No-Fault Benefits 101 in Ontario: A Clear Guide for Auto Accident Victims

September 04, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve been in an auto collision in Ontario, you likely have questions about no-fault benefits under the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS). These benefits provide financial and medical support to accident victims, regardless of who caused the crash. Understanding what’s available, how to claim it, and what pitfalls to avoid can make a meaningful difference in your recovery.

What are SABS and what benefits exist?

In Ontario, no-fault benefits are contained in the SABS, part of the Insurance Act. The program is designed to help you when injuries from a car crash disrupt your health and finances. Key benefit categories include medical and rehabilitation benefits, attendant care, home maintenance (housekeeping) benefits, and income replacement benefits for those who lost earnings due to the crash. There are also caregiver and benefit options for those who require ongoing assistance.

Medical and rehabilitation benefits help cover physicians, specialists, physical therapy, occupational therapy, chiropractic care, and other approved treatments. Attendant care benefits provide compensation for personal care assistance if your injuries limit your ability to perform daily tasks. Housekeeping benefits assist with routine home duties you’re unable to handle. Income replacement benefits (and related wage-related supports) aim to replace part of the income you’ve lost due to your injuries.

How to file and timelines

Claims are initiated with your auto insurer. It’s critical to notify your insurer promptly, provide complete medical documentation, and keep copies of all correspondence. Timelines for submitting forms and supporting documents can be strict, and missed deadlines can affect eligibility or the level of benefits you receive. From the outset, keep a well-organised file of medical records, invoices, and correspondence with your insurer.

Common pitfalls

Insurers sometimes challenge medical necessity, question the reasonableness of treatments, or deny claims for lack of documentation. Ambiguities in treatment plans or disagreements about pre-authorisation can stall a claim. A frequent issue is miscommunication about what benefits are available, how long they last, or when benefits end. That’s where a seasoned Ontario personal injury lawyer can add real value.

How our firm can help

Our Ontario team specialises in car accident personal injury claims. We review policies, interpret SABS language, and help you assemble compelling medical evidence. If benefits were delayed, underpaid, or denied, we guide you through reconsiderations and, if needed, appeals. We work with you to build a complete, well-documented claim package and make sure your recovery isn’t overshadowed by administrative hurdles.

Next steps

If you’ve been hurt in an Ontario auto accident and you’re navigating no-fault benefits, contact our team for a free case review. Our highly experienced personal injury lawyers will assess your case, explain your options, and outline a clear path to getting the benefits you’re owed. Don't fae your situation alone. Call us first for your free consultation.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.