OPCF 44R, known as the Family Protection Coverage endorsement, is one of the most valuable optional coverages available to Ontario drivers. It provides additional protection when you or your family members are injured by an at-fault driver who doesn't have adequate insurance. Understanding this coverage could make a significant difference if you're ever in a serious accident.
What Is OPCF 44R?
OPCF stands for Ontario Policy Change Form—standardized endorsements that can be added to your auto insurance policy. The "44R" is the specific form number for Family Protection Coverage.
In simple terms, OPCF 44R protects you when:
- You're injured by an at-fault driver who has inadequate insurance
- The at-fault driver's liability limits aren't enough to cover your injuries
- You need compensation beyond what the at-fault driver's policy can provide
How OPCF 44R Works
Here's a scenario that illustrates why this coverage matters:
Without OPCF 44R:
- You're seriously injured by an at-fault driver
- Your injuries and losses total $500,000
- The at-fault driver only has $200,000 in liability coverage (the legal minimum)
- You can only recover $200,000 from their insurance
- You're left $300,000 short, with limited options to recover the rest
With OPCF 44R:
- Same accident, same $500,000 in damages
- At-fault driver's insurance pays their $200,000 limit
- Your OPCF 44R coverage kicks in
- Your insurer pays the difference, up to your own liability limit
- If you have $1,000,000 coverage, you could recover the full $500,000
Who Is Covered Under OPCF 44R?
The "Family Protection" name indicates who benefits from this coverage:
- You (the named insured)
- Your spouse
- Relatives who live with you
- Dependents
Coverage applies when any of these individuals are injured by an underinsured motorist, whether they're in your vehicle, another vehicle, or even as a pedestrian.
When Does OPCF 44R Apply?
OPCF 44R provides coverage in situations involving:
Underinsured Motorists
When the at-fault driver has insurance, but their limits aren't high enough to cover your losses. This is the most common scenario where OPCF 44R helps.
Unidentified Motorists
Hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Your uninsured motorist coverage provides some protection, but OPCF 44R can supplement this.
Out-of-Province Accidents
When you're injured in another province or state by a driver with inadequate coverage.
What OPCF 44R Covers
This endorsement can provide compensation for:
- Pain and suffering: Beyond what the at-fault driver's insurance pays
- Income loss: Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Medical expenses: Care costs beyond accident benefits
- Future care costs: Long-term care needs from serious injuries
- Family law claims: Loss of care, guidance, and companionship claims by family members
Why OPCF 44R Is Important in Ontario
Several factors make this coverage particularly valuable:
Many Drivers Carry Minimum Insurance
While $1 million or more in liability is recommended, many Ontario drivers only carry the $200,000 minimum. If you're seriously injured by one of these drivers, their coverage may be grossly inadequate.
Serious Injuries Are Expensive
A catastrophic injury can result in millions of dollars in medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Even drivers with $1 million in coverage might not have enough for a severe accident.
You Can't Control Other Drivers
You can carry excellent coverage, but you have no control over how much insurance other drivers have. OPCF 44R protects you from their choices.
How Much Does OPCF 44R Cost?
OPCF 44R is relatively inexpensive, especially considering the protection it provides. Costs vary by insurer but are typically modest compared to other coverages.
The coverage limit matches your own liability limit, so if you have $1 million in liability coverage, you have $1 million in OPCF 44R coverage.
How to Get OPCF 44R
To add OPCF 44R to your policy:
- Contact your insurance company or broker
- Request the OPCF 44R endorsement
- It will be added to your policy with a small premium increase
Most insurers offer this coverage, though not all actively promote it. You may need to specifically ask for it.
Related Coverages to Consider
OPCF 44R works alongside other coverages:
- Higher liability limits: Since OPCF 44R matches your liability limit, higher limits mean more protection
- Increased accident benefits: Enhances your no-fault coverage
- Uninsured motorist coverage: Mandatory coverage for uninsured drivers (OPCF 44R supplements this)
Should You Get OPCF 44R?
For most Ontario drivers, OPCF 44R is a wise investment because:
- The cost is low relative to the protection
- You have no control over how much coverage other drivers carry
- A serious accident with an underinsured driver could be financially devastating
- It protects your entire family
Consider OPCF 44R essential coverage, especially if you or your family members spend significant time on Ontario roads.
When comparing auto insurance quotes, ask specifically about OPCF 44R and its cost. The small additional premium provides substantial peace of mind.