As we began our journey in 2024, Injury Advocates remained steadfast in our mission: advocating for fair and balanced accident benefits that protect all Ontarians. This past year was one of action, progress, and growing momentum. Thanks to the collective efforts of healthcare and legal professionals, as well as the broader community, we made significant strides in addressing key challenges within Ontario’s auto insurance framework.

 

Achievements in 2024

In 2024, our efforts were primarily focused on addressing systemic inequities within the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) policies. By rallying professionals and engaging policymakers, we:

1. Supported and Influenced the Premier’s 2024 Budget: As stakeholders in the FSRA’s consultations, we advocated for changes that were incorporated into the Premier’s budget. Specific areas of focus included:
   • Form 1 Rates: Advocating for fair and sustainable compensation for caregivers.
   • Professional Services Guideline: Seeking adjustments to reflect current economic realities and ensure sustainability for service providers.
   • Minor Injury Guideline: Highlighting the need for nuanced approaches that better serve injured individuals.
   • HCAI System Enhancements: Proposing technological updates to streamline processes for both providers and claimants.
2. Strengthened Collaboration Among Stakeholders: We collaborated with healthcare professionals, legal experts, and policymakers through meetings, discussions, and the consultation process. These initiatives fostered a shared understanding of the challenges within the current system and laid the groundwork for building stronger rapport and collaboration with the regulatory body.
3. Amplified Consumer Voices: Recognizing that consumer stories are at the heart of our work, we shared them with the regulatory body to provide deeper insight into the challenges consumers face and to emphasize the urgency of implementing the proposed changes.

 

Looking Ahead to 2025

While 2024 was a year of building foundations, 2025 will be about transformation. Injury Advocates is committed to turning dialogue into tangible results. Here’s what lies ahead:

1. Policy Implementation and Monitoring: We will work with the government and FSRA to continue to advocate for these changes and ensure they are implemented effectively.
2. Expanding Advocacy Efforts: We will continue to advocate for a broad range of issues to ensure that all Ontarians receive fair and balanced support within the auto insurance framework.
3. Advancing Fair Auto Insurance Products: A key focus for 2025 will be promoting the development of auto insurance products that are not only economical but also offer adequate protection. This includes pushing for:
   • Simplified claim processes.
   • Enhanced benefits for those with catastrophic injuries.
   • Improved liability coverage for all consumers.
4. Empowering Professionals and Consumers: We will deepen our collaboration with healthcare and legal professionals while actively supporting the initiatives of other advocates and advocacy groups to amplify our shared mission and achieve meaningful progress.

 

Call to Action

Injury Advocates is only as strong as the community behind it. As we embark on this pivotal year, we invite you to join us in our mission. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, legal expert, or concerned citizen, your voice matters. Together, we can create an auto insurance system that truly serves the people of Ontario.

Let’s make 2025 a year of meaningful change. Thank you for standing with us as we continue to fight for fairness, accountability, and justice.