Motor Vehicle Accidents in Ontario and OCFs : Auto Insurance Claims Forms
When someone is injured in a motor vehicle accident, there are two possible actions. The injured person may sue the at-fault driver and may at the same time apply for Accident Benefits (AB). ABs are the benefits included in any motor vehicle insurance policy; eligibility is not contingent on being at-fault for the accident. The basic benefits are Medical and Rehabilitation Benefits, Income Replacement Benefits, as well as Death and Funeral expenses. More extensive insurance policies may have higher coverage as well as Caregiver Benefits and Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Benefits. When an insurance company is notified of a motor vehicle accident, they will send an information package with Auto Insurance Claims Forms (OCFs) to their insured.
The basic OCF application package should include an OCF-1: Application for Accident Benefits. This is a general form that asks for all of the particulars regarding your personal circumstances before and after your accident, as well as your legal representation. You have to fill in this form and then send it within 30 days receipt of this package. The other form is an OCF-2: Employer’s Confirmation Form. This form is used by your insurance company to determine whether you are eligible for Income Replacement Benefits (IRB). IRBs are a type of salary replacement, where a person suffers from a complete inability to carry on a normal life as a result of the accident. The amount of this replacement is flexible; basic insurance policies allow for 70% of your pre-accident salary, up to a maximum of $400 per week. Your employer is the one who fills out most of this form; therefore you need to give your employer authorization to disclose your personal information. Another form is called the OCF-3: Disability Certificate. This is the form that certifies that you suffer from a disability. It is to be filled out by your health practitioner (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, psychologist, chiropractor, nurse practitioner, doctor, etc.) within 10 business days of the date on your application (see OCF-1). You need to give your health practitioner authorization to disclose details regarding your medical condition. (Subtitle):
You can receive Accident Benefits if you are injured in a motor vehicle accident and if the other driver is at fault, you can pursue them for damages and receive compensation.
Our Ottawa car accident lawyers are specifically trained to help with Accident Benefits claims and tort claims against the at fault drivers.
If you or someone you care about was injured in an accident, please contact one of our lawyers for a free consultation. We work on a no-fee-until-you-win basis. Call us at 613-315-4878.