ONTARIO OPT-OUTS
New auto insurance rules outlined in the 2024 budget report delivered by Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy list that while medical, rehabilitation and attendant car benefits will continue to be mandatory for drivers, all other parts of auto insurance will be optional.
The budget stipulates that auto insurance companies would be responsible first for medical and rehabilitation costs, even if other insurers also cover people. Specifically, regardless of the extent of the injuries sustained in a car crash, costs would have to be paid by auto insurers to help make sure insurers are paying for the people being covered.
This change, the province noted, would help reduce red tape for both patients and health-care providers. The new plans follow a separate opt-out that came into effect earlier this year when the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario removed the requirement for car owners to have Direct Compensation Property Damage coverage on their vehicles. However, while aspects of collision coverage may be optional, car owners will ultimately not be free to decline all coverage.
AN EXPANDED HUE-RIZON
Color Compass Corporation has announced the opening of its newest location in Oshawa, Ontario. According to a recent press release, “this expansion marks a significant milestone for the company as it solidifies its commitment to serving customers in the Greater Toronto Area and beyond.”
The new facility is located at 1155 Boundary Road, Oshawa, and will offer a comprehensive range of products and solutions, including automotive paint, coatings and related supplies with the goal of catering to the diverse needs of professionals in collision repair, automotive refinishing and industrial applications.
The press release further noted that “the new facility is strategically positioned to enhance accessibility and distribution for clients across the region. This move underscores Color Compass Corporation’s dedication to delivering exceptional products and services while fostering stronger connections within the local community.”
REMOVING RALLIES
According to reports by City News, the City of Vaughan, Ontario, is working with York Regional Police to prevent illegal car rallies with $10,000 fines. Specifically, city officials and York Regional Police have worked to prevent parking lots and other municipal spaces from being turned into illegal race tracks as these events, organized on social media, can put people at risk.
During a press conference as part of what has been dubbed “Operation Silent Night,” Mayor Steven Del Duea and York Police Chief Jim MacSween announced amendments to the city’s Special Events Bylaw and Noise Bylaw.
“The sheer size and scope of these rallies should be alarming to everyone and the dangerous behaviour that results is a matter of public safety. These groups are taking over parking lots, plazas and other public property,” MacSween originally reported to Irene Preklet and Patricia D’Cunha, City News. As a result, the city has changed its Special Events bylaw to have fines of up to $10,000.
Officials also stressed that they will not only be cracking down on people in vehicles, but also spectators and vehicle owners. The city also changed its Noise Bylaw “to prohibit anyone from emitting, causing or permitting noise from an unauthorized car rally,” with a maximum fine of $5,000.
These changes were approved by Vaughan City Council on March 26.
