Province Launches Automobile Insurance Consultation

The Province is asking for feedback on automobile insurance to help make sure that appropriate, affordable and stable coverage is available in Nova Scotia.

Nova Scotia’s Office of the Superintendent of Insurance launched a public consultation today, December 5, as part of a legislated review of automobile insurance. The office has identified options to potentially stabilize the cost of insurance, enhance treatment coverage and bring Nova Scotia offerings in line with those in other provinces.

“Automobile insurance impacts most Nova Scotians, as well as businesses, non-profits, and government agencies,” said Allan MacMaster, Minister of Finance and Treasury Board. “The Office of the Superintendent of Insurance has identified options that could improve automobile insurance in our province. I encourage everyone to take the time to participate and ensure your views are heard. I look forward to seeing the recommendations the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance puts forward to government.”

Key changes under consideration include:

• updating the definition of “minor injury”
• reducing the cap on cash awards for pain and suffering from minor injuries
• enhancing coverage to help people who sustain injuries
• making the automobile insurance policy the first priority payor (Section B).

These proposals take into account recent changes in other provinces and concerns that consumers have raised with the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance. No decisions have been made by the government and feedback received through this consultation will inform next steps.

The proposed changes are outlined in a discussion paper, which includes questions that may assist in providing feedback. The paper and information on providing feedback are at: https://novascotia.ca/automobile-insurance-review-engagement

The deadline for comment is February 3.

Quick Facts:

• every automobile used on Nova Scotia’s public roadways must be insured
• automobile insurance in Nova Scotia is regulated through the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance
• the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board approves rate filings and risk classification systems by automobile insurers