ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — The provincial government is reminding residents that several changes to the Automobile Insurance Act and associated regulations will come into effect as of on New Year's Day.
The changes are intended to help stabilize insurance rates while enhancing consumer protection.
Most notable, when involved in an incident where they are not at fault, motorists will now deal directly with their own insurance company. It's thought this will lead to a "faster resolution of the claim and a more consumer-friendly experience."
And, the deductible will double from $2,500 to $5,000 for pain and suffering awards.
Other changes effective Jan. 1, 2020 include:
- The claim adjustment and settlement process for bodily injury claims will be streamlined and injured persons will be required to notify the insurer of their intention to commence an action within 120 days;
- Full filings will be required every three years, and there will be a mechanism for quick approval of rates where changes are no more than three per cent in a given year, and no more than six per cent cumulatively over three years;
- Fleet rated risks will be outside the Board of Commissioners of Public Utilities (PUB) process, allowing taxi companies and others to negotiate their rates with willing insurers;
- Auto insurance will be reviewed at least every five years;
- Insurers will be permitted to offer telematics, which is technology capable of collecting information about where, how and when vehicles are driven, and drivers will have the option to participate in any telematics program offered by their insurer; and,
- Insurers will be required to provide a discount for winter tires.
