Imagine this: you’re driving in Ontario, following all the rules, paying for your insurance, and
being careful on the road. Then another driver hits you. What happens if their insurance doesn’t
actually cover the full cost of the damage?
This isn’t just some unlikely worst-case scenario. A lot of drivers in Ontario only carry the legal
minimum liability coverage, and that minimum is far too low when you think about what a
serious accident can actually cost.
Why the Minimum Isn’t Enough
By law, Ontario drivers only need $200,000 in liability coverage. On paper, that might sound like
plenty. In reality, it’s not much at all.
Picture being in a crash where you’re hospitalized for weeks, need surgery, and can’t work for
months. The bills stack up quickly: hospital fees, physical therapy, lost income, prescription
medication, even home renovations if your injuries affect your mobility.
It’s not unusual for the total cost of a major accident to reach hundreds of thousands, or even
millions. If the driver at fault only has $200,000 in coverage, that is the most their insurance
company will pay. Anything above that comes out of the driver’s own pocket, and most people
don’t have anywhere close to that kind of money.
The Coverage Most People Don’t Know About
This is where underinsured motorist coverage, called OPCF 44R in Ontario, becomes important.
It’s an optional addition to your auto policy that protects you if you’re injured by someone whose
insurance won’t fully cover your losses.
The problem is that many people in Ontario don’t know this option exists, or they think their
regular insurance already covers them. Unfortunately, most only realize the gap in coverage
after they’ve been in an accident and are facing the financial fallout.
Why These Claims Can Be Complicated
If you are hurt by an underinsured driver, you can make a claim, but it’s rarely simple.
- You have to show that the other driver’s coverage is too low. That means getting details
about their insurance and proving the real cost of your injuries, which can take time to
calculate. - Insurance companies often push back. They may argue that some of your expenses
aren’t necessary, or that your injuries aren’t as serious as you claim. - Strict deadlines apply. If you don’t act quickly, you could lose your right to compensation
altogether.
What to Do If You Think the Other Driver Is Underinsured
- Get their insurance details immediately. Don’t assume you’ll automatically get the
information later. If police are at the scene, they’ll have it, but make sure you also have
your own copy. - Track all expenses. Save receipts for medical bills, prescriptions, transportation, and
anything else related to the accident. These records help prove your losses. - Get complete medical evaluations. Do not settle until you know how your injuries will
affect you long-term. Some health issues only become clear months after the accident. - Talk to a lawyer before your insurance company. Even though your insurer seems
like they’re on your side, their goal is still to save money. A lawyer can protect your rights
and prevent you from making statements that weaken your claim. - Review your policy now. Even if you’ve never been in an accident, check if you already
have OPCF 44R coverage. If you don’t, think about adding it.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Underinsured driver cases often involve two insurance companies: the at-fault driver’s and your
own. Neither wants to pay more than they absolutely have to.
Lawyers familiar with these claims know how to show the full extent of your losses and
challenge the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. Acting quickly makes it easier to gather
evidence, stay within deadlines, and protect your rights.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident and you’re worried the other driver doesn’t have enough
insurance, don’t wait until the financial stress builds up. The sooner you take action, the
stronger your case will be. Call us today so we can help secure your claim and make sure
you’re protected.
