.

3. The average cumulative rate change for all coverages, calculated in accordance with the Section 411/412 Filing Guidelines published by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario, as they may be amended from time to time, is less than or equal to zero.

4. The percentage difference, for each territory used by the insurer, between the average of the existing rates for each coverage and the average of the proposed rates for that coverage is not more than 5 per cent higher or lower than the percentage difference, for all of Ontario, between the average of the existing rates for that coverage and the average of the proposed rates for that coverage.

5. No changes are proposed to the rating algorithm, differentials, discounts or surcharges used to determine the proposed rates.  O. Reg. 464/96, s. 6; O. Reg. 301/98, s. 1; O. Reg. 222/15, s. 2.

(3) For the purpose of paragraph 2 of subsection 411 (1) of the Act, the proposed risk classification system may not contain,

(a) any new element; or

(b) any existing element that uses a different definition or different rating rules.  O. Reg. 464/96, s. 6.

Prohibited Risk Classification Elements (Sections 410 to 417 of the Act)

16. (1) Insurers are prohibited from using elements of a risk classification system described in this section in classifying risks for any coverage or category of automobile insurance.  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 8 (1).

(2) No element of a risk classification system shall use past claims arising out of accidents occurring on or after September 1, 2010 for which an insured person was 25 per cent or less at fault.  O. Reg. 36/10, s. 4.

(3) No element of a risk classification system shall use the existence or non-existence of a medical, surgical, dental or hospitalization plan or any other arrangement or plan providing coverage to a person who would be an insured person under the contract for services and treatment that the insurer would otherwise be required to pay for under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 16 (3); O. Reg. 780/93, ss. 1, 8 (3).

(4) No element of a risk classification system shall use the existence or non-existence of an income continuation plan, a sick leave plan or any other arrangement or plan providing coverage to a person who would be an insured person under the contract for benefits that the insurer would otherwise be required to pay for under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule.  R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, s. 16 (4); O. Reg. 780/93, ss. 1, 8 (4).

(4.1) No element of a risk classification system shall use a lapse in automobile insurance coverage unless,

(a) the insured person contravened section 2 of the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act during the lapse in coverage; or

(b) the lapse of coverage resulted directly or indirectly from,

(i) the termination of a policy of automobile insurance as a result of the insured person’s failure to pay the premiums due under the policy,

(ii) the suspension of the insured person’s driver’s licence as a result of a conviction for an offence related to the use or operation of an automobile, or

(iii) an accident or a conviction for an offence related to the use or operation of an automobile, if the insured person did not inform the insurer of the accident or conviction and the accident or conviction would likely have led to the insured person being charged a higher premium.  O. Reg. 464/96, s. 7 (2).

(4.2) Except as permitted under subsection (5), no element of a risk classification system shall use any of the following factors:

Note: On June 1, 2016, subsection 16 (4.2) is amended by striking out “under subsection (5)” in the portion before paragraph 1 and substituting “under subsection (4.3) or (5)”. (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 4 (1))

1. The level of income of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

2. The employment history of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

3. The occupation, profession or employment circumstances of a person who would be an insured person under the contract, unless the contract is in respect of a commercial vehicle or a public vehicle or a vehicle used in the course of carrying on a business, trade or profession.

4. The fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract has a credit card.

5. The credit history of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

6. The credit rating of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

7. The fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract is bankrupt or has a history of bankruptcy.

8. The residence history of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

9. The fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract owns a home.

10. The gross or net worth of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

11. The indebtedness of a person who would be an insured person under the contract.

12. The fact whether a person who would be an insured person under the contract has made premium payments that were late or dishonoured in respect of a contract of automobile insurance that was not terminated by reason of the late or dishonoured payments.  O. Reg. 46/05, s. 2.

Note: On June 1, 2016, subsection 16 (4.2) of the Regulation is amended by adding the following paragraph: (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 4 (2))

13. A minor accident that occurred on or after June 1, 2016.

Note: On June 1, 2016, section 16 of the Regulation is amended by adding the following subsections: (See: O. Reg. 250/15, s. 4 (3))

(4.3) The factor described in paragraph 13 of subsection (4.2) may be used in an element of a risk classification system if, within the previous three years, any automobiles that were or would be covered by the contract of automobile insurance were involved in a total of more than one minor accident and, in any of those accidents, the driver of that automobile was at fault. O. Reg. 250/15, s. 4 (3).

(4.4) For the purposes of subsections (4.2) and (4.3), an accident is a minor accident if all of the following circumstances exist:

1. The cost of damage to each automobile, including any associated property damage, did not exceed $2,000 and the cost of all such damages was paid by or on behalf of the driver who was at fault.

2. No personal injuries were sustained as a result of the accident.

3. No payment was made by any insurer with respect to damage to any automobile or property resulting from the accident. O. Reg. 250/15, s. 4 (3).

(5) Membership in an organized group shall not be used as an element of a risk classification system unless the group consists of no fewer than 100 members other than associate members of the group, a group marketing plan has been entered into that meets the requirements of section 17 and the group is,

(a) a trade union, a professional or occupational association or an alumni association;

(b) a non-profit entity that has been in existence for at least 24 months;

(c) a group of employees of the same employer; or

(d) a group of members of a credit union that satisfies the requirements of subsection (7).  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(6) An organization formed primarily for the purpose of purchasing or providing goods or services does not constitute a non-profit entity for the purposes of clause (5) (b).  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(7) A group of members of a credit union constitute an organized group for the purposes of clause (5) (d) if the following rules are satisfied:

1. The bond of association in respect of the credit union for the purposes of subsection 30 (1) of the Credit Unions and Caisses Populaires Act, 1994 is a common bond of occupation or association referred to in clause 30 (2) (a) of that Act.

2. The members of the credit union who belong to the group are,

i. employees of the same employer,

ii. members of the same trade union, or

iii. members of the same professional or occupational association.

3. The group of members does not include any person admitted to the credit union who does not come within the common bond of association described in paragraph 1, unless the person is an associate member of the group under subsection (8), (9) or (10).  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(8) Despite paragraph 2 of subsection (7), the following persons may be included in an organized group described in clause (5) (d) in respect of a particular credit union, but only as associate members of the group:

1. Employees of the credit union.

2. Retired employees of the credit union who receive or are entitled to receive retirement benefits from the credit union.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(9) Retired employees of the same employer who receive or are entitled to receive retirement benefits from the employer may be included in a group referred to in clause (5) (c) or subparagraph 2 i of subsection (7), but only as associate members of the group.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(10) Each of the following persons may be included in a group referred to in clause (5) (a), (b), (c) or (d), but only as an associate member of the group:

1. The spouse of a member or associate member of the group.

2. A person under 25 years of age who is a child of a member or associate member of the group or of the spouse of a member or associate member of the group and,

i. resides in the same dwelling as the member or associate member, or the spouse of the member or associate member, as the case may be, or

ii. attends an educational institution on a full-time basis.

3. The spouse of a child described in paragraph 2.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7; O. Reg. 316/05, s. 1 (1-4).

(11) A risk classification system shall not include an element that results in the exclusion of a member or associate member of an organized group referred to in subsection (5) for the purposes of risk classification if,

(a) the insurance is sold under a group marketing plan within the meaning of section 17; and

(b) coverage is for a private passenger vehicle within the meaning of the Plan of Operation established by the Facility Association under subsection 7 (3) of the Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(12) No element of a risk classification system shall result in a change in the classification of an insured before the next renewal date of the insured’s policy because,

(a) a group marketing plan within the meaning of section 17 terminates; or

(b) the insured ceases to be a member or associate member of an organized group referred to in subsection (5).  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(13) Subject to subsection (12), no element of a risk classification system that uses membership in an organized group referred to in subsection (5) shall apply to an insured who ceases to be a member or associate member of the group.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(14) An organized group that met the requirements of this section and section 17 as they read on September 30, 2003 shall be deemed to meet the requirements of this section and section 17 after that day if,

(a) membership in the group was an element of a risk classification system before October 1, 2003; and

(b) a group marketing plan has been entered into that meets the requirements of section 17.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7.

(15) In this section,

“credit union” means a credit union as defined in section 1 of the Credit Unions and Caisses Populaires Act, 1994; (“caisse populaire”)

“spouse” has the same meaning as in Part VI of the Act. (“conjoint”)  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 7; O. Reg. 316/05, s. 1 (5).

Group Marketing Plans

17. (1) In this section,

“group marketing plan” means an arrangement made in writing between an insurer and a sponsor to market automobile insurance to members of an organized group referred to in subsection 16 (5); (“plan de commercialisation de groupe”)

“sponsor” means a person who is authorized to enter into a group marketing plan on behalf of an organized group referred to in subsection 16 (5). (“parrain”)  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 8 (1).

(1.1) A group marketing plan shall include the details of the arrangement, including,

(a) the name of the insurer and the name of the sponsor or sponsors and their respective responsibilities;

(b) the name of the broker or agent;

(c) the effective date of the group marketing plan;

(d) information with respect to fees;

(e) whether or not the group marketing plan is made to the exclusion of another group marketing plan with respect to the group; and

(f) the procedure for terminating the group marketing plan.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 8 (1).

(2) An insurer shall not sell automobile insurance under a group marketing plan if any person is required to purchase insurance under the plan or is subject to a penalty for failing to purchase insurance under the plan.  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 3.

(3) An insurer, agent or broker who sells automobile insurance under a group marketing plan shall not accept an application from a person for insurance coverage unless, not later than 30 days after accepting the application, the insurer, agent or broker makes full and fair disclosure in writing to the person of all features of the group marketing plan and the insurance coverage, including,

(a) the group marketing plan’s provisions relating to group discounts, policyholder services, termination of the plan and termination of eligibility; and

(b) the financial interests of the sponsor in the group marketing plan.  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 3; O. Reg. 275/03, s. 8 (2, 3).

(3.1) For the purposes of clause (3) (b), the financial interests of the sponsor include any lump sum payment, percentage of premium or other payment received by the sponsor from the insurer as a result of a person purchasing automobile insurance coverage through the plan.  O. Reg. 275/03, s. 8 (4).

(4) A person who collects premiums under a group marketing plan, other than an agent or broker, shall provide adequate administrative facilities for the collection of premiums and shall be deemed to be the agent of the insurer for the purpose of collecting premiums.  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 3.

(5) All premium funds received or receivable by a person under a group marketing plan, other than by an agent or broker, shall be deemed to be trust funds held for the benefit of the insurer.  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 3.

(6) A person who receives or is entitled to receive premium funds under a group marketing plan shall not assign, pledge, mortgage or in any way charge the funds.  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 3.

(7) An assignment, pledge, mortgage or other charge of premium funds contrary to subsection (6) is void.  O. Reg. 553/94, s. 3.

Public Adjusters — Statutory Accident Benefits (Section 398 of the Act)

18. A person who is authorized to provide legal services in Ontario pursuant to the Law Society Act is exempt from subsection 398 (1) of the Insurance Act in respect of a claim for benefits under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule.  O. Reg. 62/08, s. 1.

19. Revoked:  O. Reg. 62/08, s. 2.

Table 1 Revoked:  O. Reg. 36/10, s. 5.

Schedule
Dispute Resolution Expenses (Subsection 282 (11) of the Act)

1. The filing fees paid by the insured person when applying for arbitration may be awarded to the insured person.

2. The filing fees paid by the insured person or the insurer when appealing the order of an arbitrator or applying to vary or revoke an order may be awarded.

3. (1) The legal fees payable by the insured person or the insurer for the following matters may be awarded:

1. For all services performed before an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

2. For the preparation for an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

3. For attendance at an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

4. For services subsequent to an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

(2) The number of hours for which legal fees may be awarded shall be determined by the arbitrator, having regard to the criteria set out in subsection 12 (2) of this Regulation.

(3) The maximum amount that may be awarded for legal fees is the amount calculated using the hourly rates set out in the Dispute Resolution Practice Code published by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario, as it may be amended from time to time.

3.1 (1) The agent’s fees payable by the insured person or the insurer for the following matters may be awarded:

1. For the preparation for an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

2. For attendance at an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

3. For services subsequent to an arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

(2) The maximum amount that may be awarded for agent’s fees is the amount calculated using the hourly rates set out in the Dispute Resolution Practice Code published by the Financial Services Commission of Ontario, as it may be amended from time to time.

4. The amount of the following disbursements made by or on behalf of the insured person or the insurer may be awarded:

1. For long distance telephone, facsimile and other telecommunication charges.

2. For typing, printing and reproducing copies of documents.

3. For the delivery, by mail or courier, of items relating to the arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

4. For other out-of-pocket expenses incurred in furtherance of the arbitration, appeal, variation or revocation hearing.

5. Any applicable taxes paid in respect of the expenses referred to in this section.

5. (1) The amount of the following witness fees paid by or on behalf of the insured person or the insurer may be awarded:

1. For the attendance of witnesses, in accordance with subsection (2).

2. For the attendance of an expert witness who gives opinion evidence at the arbitration or hearing or whose attendance is necessary, in accordance with subsection (3).

3. For a report prepared by an expert, provided to the other parties to the arbitration or hearing and necessary for the conduct of the arbitration or hearing, in accordance with subsection (4).

(2) The maximum amount that may be awarded for the attendance of a witness is the amount of the attendance allowance for the witness that may be allowed under Rule 58.05 of the rules of court as a disbursement.

(3) The maximum amount that may be awarded for the attendance of an expert witness is $200 per hour of attendance, up to a maximum of $1,600 per day.

(4) The amount of the expenses paid by or on behalf of the insured person or the insurer to an expert witness for preparation for a hearing at which the witness testifies may be awarded, to a maximum of $500.

(5) The amount of the expenses paid by or on behalf of the insured person or the insurer to an expert for the preparation of a report may be awarded, to a maximum of $1,500.

(6) Despite subsection (5), the maximum amount that may be awarded in respect of expenses paid by or on behalf of the insured person or the insurer to a member of a designated body within the meaning of the Public Accounting Act, 2004 for the preparation of a report in connection with a claim for income replacement benefits is $2,500.

6. (1) The amount of the following expenses paid by or on behalf of the insured person, the insured person’s lawyer or agent, the insured person’s attendant, if one is required, or the insurer’s lawyer or agent may be awarded:

1. For travelling expenses, in accordance with subsection (2).

2. For overnight accommodation and meals, in accordance with subsection (3).

(2) The maximum amount of travelling expenses that may be awarded for a person,

(a) for an arbitration or a hearing that takes place in the municipality in which the person resides is the amount incurred by the person for each day of his or her necessary attendance at the arbitration or hearing;

(b) for an arbitration or a hearing that takes place outside the municipality in which the person resides and within 300 kilometres of his or her residence is the lesser of,

(i) 30 cents per kilometre for one return trip between the person’s residence and the place in which the arbitration or hearing takes place, or

(ii) the amount incurred by the person;

(c) for an arbitration or a hearing that takes place 300 or more kilometres from the person’s residence is the lesser of,

(i) the amount of the return economy airfare for the person plus 30 cents per kilometre for one return trip between his or her residence and the airport and for one return trip between the airport and the place of the arbitration or hearing, or

(ii) the amount incurred by the person.

(3) The maximum amount that may be awarded for overnight expenses and meals is $150 per night for each overnight stay required for the person.

7. There may be awarded to an insurer the total of all amounts in respect of a claim by an insured person that are included under section 4 of Ontario Regulation 11/01 (Assessment of Expenses and Expenditures) made under the Financial Services Commission of Ontario Act, 1997 in determining the amount of the insurer’s total assessment for arbitrations under section 282 of the Act, total assessment for appeals under section 283 of the Act or total assessment for applications under section 284 of the Act, if the insured person, on or after March 1, 2006,

(a) refused or failed to submit to an examination relating to the claim under section 42 of Ontario Regulation 403/96 (Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule — Accidents on or after November 1, 1996) made under the Act or under section 44 of Ontario Regulation 34/10 (Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule  —  Effective September 1, 2010) made under the Act; or

(b) refused or failed to provide any material relating to the claim that was required to be provided by subsection 42 (10) of Ontario Regulation 403/96 (Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule — Accidents on or after November 1, 1996), made under the Act, or by subsection 44 (9) of Ontario Regulation 34/10 (Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule — Effective September 1, 2010), made under the Act.

R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 664, Sched.; O. Reg. 464/96, s. 8; O. Reg. 301/98, s. 3; O. Reg. 548/05, s. 2; O. Reg. 36/10, ss. 6, 7; O. Reg. 291/10, s. 1; O. Reg. 222/15, ss. 3, 4.

Form 1 Revoked:  O. Reg. 780/93, s. 9.