Auto Insurance
Following a serious injury from a motor vehicle accident (MVA), expenses may arise for unfunded rehabilitative therapy, assistive devices, medications, housing and vehicle modifications, vocational retraining, and nursing or attendant care. The Association of Ontario Midwives Benefits Trust or other group medical coverage may cover some of these extended health care expenses, however, the costs may far exceed the benefits provided.
As of June 2016, the standard maximum amount for medical, rehabilitation and attendant care expenses is $65,000 or a maximum of $1,000,000 for catastrophic injuries. Since basic auto insurance may not provide adequate coverage for all types of business use, optional benefits are available to provide additional coverage for a minimal cost. Refer to the Financial Services Commission of Ontario for up to date information on automobile insurance.
Consider the following when starting practice or renewing auto insurance:
- Confirm that the automobile insurer has up-to-date and current information on the vehicle’s usage, including that it is used for work, equipment carried and the approximate mileage per year. There may be added liability if a vehicle is used to transport clients, doing so should be disclosed to ensure adequate coverage in the event of a claim.
- Verify that the policy has adequate coverage in the event of a serious MVA. For example, many insurers offer additional optional coverage for medical and rehabilitation expenses, attendant care, and third party liability coverage; and optional add-on increased income replacement, housekeeping and home maintenance benefits. Midwives are eligible for discounted insurance through HUB International, who can be reached at 1-877-558-3091.
- Confirm whether either the practice’s business insurance (i.e. clinic insurance) or the home or automobile insurance will cover the replacement cost of any equipment stolen from a midwives’ car.