Public engagement starts today, March 5, 2018, regarding changes to ICBC’s auto insurance system that will make drivers more accountable for their decisions and driving behaviours.

Public feedback will help design an improved auto insurance rating system for British Columbians.

“Drivers have been saying for years that the system would be more fair if low-risk drivers paid less for their vehicle insurance, while high-risk drivers paid more,” said Attorney General David Eby. “This engagement is one way government is giving drivers the power to shape ICBC and restore public confidence in our public insurer.”

British Columbians can provide feedback on how ICBC should use claims and driver experience in determining basic insurance premiums, giving greater discounts to low-risk drivers and balancing basic insurance prices to reflect increased risk with driver behaviour or location.

“Government wants to hear the voices of everyone during this engagement,” said Eby. “I hope British Columbia drivers will take some time to learn about these proposals and let us know their opinions.”

The public engagement period closes April 5, 2018, at 4 p.m. (Pacific time).

Eby also noted that, as of March 1, 2018, ICBC’s Driver Risk Premium program (DRP) increased penalties for drivers using electronic devices while driving.

“We are committed to reducing high-risk behaviours that put people in danger,” said Eby. “This increased premium cost puts distracted driving on par with impaired driving and excessive speeding. We need distracted drivers to put down their phones and drive.”

Quick Facts:

• This engagement addresses changes to ICBC’s auto insurance rating system, which is 30 years old and has not been updated in 10 years.
• Drivers who put people at risk by using electronic devices while driving face stiffer financial penalties with changes to ICBC’s DRP program, effective March 1, 2018.
  • Drivers with two convictions for the use of electronic devices while driving over a three-year period could pay as much as $2,000 in penalties — an increase of $740 — in addition to their regular vehicle insurance premium.

Learn More:

ICBC rate fairness public engagement: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/ratefairness/

Attorney General David Eby’s video on public engagement launch: https://youtu.be/bs9tqKY-YyA