ICBC moving to Enhanced Care May 1 - Our expert Jennifer Reeve discusses impacts

March 15, 2021

Jennifer Reeve is our Manager of BC Auto Sales at Western Financial Group. Putting customer care first has helped our team rank among the top 5 ICBC Autoplan brokers in British Columbia. From ongoing training to expanding digital service options, we’re the ICBC experts you need for life on the road.

What should I know about ICBC Autoplan car insurance?

ICBC is a Crown corporation owned by the Province of British Columbia. As the province’s public auto insurer, ICBC provides mandatory basic third-party liability coverage, which all drivers must purchase to legally operate a vehicle.

British Columbia is unique in that drivers visit an insurance broker or advisor not only to obtain their ICBC Autoplan insurance, but also to complete vehicle registration and licensing. In one visit, you can receive your licence plate, decal, and insurance policy.

Some of our offices also operate as motor vehicle licence offices, particularly in remote communities. In these locations, we issue and renew driver’s licences and administer written testing for Class L, N, and commercial Class 1 and 2 licences.

In B.C., your basic ICBC policy includes the mandatory $200,000 third-party liability required to operate a motor vehicle on a highway, with the option to increase coverage up to $5 million.

ICBC also offers 24-hour claims service at 1-800-910-ICBC. If you have questions or need guidance, our Western Financial Group and Western Coast teams are always here to help.

At renewal time, we review all your coverages to ensure you’re receiving every discount available — for example, if you’ve moved, changed vehicles, or adjusted how you drive. Our experts make sure you’re comfortable with your coverage and aware of any potential gaps.

Could you tell me more about your SKIP the LINE ICBC digital service form?

We’re excited about our “SKIP the LINE” digital ICBC service form, available on both the Western Financial Group and Western Coast Insurance Services websites.

This tool allows you to complete many ICBC transactions when and how it works best for you — including renewals, new policies, and vehicle ownership transfers. The form is easy to complete, and you can choose the branch you want to work with.

Once submitted, your request is sent directly to the selected branch so our team can assist you quickly. We also offer multiple options for receiving your decals — speak with our advisors for details.

ICBC is changing to Enhanced Care; what should I know?

All auto insurance policies in British Columbia transitioned to ICBC’s Enhanced Care program, which significantly improves care and medical benefits regardless of fault.

Under Enhanced Care, access to medical care and recovery benefits increased substantially — up to $7.5 million — benefiting drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists involved in motor vehicle collisions in B.C.

Your ICBC policy also provides coverage when travelling elsewhere in Canada and into the United States (Mexico excluded).

If you’re not at fault in a collision and your vehicle is damaged, Enhanced Care may cover repairs up to $200,000, subject to certain exclusions.

If you are partially at fault, you’ll need optional collision or comprehensive coverage to repair your own vehicle. If you choose not to purchase collision coverage, hit-and-run coverage is also available for incidents occurring on B.C. highways.

As this program was introduced, eligible refunds were issued by cheque or direct deposit. Our Western Financial Group and Western Coast advisors are happy to answer questions about Enhanced Care and how it affects your coverage.

How much could I save with Enhanced Care?

ICBC advised the Province of British Columbia that, on average, drivers could see premium reductions of approximately 20%. Actual savings vary based on factors such as location, vehicle type, and driver experience.

To estimate your potential savings or renewal cost, ICBC provides an online estimating tool. Our branch experts are also always available to review your policy and answer questions.

Why should I consider $5 million in liability coverage?

While the Enhanced Care policy includes $200,000 in third-party liability, drivers can still be sued for non-vehicle damage — such as striking a hydrant or building.

Additionally, if you travel outside British Columbia to a “tort” province, the right to sue for bodily injury still exists. For these reasons, we strongly recommend increasing your ICBC liability coverage to $5 million for added peace of mind.

What makes Western and Western Coast the right teams for ICBC Autoplan?

Western Financial Group is proud to rank among the top five ICBC brokers in British Columbia out of approximately 930 licensed brokers. Every one of our B.C. offices is authorized to sell ICBC Autoplan insurance.

All Autoplan employees complete extensive ICBC training. With dedicated training leads and knowledgeable program specialists, we ensure our teams stay current and informed.

Above all, we listen first. By understanding your needs, we tailor your policy and help ensure there are no gaps in coverage — so you can drive with confidence.